Poor hosting experiences, increased feature needs or a change in budget may require webmasters to transfer a website from one host to another. Unfortunately these web host transfers sometimes end in lost files, downtime, deleted websites, and *gasp* lost customers. Read on for tips for making your next web host transfer a success.

1. Prevention
Prevent detrimental file loss by backing up all files and scripts before a transfer. In fact, back them up twice.

2. Communication
Inform your website visitors and customers that you will be making some changes and there by be intermitant downtime. Give specific times and dates for expected downtime or website delays. Advanced communication with customers will help them be understanding and more patient with inconveniencing delays.

3. Cover Your Bases
When you sign up for a new hosting service don't be too anxious to leave the old behind. Keep your account with the old hosting provider for a least a couple of weeks after you have made file transfers to ensure that you have a backup copy just in case.

4. Test First, Switch Later
Before actually switching the DNS (the server that actually hosts your domain name and 'serves' it to those who request it) see if you can get a practice DNS from your new host to try out your site files to be sure your website features work properly with the new host before going "live" with your actual site on the new host. Many web hosts are willing to accomodate these types of requests if you ask nicely.

5. Double Check
Once your website has been successfully transferred to the new host and the DNS is officially switched check all links, email functions, scripts, and databases to be sure all functions are working as they should. More often than not there are a few quirks in the transfer to a new host.

If you are concerned about transferring your web host and are looking for a service that will transfer your website with care, we recommend BlueHost. They specialize in smooth web host transfers and have low prices for full-featured hosting.