How to migrate to Namecheap
Moving an existing site to Namecheap — what they handle for you, what you'll do yourself, and the safe order to do it in.
Free migration not advertised
Control panel: cPanel
Support during your move: 24/7 live chat, ticket
Who This Migration Fits
Namecheap’s Stellar shared hosting ($1.98/mo intro, $4.48 renewal) suits small sites prioritizing cost over hand-holding. With 20GB storage and a 30-day refund window, it’s a low-risk switch for static sites or lightweight CMS installs. The 100% uptime track (30d/90d/365d) suggests reliability, but Phoenix/UK datacenters limit geo-options.
Pre-Migration Prep
- Back up everything — Namecheap doesn’t advertise free migrations, so you’re moving files/databases manually.
- Lower DNS TTL to 300 seconds (5 mins) at least 24h before cutover to minimize downtime.
- Note current server configs (PHP version, .htaccess rules) — Stellar’s shared environment may differ.
The Move
- Upload files via FTP/cPanel (if migrating from another cPanel host, use Backup Wizard).
- Export/import databases — use phpMyAdmin or command line.
- Test on temp URL (e.g.,
IP/~username) before DNS changes. Namecheap’s 24/7 live chat can troubleshoot uploads or SSL setup (free SSL included).
Go Live
- Update DNS at your registrar (A record to Namecheap’s IP).
- Monitor for 48h — Stellar’s 94ms TFB and 257ms fully loaded time (desktop) are decent for shared hosting, but check for regional latency.
- Cancel old host only after confirming all traffic routes correctly.
No magic — just methodical moves. The 56% intro discount helps, but remember: renewal jumps 126%.