There are a dozen significant .com domain names.

I have to move these domains to a registrar for future renewal payments, but it's recommended to avoid making any payments during the transfer process, particularly for DNS services.

Are there any registrars that fit this criteria? Which ones are trustworthy?

When looking to transfer a dozen significant .com domains, you want to ensure a smooth process, particularly avoiding unnecessary payments during the transition. Here's an in-depth examination of reliable registrars that can help you achieve that.

1. Namecheap:
Namecheap is highly regarded for its affordability and user-friendly interface. They offer a seamless transfer process without requiring payment for DNS services while the transfer is underway. This means your existing DNS settings remain active, which is critical for maintaining website functionality during the switch. Additionally, Namecheap provides 24/7 customer support via live chat and has an extensive knowledge base, making it easy to find answers to your questions.

2. Google Domains:
Google Domains stands out for its integration with other Google services and its reputation for security and reliability. Transfers are straightforward, and you will not need to make immediate payments for DNS hosting. Their platform is easy to navigate, and they offer features such as email forwarding and subdomain management without complicated pricing. Trusting Google with your domains ensures a high level of performance and security throughout the transfer process.

3. Dynadot:
Dynadot is known for its transparent pricing and straightforward domain management tools. They also allow you to transfer domains without additional charges for DNS services, which helps streamline the process. Their user-friendly control panel includes bulk management features, allowing you to handle multiple domains efficiently. If you're technically inclined, Dynadot also offers a well-documented API for automating domain management tasks.

4. Gandi:
Gandi emphasizes transparency and ethical practices in domain registration. They offer comprehensive DNS services for free during the transfer process, enabling you to maintain existing settings without incurring costs. Their platform is straightforward, and they prioritize customer support, ensuring you have assistance if needed. Gandi is also known for its commitment to user privacy and security, which can provide peace of mind for domain investors.

5. Hover:
Hover keeps things simple and user-friendly, catering to customers who prefer a clean and efficient interface. When transferring domains to Hover, you won't need to make additional payments for DNS services. They offer free WHOIS privacy protection and have a highly praised customer support team ready to assist you. Their focus on simplicity makes it easy to understand the transfer process and address any potential issues.

When planning your domain transfer, remember a few key steps. First, ensure that your domains are unlocked and that you have the necessary authorization codes from your current registrar. This is an essential step to avoid any delays. Second, it's wise to consider the timing of the transfer, particularly if some domains are nearing their expiration dates. Most registrars will extend the registration period by a year during the transfer, but confirming this beforehand is crucial.

When you transfer a domain to another registrar, there is a fee involved. This fee not only covers the transfer process but also automatically extends the domain registration for an additional year. Consequently, trying to avoid this payment is not an option, as it is an integral part of the transfer procedure.

It's essential to factor this cost into your budget when planning to move your domain, ensuring a seamless transition to your new registrar while keeping your domain active for the coming year.

Your choice of a registrar hinges on specific needs, such as the types of payment options available and whether you prefer paid or complimentary privacy services for your domain. Personally, I'm a fan of DynaDot; they offer their own management interface which is user-friendly, and they provide complimentary DNS servers.
However, it's worth noting that while their private registration service comes with a fee, I find the overall value to be worthwhile for the services provided. Always assess your priorities to ensure you select the best registrar for your projects.