I think this is a constructive notice from ICANN. Registrars are certainly inconsistent whether out-going transfers are allowed once a domain has expired. We have seen several instances of registrars denying transfers that are in the auto-renewal period. One reason stated is that the registrar has already invoiced the customer for the renewal and thus is "owed" payment. Another stated reason is the belief that expired domains are not eligible for transfer. I think the notice should include a simple statement: "domains that have expired and are in the auto-renewal period are still eligible for transfer to another registrar except under nine limited circumstances...." Tom Barrett EnCirca -----Original Message----- From: owner-registrars@gnso.icann.org [mailto:owner-registrars@gnso.icann.org] On Behalf Of Ross Rader Sent: Thursday, September 20, 2007 9:30 AM To: Registrars Constituency Subject: [registrars] FYI re: Transfers Staff has posted a notice of advisory regarding the domain transfers policy. This was not posted pursuant to the work of the Transfers WG or the GNSO Council - it is an independent effort. I have yet to read and understand it, but I would be interested in your respective feedback on the document. http://www.icann.org/announcements/announcement-19sep07.htm -- Regards, Ross Rader Director, Retail Services Tucows Inc. http://www.domaindirect.com t. 416.538.5492