Complete Guide to IPv4 Transfer Processes: ARIN, RIPE, and APNIC
Transfer processes differ by RIR: ARIN, RIPE, and APNIC each have their own rules. Sellers and buyers need to follow the right process for their region. This post covers why that matters, how each RIR handles transfers, the main differences, and what sellers should know. For the full seller path, our how to sell IPv4 guide walks through the process.
Why Transfer Processes Matter
Transfers are how IPv4 changes hands under RIR rules. RIR free pools are exhausted, so new space comes from transfers. Each RIR runs its own process.
Sellers need to know the process so they can list, find a buyer, and complete the transfer correctly. Buyers need to know so they can do due diligence and complete RIR steps. Mistakes delay or block the deal. Our how to sell IPv4 guide covers the seller side.
This guide focuses on ARIN, RIPE, and APNIC; sellers should also follow our sell guide for listing and agreement steps.
ARIN Transfer Process
ARIN (American Registry for Internet Numbers) serves North America and parts of the Caribbean. Transfers follow ARIN policy.
Eligibility. ARIN has rules on who can transfer and receive space. Sellers must have held the space for a minimum period and meet other requirements. Buyers must demonstrate need (in ARIN space) or meet inter-regional transfer rules.
Process. The seller and buyer (or their LIRs) submit the transfer to ARIN. ARIN verifies eligibility and processes it. The registry is updated; the buyer becomes the holder of record.
Size and other rules. ARIN has minimum block size and other policy details. Sellers should check current ARIN policy and work with a broker or LIR. Our how to sell IPv4 guide covers listing, agreement, and coordination with the RIR.
RIPE NCC Transfer Process
RIPE NCC serves Europe, the Middle East, and parts of Central Asia. Transfers follow RIPE policy.
Eligibility. RIPE has rules on who can transfer and receive space. Sellers must meet holding period and other requirements. Buyers must demonstrate need (in RIPE space) or meet inter-regional rules.
Process. The seller and buyer (or their LIRs) complete the transfer in the RIPE system. RIPE NCC processes it and updates the registry. The buyer becomes the holder of record.
Size and other rules. RIPE has minimum block size and other policy details. Sellers should check current RIPE policy and work with a broker or LIR. Our how to sell IPv4 guide covers the seller path.
APNIC Transfer Process
APNIC (Asia-Pacific Network Information Centre) serves the Asia-Pacific region. Transfers follow APNIC policy.
Eligibility. APNIC has rules on who can transfer and receive space. Sellers must meet holding period and other requirements. Buyers must demonstrate need (in APNIC space) or meet inter-regional rules.
Process. The seller and buyer (or their LIRs) complete the transfer in the APNIC system. APNIC processes it and updates the registry.
Size and other rules. APNIC has minimum block size and other policy details. The process differs from ARIN and RIPE in the specifics. Sellers should check current APNIC policy and our how to sell IPv4 guide.
Key Differences and What Sellers Need to Know
Each RIR is different. ARIN, RIPE, and APNIC have different eligibility rules, minimum sizes, and process details. Sellers must follow the process for the RIR that holds their block.
Inter-regional transfers. Transfers between RIRs (e.g. RIPE to ARIN) have additional rules. Both RIRs must approve. Work with a broker or LIR who knows inter-regional rules.
Seller steps. Regardless of RIR, sellers need to: list the block (or work with a broker), find a buyer, do due diligence, sign LOA and agreement, and complete the transfer with the RIR. Our how to sell IPv4 guide walks through listing, agreement, and completing the transfer.
Transfers are the mechanism for selling IPv4. Each RIR has its rules; sellers who follow them and our sell guide can complete transfers successfully.