IPv4 Transfer Process — Complete Step-by-Step Guide
The IPv4 transfer process involves transferring IP address ownership between organizations through their Regional Internet Registry (RIR). The process typically takes 1–4 weeks depending on the RIR. ipv4.center manages the entire transfer process end-to-end, handling contracts, due diligence, and RIR communication.
Transfer Timeline by RIR Region
Each Regional Internet Registry has its own transfer policies, timelines, and requirements
| RIR | Timeline | Key Requirements |
|---|---|---|
RIPE NCC | 1–2 weeks | LIR membership, Org ID, recent registration papers |
ARIN | 2–4 weeks | ARIN account, needs-based justification |
APNIC | 2–3 weeks | APNIC membership |
LACNIC | Intra: 3–5 weeks, Inter: 4–8 months | LACNIC membership |
AFRINIC | 3–5 weeks (intra-RIR only) | AFRINIC membership. No inter-RIR transfers available. |
Step-by-Step Transfer Process
How ipv4.center manages your IPv4 transfer from start to finish
Step 1: Due Diligence & Verification
The IPv4 block is screened for blacklist entries, BGP routing history, and ownership legitimacy through official RIR WHOIS records. Both buyer and seller undergo KYC verification.
Step 2: Buyer-Seller Agreement
Both parties agree on price, terms, and timeline. A legally binding purchase agreement is prepared and signed by both organizations.
Step 3: Escrow Payment
The buyer deposits funds into a secure escrow account. Payment is held until the RIR transfer is officially confirmed — protecting both parties.
Step 4: Transfer Agreement & Documentation
A Transfer Agreement is prepared and signed by both parties. Required documents include company registration papers, authorized signatory ID, and RIR membership details.
Step 5: RIR Transfer Submission
The transfer request is submitted to the relevant RIR. Our team manages all communication with the registry, handles any follow-up requests, and monitors processing status.
Step 6: Transfer Confirmation & Payment Release
Once the RIR confirms the transfer and updates the registration, escrow funds are released to the seller. The buyer gains full ownership of the IPv4 block.
Required Documents for IPv4 Transfer
Prepare these documents to ensure a smooth and fast transfer process
- Company registration certificate (recent, within 3 months for RIPE)
- Government-issued ID of the authorized signatory
- Active RIR membership or sponsoring LIR details
- Proof of IPv4 address allocation (for sellers)
- Network justification plan (for buyers, required by most RIRs)
- Authorization letter on company letterhead
- Tax registration certificate
- Signed Transfer Agreement between buyer and seller
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about the IPv4 transfer process
IPv4 transfer timelines vary by RIR. RIPE NCC transfers are the fastest at 1–2 weeks (no transfer fee). ARIN transfers typically take 2–4 weeks due to needs-based justification requirements. APNIC averages 2–3 weeks. LACNIC intra-RIR transfers take 3–5 weeks, while inter-RIR transfers take 4–8 months. AFRINIC transfers take 3–5 weeks but are intra-RIR only — no inter-RIR transfers are available. ipv4.center proactively manages each step to minimize delays.
An intra-RIR transfer occurs between two organizations within the same Regional Internet Registry (e.g., RIPE to RIPE). An inter-RIR transfer moves IPv4 addresses between organizations in different RIR regions (e.g., ARIN to RIPE). Inter-RIR transfers involve coordination between both registries and may have additional requirements and longer processing times.
Yes, you generally need an active membership or sponsorship arrangement with the RIR where you want to hold the addresses. For RIPE NCC, you need an LIR account (or a sponsoring LIR). For ARIN, you need an Org ID and may need to demonstrate justified need. For APNIC, LACNIC, and AFRINIC, equivalent membership is required. ipv4.center can help you set up the necessary membership.
RIR transfer rejections are rare when proper documentation is provided. Common rejection reasons include incomplete paperwork, unresolved disputes on the address space, or failure to meet needs-based justification (ARIN). If a transfer is rejected, our team works with the RIR to resolve the issue. If the transfer cannot be completed, escrow funds are returned to the buyer in full.
Yes, inter-RIR transfers are supported between most RIR pairs. RIPE NCC, ARIN, and APNIC all support inter-RIR transfers. LACNIC supports inter-RIR transfers, though they take significantly longer (4–8 months vs 3–5 weeks for intra-RIR). AFRINIC supports intra-RIR transfers only — no inter-RIR transfers are available from AFRINIC. Inter-RIR transfers typically take longer than intra-RIR transfers and may involve fees from both the source and receiving registries.