How Domain Backorders Work- And Why You Should Use One
Have you ever come across the perfect domain name for your website, only to find that it’s already taken? It’s frustrating, especially when that name matches your brand, blog, or business idea. But what if there was still a chance to get it? That’s where domain backordering comes in.
In this article, we’ll explore what a domain backorder is, how it works, and how you can place one the right way. Whether you’re new to the online world or an experienced digital entrepreneur, this guide will make the concept clear and easy to follow.
Table of Contents
What Is a Domain Backorder?
A domain backorder is a service that allows you to attempt to register a domain name once it becomes available, meaning, if the current owner fails to renew it, you’ll get a chance to claim it.
Think of it as putting your name on a waitlist for a domain that’s currently taken. If the owner doesn’t renew the domain when it expires, the backorder service tries to register it on your behalf the moment it’s released.
It’s a smart way to get a desirable domain without paying thousands of dollars in domain auctions or dealing with domain squatters (people who register domains just to resell them at higher prices).
Why Domains Expire
Before understanding how backorders work, it’s useful to know why and how domains expire.
When someone registers a domain, they usually pay for it annually. If they forget to renew it or decide they no longer need it, the domain goes through the following stages:
- Expiration (Day 0): The domain registration expires if not renewed by the due date.
- Grace Period (0-30 days): The owner can still renew the domain without extra charges.
- Redemption Period (30-60 days): The owner can still get the domain back, but with an extra fee.
- Pending Deletion (60-75 days): The domain is about to be deleted from the registry. No one, including the owner, can renew it.
- Released to Public (Around Day 75): The domain becomes publicly available for registration again.
A backorder service watches these stages closely and attempts to grab the domain the moment it becomes available.
How Does a Domain Backorder Work?
When you place a backorder, you’re essentially hiring a registrar (or a specialized company) to monitor a domain and try to register it for you as soon as it drops.
Here’s a simple breakdown of how it works:
- Choose a Backorder Service: You find a company that offers domain backordering (e.g., GoDaddy, NameJet, SnapNames).
- Search for the Domain: You search for the domain you want and see if it’s eligible for backordering.
- Place a Backorder Request: You reserve a backorder on the domain. Some services charge upfront, while others only charge if they successfully get the domain for you.
- Wait for Expiry: The service monitors the domain’s status. If the owner doesn’t renew it, the domain goes into the release stage.
- Attempt to Register the Domain: When the domain becomes available, the backorder service tries to register it for you, often using fast automated systems.
- Get the Domain or Notified of Failure: If the service successfully grabs it, the domain is added to your account. If not (maybe someone else placed a backorder earlier or won in an auction), you’ll be notified.
What Happens If Multiple People Backorder the Same Domain?
If multiple people place a backorder on the same domain using the same service, the service usually holds a private auction. The domain goes to the highest bidder among the backorderers.
If multiple people use different services (like one person uses GoDaddy, another uses NameJet), it becomes a race—whichever service has faster access or better timing might get the domain first.
This is why it’s often recommended to use more than one backorder service if the domain is highly valuable to you.
Benefits of Using a Domain Backorder
- Affordable Alternative: It’s usually cheaper than buying from a reseller or domain auction.
- No Need for Constant Monitoring: The backorder service does the tracking for you.
- Better Chance at Premium Domains: You might get a valuable name without fighting over it in a public marketplace.
- No Cost if Unsuccessful (with some services): Some companies only charge you if they secure the domain.
Risks and Limitations
While domain backorders are helpful, they’re not guaranteed. Here are some limitations:
- No Guarantee: If the current owner renews the domain or someone else backorders it first, you might not get it.
- Possible Auction: If others also backorder the domain, you may have to compete in an auction.
- Cost May Increase: Though initial backorder fees are low, auctions can get expensive.
- Domain May Never Expire: If the owner keeps renewing it, the domain might never become available.
How to Properly Place a Domain Backorder – Step-by-Step
Here’s a clear guide to placing a domain backorder correctly:
Step 1: Choose a Reputable Backorder Service
Popular options include:
Compare prices, success rates, and auction policies.
Step 2: Search for Your Desired Domain
Use the service’s search tool to see if your desired domain is taken and eligible for backorder.
Step 3: Check Expiration and Drop Dates
Some tools can give you details about when the domain is set to expire and the likelihood of it dropping soon.
Step 4: Place the Backorder
Follow the service’s instructions to backorder the domain. You may need to create an account and pay a fee.
Step 5: Wait and Monitor
The service will monitor the domain’s status. You may also get updates via email.
Step 6: Participate in Auction (if required)
If multiple users place a backorder, prepare to bid in an auction if you’re still interested.
Step 7: Register and Secure the Domain
If you win, make sure to:
- Pay any final fees
- Lock the domain
- Set up auto-renew to avoid losing it in the future
Tips for Success
- Backorder Early: Don’t wait until the last minute. Placing a backorder earlier increases your chances.
- Use Multiple Services: If it’s a high-value domain, use 2-3 backorder services for better coverage.
- Register Quickly if Available: If you spot a domain that’s dropped and available, don’t delay—register it immediately.
- Do Domain Research: Check domain history using tools like Whois Lookup or Wayback Machine to avoid domains with spammy pasts.
Final Thoughts
A domain backorder is a smart tool for grabbing domain names that are currently unavailable. While it’s not a guarantee, it gives you a better chance of securing a name you truly want, without spending a fortune.
By understanding how backorders work and placing them properly through trusted services, you increase your chances of building a strong online identity with the perfect domain.
So, if there’s a domain you’ve been dreaming of, don’t give up just yet. Put in a backorder and let the system work for you!
I hope you enjoyed reading this article!
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