⚡ How Backorders Work
When a domain expires and isn't renewed, it eventually "drops" back to the registry. Backorder services use automated systems to register the domain the moment it becomes available—often within milliseconds of the drop.
Backorder Service Comparison
| Service | Backorder Fee | Auction Model | Catch Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| DropCatch | $59 (if won) | Public auction if multiple backorders | High |
| SnapNames | $69+ (if won) | Pre-release auction | High |
| NameJet | $69+ (if won) | Pre-release + public auction | High |
| GoDaddy Auctions | $24.99 membership | Closeout auction | Medium |
| Dynadot | $0 + reg fee | First-come if single backorder | Medium |
| NameCheap | $0 + reg fee | First-come | Lower |
The Domain Drop Timeline
Expiration Date
Domain expires, enters grace period (0-45 days)
Redemption Period
Original owner can still renew (~30 days, costs $80-200)
Pending Delete
5-day countdown, domain locked, can't be renewed
Drop!
Domain released, backorder services race to catch it
Strategy: Maximize Your Chances
✓ Place Multiple Backorders
Use 2-3 services for important domains. They only charge if they win, so it's risk-free diversification.
✓ Set a Budget for Auctions
If multiple people backorder, you'll bid in an auction. Know your max before it starts.
⚠️ Consider Direct Outreach
Sometimes it's cheaper to contact the current owner and buy it directly than to compete in a drop auction.
What Affects Catch Rate
Higher Catch Rate
- • Service with multiple registrar connections
- • Faster infrastructure/lower latency
- • More domain drop experience
- • Premium/paid backorder services
Lower Catch Rate
- • Free backorder services
- • Single-registrar services
- • Manual registration attempts
- • Highly competitive domains
Red Flags to Avoid
- 🚩 Guaranteed catch: No service can guarantee catching a competitive domain
- 🚩 Upfront non-refundable fees: Legitimate services charge only if they win
- 🚩 Unrealistic success claims: Even the best services have ~30-50% catch rates on competitive names
Our Recommendation
For valuable domains, use DropCatch + NameJet together. Both have high catch rates and only charge if they win.
For less competitive domains, Dynadot or GoDaddy's backorder tools may be enough—and are cheaper.