Automated domain acquisition the moment a registered domain expires and becomes available. Drop catchers use bots to register domains in the milliseconds after the registry deletes them from the zone, before any human can react.
Why it matters: expired domains often have existing search rankings, backlinks, or brand value. Drop catchers exploit this. Registrars compete on speed and infrastructure—some offer drop-catch services where they attempt registration on your behalf for a fee ($20–100 depending on domain and TLD).
The mechanics: a domain enters redemption period after expiration (usually 30 days). During this window, the registrant can still renew at normal rates. After redemption expires, it sits in pending delete status (5 days for .com, varies by registry). Once deleted, it's live in the registry again—and the race begins. Drop catchers with direct registry connections or optimized nameserver routing get first shot.
At bunkerdomains, we don't offer drop-catch services. Our value is different: anonymous signup, crypto-only payment, no WHOIS harassing. If you're hunting expired domains, use specialized drop-catch platforms (NameJet, SnapNames), then register the winner with us for privacy.