What Is an Intra-RIPE IPv4 Transfer?
An intra-RIPE transfer (also known as a RIPE-to-RIPE transfer) is the process of moving IPv4 address space from one RIPE NCC member to another within the same registry region. This is governed by RIPE Policy ripe-713.
Requirements
Before initiating a transfer, both parties must meet these requirements:
For the Seller (Source Holder)
- Must be a RIPE NCC member (LIR) or have a sponsoring LIR
- Must be the registered holder of the IP addresses
- IP addresses must not be under any dispute or lien
- Must comply with the 24-month holding period (addresses received via transfer cannot be re-transferred for 24 months)
For the Buyer (Receiving Party)
- Must be a RIPE NCC member (LIR) or have a sponsoring LIR
- No needs assessment required (unlike ARIN)
- Must have a valid organization object in the RIPE Database
Step-by-Step Transfer Process
Step 1: Agreement Between Parties
Buyer and seller agree on terms including price, payment method, and timeline. A formal transfer agreement should be signed covering all legal aspects.
Step 2: Payment and Escrow
The buyer deposits funds into escrow or makes payment according to the agreed terms. Using escrow protects both parties during the transfer process.
Step 3: Initiate Transfer at RIPE NCC
Either the seller or the buyer (or their broker) initiates the transfer through the RIPE NCC LIR Portal:
- Log in to the RIPE NCC Portal
- Navigate to Resources → Transfer
- Select the IP prefix to transfer
- Enter the receiving organization's details
- Submit the transfer request
Step 4: RIPE NCC Verification
RIPE NCC reviews the transfer request. They verify:
- Both parties are eligible
- The source holder has the right to transfer
- The 24-month holding period has been met (if applicable)
- All documentation is in order
Step 5: Confirmation and Completion
Both parties receive confirmation emails from RIPE NCC. Upon approval:
- The RIPE Database is updated to reflect the new holder
- The receiving party can now manage the addresses
- Escrow funds are released to the seller
Timeline
A standard RIPE intra-RIR transfer typically takes:
- Simple transfers (PI/PA): 5-10 business days
- Legacy transfers: 5-15 business days (may require additional documentation)
- Transfers involving LIR changes: 7-15 business days
Common Pitfalls
- 24-month holding period: Addresses received via transfer cannot be re-transferred for 24 months. Verify the seller's holding period compliance.
- Maintainer authentication: Ensure the correct RIPE Access account is linked to the organization's maintainer object
- Incomplete documentation: Have all organizational details (legal name, registration number, address) ready before starting
- ROA cleanup: The seller should remove existing ROAs before the transfer, and the buyer should create new ones after
Costs Involved
- RIPE NCC transfer fee: No separate transfer fee charged by RIPE NCC
- IPv4 market price: Current market rates apply (see our marketplace)
- Platform commission: Varies by broker/marketplace
Ready to transfer? Use our Transfer Contract Generator to create your agreement, then browse available blocks on our marketplace.