📋 Context: Squarespace + Google Domains
Squarespace acquired Google Domains in 2023-2024. If you originally registered with Google Domains, your domain is now at Squarespace. This guide covers transferring from either.
Two Options: Where to Transfer
Option A: Transfer to WordPress.com
If you're using WordPress.com (hosted).
- ✓ Integrated with WordPress dashboard
- ✓ Automatic SSL
- ✗ Higher renewal prices (~$18-22/yr)
- ✗ Only works with WordPress.com
Option B: Transfer to a Registrar
Cloudflare, Porkbun, Namecheap, etc.
- ✓ Lower prices ($10-12/yr)
- ✓ Works with any host
- ✓ More control
- ✗ Manage domain separately
Recommendation: Transfer to a dedicated registrar (Option B) for flexibility and lower costs. Then point DNS to your WordPress host.
Step 1: Unlock Your Domain at Squarespace
- Log into your Squarespace account
- Go to Settings → Domains
- Click on your domain name
- Find "Transfer" or "Transfer Away" section
- Click "Unlock" or "Prepare for Transfer"
- Confirm the unlock
⚠️ Note: Since the Google Domains migration, some users report Squarespace taking up to 24 hours to process unlock requests. Be patient.
Step 2: Get Your Authorization Code
- In the same Transfer section
- Click "Get Authorization Code" or "Get Transfer Code"
- Squarespace will email the code to your account email
- Check your inbox (may take a few minutes to a few hours)
Former Google Domains users: the interface is different than what you remember. Look for "Transfer" options in domain settings.
Step 3: Initiate Transfer at New Registrar
Go to your chosen registrar and start the transfer:
- Enter your domain name
- Paste your authorization code
- Complete payment
Step 4: Approve the Transfer
- 📧 Check for email from Squarespace asking to approve/deny
- 📧 Click approve to speed up the transfer
- 📧 If you don't respond, transfer auto-completes in 5 days
Step 5: Point Domain to WordPress Host
Once the transfer completes, configure DNS for your WordPress host:
Common WordPress Host DNS Settings
- SiteGround: ns1.siteground.net, ns2.siteground.net
- Bluehost: ns1.bluehost.com, ns2.bluehost.com
- WP Engine: Use A record pointing to your server IP
- Cloudways: Use A record pointing to your server IP
- WordPress.com: ns1.wordpress.com, ns2.wordpress.com
Check your host's documentation for exact nameservers or IP addresses.
Alternative: Point Without Transferring
If you want to keep registration at Squarespace but use WordPress hosting:
- In Squarespace, go to Settings → Domains → DNS Settings
- Either change nameservers to your host's nameservers
- Or add A record pointing to your WordPress host's IP
- Add CNAME for www pointing to your host
This is faster (no transfer wait) but you'll keep paying Squarespace's renewal rates.
Escaping the Google Domains Migration?
Many former Google Domains users are unhappy with Squarespace's higher prices and different interface. Transferring to Cloudflare or Porkbun can save you $8-10/year and give you a cleaner experience.
Compare Registrar Prices →