It is easy for small business owners to manage their own hosting and domain registration services if you keep it simple and avoid temptations.
1) Start Here with hosting. Do this before you initiate hosting or at the same time.
2) Follow this link to order a shared hosting plan with HostGator. If you have one domain order the “Hatchling Plan”; if you have more than one domain order the “Baby Plan”. If you have a busy retail site, you may want to consider VPS hosting.
3) If you purchase from Hostgator, they will provide “.. free transfers for new accounts within 30 days of sign-up, and to newly upgraded accounts. For upgraded accounts it must be an inter-server upgrade to qualify. Please note that downgraded accounts do not qualify for free transfers. ”
Other Hosts
If you choose another host, you will need to transfer your site files, create a new database and import the files, and update your domain dns settings to reflect the new settings. Ask the new host for help and instructions.
Hostgator is indeed a good service and their deal to move your site is a good one. So many sites are database driven these days and they’re so difficult to move yourself.
I actually have not heard about Hostgator before but I will be checking them out. I am in the works of creating my own website and you seem to have all the best information and advice. Thanks, great post!