RIPE Transfer process
RIPE IP Address Transfer
How it's done?
RIPE is the RIR with the most liberal transfer policies. In RIPE, legacy address blocks can be bought and sold (even partial blocks) without a needs-test and without the requirement that the recipient become a RIPE member or that the addresses lose their legacy status.
RIPE provides some services for market participants, including a list of recognized brokers and a list where buyers and sellers can post need and availability. RIPE also provides a log of all intraRIPE transfers and interregional RIPE transfers. IPTrading is a long-time recognized RIPE Broker.
IPTrading.com is also a RIPE LIR member and has access to the RIPE Transfer listing service, which is restricted to RIPE members only.
1> Buyer creates a RIPE Account
Generally, most Buyers wishing to receive RIPE IPv4 space should set up a RIPE account online and become an LIR (ISP-type account). There are exceptions for Buyers seeking to purchase Legacy space or end-user (PI) space. The initial setup of a RIPE account can take several weeks since original, signed agreements must be mailed to RIPE headquarters in Amsterdam.
2> Buyer and Seller negotiate sale under guidance of Broker
Under the guidance of the Broker, Buyer and Seller negotiate the price and terms of the IPv4 sale. In most cases, Buyer and Seller will execute an Asset Purchase Agreement codifying these terms. The Asset Purchase Agreement is a legally binding document that specifies when the Buyer is to fund escrow, and to which escrow agent, when the Seller is to initiate the transfer, and when the funds are to be released from escrow to the Seller. RIPE is not involved in this step although they are aware that money often changes hands when IPv4 space is transferred.
3> Buyer and Seller sign Transfer Agreement
Buyer and Seller will sign a RIPE Transfer Agreement, which can be downloaded from RIPE’s website.
4> Seller initiates a transfer request with RIPE
The Seller enters a transfer request in their RIPE LIR portal to transfer IPv4 space to the Buyer. As part of the request, the Seller will upload the fully executed RIPE Transfer Agreement and company registration documents for both parties. This request creates a RIPE ticket number.
5> RIPE requests further information from Buyer and Seller
A RIPE analyst may request additional information from the Buyer or Seller, such as proof that the signer of the RIPE Transfer Agreement is authorized to sign on behalf of their company. RIPE may ask the Seller to pay their annual RIPE dues in full prior to proceeding with the transfer. RIPE may also make technical requests, asking the Seller to remove existing RIPE database objects on the transferred range or asking the Buyer to assume responsibility for them.
6> RIPE completes the transfer
RIPE approves and completes most transfers within a few days of receiving all necessary documentation. At this point, RIPE updates Whois and the transfer is complete.
