In an effort to evolve and adapt to meet the needs of its diverse user base, the .post domain is re-launching with extended eligibility for all trademark owners to register second-level .post domains, with some use restrictions. Here’s what you need to know in order to secure your trademarked domain name.
The History Behind .POST Domain
The .post domain has a unique history that dates back to the early 2000s. The Universal Postal Union (UPU), a specialized agency of the United Nations and the primary forum for cooperation between postal sector players, first submitted an application for the .post string during the initial round of the Top-Level Domain (TLD) expansion program in 2000. However, the application was not approved at that time.
In 2003, the UPU took another shot at securing the .post domain when ICANN opened the second round of expansion for sponsored top-level domain names alongside .asia, .cat, .jobs, .mail, .mobi, .tel, .travel, and .xxx. After negotiations and a period of public comment, ICANN and the Universal Postal Union finally signed an agreement for the operation of .post on December 11, 2009. However, it wasn’t until 2012 that it began accepting registrations.
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Why Should Brands Register .POST?
Counterfeiting and piracy are significant threats that cost brand owners billions each year and pose dangers to consumer safety. Industries like pharmaceuticals, luxury goods, and more are taking action to secure their supply chains. The Universal Postal Union is developing major legislation to secure the global postal sector against these modern threats. It also helps to ensure a truly universal network of up-to-date products and services. Backed by the UPU, .post domain is the trusted choice for any business involved in global logistics and supply chains.
Launch Dates and Important Information
- Sunrise Period: March 15, 2024 – April 15, 2024
- General Availability: May 1, 2024
During the Sunrise Period, both registered and unregistered trademark owners have the opportunity to register .post, .com.post, .org.post, and .edu.post domains corresponding to their trademarks. You do not need to be registered with Trademark Clearinghouse. Sunrise registrations are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Starting May 1, 2024, those who meet the eligibility requirements for .post can register in General Availability on a first-come, first-served basis.
Requirements
1. The .post domain is a restricted TLD intended for stakeholders in the postal, logistics and supply-chain sectors. All applications must complete a verification process:
- Sunrise: Applications must provide a copy of their Trademark (any jurisdiction) or a valid SMD file.
- General Availability: Applicants must provide documentation of their business identity, such as a business license number, VAT, or Employer Identification Number (EIN).
2. All .post applications are published on the Notices page for a minimum 30-day opposition period, during which objections or competing applications can be submitted.
3. All .post domains must enable DNSSEC, SSL, and DMARC. These are not currently enforced, but the registry will start monitoring later this year and will alert registrants of any compliance issues.
4. The Registry requires all .post names to resolve. This requirement can be satisfied by redirecting the .post domains to an existing website. Parked pages displaying third-party advertising are not allowed. Trademarks that do not meet the Acceptable Use Policy may defensively register but may not resolve.
For assistance or questions regarding eligibility and requirements, please contact your account executive or a member of our corporate team.
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