About .trade domain
.trade is a generic top-level domain (gTLD) delegated under ICANN's New gTLD Program. It is operated by the registry Famous Four Media (Elite Registry Limited) and was delegated to the root zone on 19 March 2014. The registry's stated purpose is to provide a dedicated and secure namespace for online commerce. The TLD operates under a standard ICANN registry agreement.
Who can register .trade domain
Registration for a .trade domain is open to any individual, company, or organization worldwide. There are no geographic, organizational, or professional restrictions for registrants. The TLD does not require verification of involvement in commerce or trade to complete a registration.
How to register .trade domain
- Search for your desired .trade domain name using a domain registrar's search tool to check its availability.
- Compare pricing, registration term lengths, and add-on services like WHOIS privacy from several accredited registrars before selecting one.
- Complete the checkout process, providing accurate registrant contact information as required by ICANN.
- After purchase, manage your domain through the registrar's control panel to configure DNS settings and verify your contact details.
Typical uses of .trade domain
The .trade extension is commonly used by businesses, entrepreneurs, and platforms directly involved in commerce and exchange. Companies in sectors like e-commerce, wholesale, import/export, and financial trading often choose it to clearly signal their commercial purpose. It provides a relevant alternative to broader TLDs for entities wanting a domain name that immediately communicates a focus on trade.
Tips for registering .trade domain
- Domains are generally registered on a first-come, first-served basis after any applicable start-up periods.
- A Trademark Claims service was active for the first 90 days of general registration to notify potential registrants of existing trademark rights.
- The registry established a Governance Council consisting of key stakeholders to serve as an advisory body for the TLD's operation.
Frequently asked questions about .trade domain
How much does it cost to register and renew a .trade domain?
As of today, .trade domains start from $4.18/yr on NameBeta, with prices ranging up to $55.00/yr across 30 registrars. See the registrar comparison table on this page for live prices.Which registrars support .trade domains?
NameBeta tracks 30 registrars that support .trade domain registration, with the cheapest option at $4.18/yr. Full list on this page.Who operates .trade domain?
The registry for .trade domains is Elite Registry, administered by Elite Registry Limited.
Who can register a .trade domain?
Anyone can register a .trade domain without needing to prove they are engaged in commercial activities. There are no eligibility barriers based on location, business type, or trademark ownership. This open policy allows individuals, startups, and established corporations globally to secure a .trade address for their online presence.
Can I transfer a .trade domain between registrars?
.trade domains can be transferred between ICANN-accredited registrars following the standard inter-registrar transfer policy. The process typically requires obtaining an authorization code from your current registrar and initiating the transfer with the gaining registrar. Ensure your domain is unlocked and that WHOIS privacy is disabled, if applicable, before starting the transfer.
What dispute resolution policies apply to .trade domains?
.trade domains are subject to ICANN-mandated rights protection mechanisms, including the Uniform Domain-Name Dispute-Resolution Policy (UDRP). The registry also implemented a Trademark Claims service during its initial launch phase to provide notice of trademark rights. Trademark holders can use these mechanisms to address cases of cybersquatting or bad-faith registration.
Are there any special policies for premium .trade domain names?
The registry may designate certain .trade domains as "premium," which can carry different pricing, often higher than standard registration fees. The availability and pricing for these names are set by the registry and can vary by registrar. It's advisable to check directly with your chosen registrar for the specific terms and renewal rates associated with any premium name.
