IPv4 Return Policy

Our Role in the Transfer Process

IPv4 Connect, a division of Brander Group, is a brokerage specializing in the sale and transfer of IPv4 addresses. Our role is to facilitate seamless transactions while ensuring compliance with the policies of Regional Internet Registries (RIRs).

The transfer process requires multiple approval steps, and our experienced brokers guide clients through each stage to ensure a smooth and compliant transaction.

More information about our transfer process is available on our transfer process page.

The IPv4 Transfer Process

Since the transfer process takes several weeks, it can be canceled while in progress. However, once completed, the transaction is final and cannot be reversed. Transactions generally take 2–3 weeks from start to finish.

1. IPv4 Transfer Tickets – 1 – 3 Days
   Seller submits the transfer request via online portal with the regional internet registry. They pay any fees, if applicable.
2. IPv4 Address Block Examination – 1 Day
   Buyer will have the ability to review the IPv4 Address Block before making payment.
3. IPv4 Asset Purchase – 1 – 4 Days
   Buyer signs the IPv4 Order Form / Purchase Agreement.
4. Buyer Payment – 1 – 5 Days
   Buyer makes secure payment to designated client funds account via wire transfer or escrow.com.
5. WHOIS IPv4 Transfer Announcement – 1 Day
   Upon successful IPv4 transfer, the online Whois record is updated with the buyer’s organization in the respective regional internet registry.
6. Internet Registry Review – 5 – 10 Days
   Internet registry verifies seller information to ensure they own the rights & reviews the buyer’s pre-approval to ensure they have a business case to acquire IPv4 addresses.
7. Payment Release to Seller – 1 – 4 Days
   We release funds to the seller the same day the IPv4 transfer completes.

Returning IPv4 Addresses by RIR

Each RIR has its own policies regarding the return of IPv4 addresses. Below is a summary of how returns work within each registry:

• ARIN (American Registry for Internet Numbers): IPv4 resources can be voluntarily returned to ARIN. Organizations typically submit a request through ARIN Online. ARIN may reclaim unused or revoked resources, but voluntary returns are accepted and added to the available pool.
• APNIC (Asia-Pacific Network Information Centre): Members can return unused IPv4 addresses by submitting a request via MyAPNIC. The returned addresses are placed into APNIC’s recovery pool and may be reallocated based on policy guidelines.
• RIPE NCC (Réseaux IP Européens Network Coordination Centre): IPv4 addresses can be returned to RIPE NCC voluntarily. RIPE NCC will then redistribute the resources according to its allocation policies. Members must submit an official request through the RIPE NCC portal.
• LACNIC (Latin America and Caribbean Network Information Centre): IPv4 addresses may be returned upon request. LACNIC reviews returns on a case-by-case basis and reassigns them based on their established policies. Members must follow the return procedures outlined in LACNIC’s policy documentation.
• AFRINIC (African Network Information Centre): IPv4 address holders may voluntarily return unused resources. AFRINIC evaluates requests and reassigns addresses according to community-driven policies. The process is initiated via AFRINIC’s online portal.

If you have any questions or need assistance with returning IPv4 addresses, our brokers at IPv4 Connect are here to help. Contact us for guidance on navigating the return process efficiently and in compliance with RIR policies.