How it works

Backorders

A backorder is a request to try to secure a domain name that is due to expire. You place your backorder in advance, and if the domain becomes available for registration again, our system attempts to secure it immediately.

Backorders are not guarantees. They are an automated attempt to acquire a domain name at the earliest possible opportunity, using our accredited access to the domain registry.

What Happens When You Place a Backorder

1. You select a domain name

   Choose a domain name that is currently registered but expected to expire.

2. You place a backorder in advance

   Backorders must be placed before the domain becomes available again. Once it reaches that point, it is too late to submit a new backorder.

3. We monitor the domain

   We track the domain through its expiry process and prepare to attempt to secure it if it becomes available.

4. We attempt to secure the domain

   When the domain becomes available for registration, our system submits registration requests automatically.

5. If the domain is secured

   If Domain Parachute successfully registers the domain, the outcome depends on how many backorders were placed:

   • If only one user placed a backorder, the domain is allocated to them.
   • If multiple users placed backorders, an auction is triggered automatically.

   Learn more about how auctions work.

6. If the domain is not secured

   No fees or charges apply. This means we were not able to register the domain, usually because the domain was registered elsewhere.

The Lifecycle of an Expiring .UK Domain

To understand when and why backorders succeed or fail, it helps to know how a .UK domain moves through the expiry process.

When a .UK domain reaches the end of its registration period, it does not immediately become available for registration. Instead, it passes through several stages, during which the current registrant may still be able to renew it.

In broad terms, the lifecycle looks like this:

1. Active registration

   The domain is registered and fully operational.

2. Expiry grace period

   After the registration period ends, the domain enters a 30-day grace period. During this time, the domain remains operational and can be renewed by the current registrant.

3. Redemption grace period

   If the domain is not renewed, it enters a redemption period lasting between 30 and 90 days after expiry. During this time, the domain does not resolve but may still be renewed by the current registrant.

4. Pending delete grace period

   If the domain is still not renewed, it enters a 5-day pending delete period. During this time, the domain cannot be renewed and is not available for registration. Once this period ends, the domain becomes available for registration again.

Backorders focus on the moment at which the domain becomes available for registration. Before that, it cannot be registered by anyone else.

When to use a backorder

Backorders are intended for registering domains where timing matters due to demand. Placing a backorder means an automated attempt is made as soon as a domain can be registered.

Domains are often secured within milliseconds, making manual registration attempts unrealistic. Backorders are not guaranteed and depend on the expiry process and the level of competition from others.