Transferring Ethereum (ETH) between cryptocurrency platforms is a common task for traders seeking better pricing, enhanced security, or access to advanced trading features. One such transition involves moving ETH from Coinbase to GDAX, now officially rebranded as Coinbase Pro. While the name has changed, many users still refer to it as GDAX due to its established reputation in the crypto community.
This guide walks you through the complete process of transferring ETH from Coinbase to GDAX (Coinbase Pro), covering essential aspects like account verification, transfer steps, fees, processing times, and critical security practices. Whether you're a beginner or an intermediate trader, this step-by-step walkthrough ensures a smooth and secure experience.
Understanding the Relationship Between Coinbase and GDAX
Before diving into the transfer process, it's important to understand that GDAX and Coinbase are part of the same ecosystem. GDAX was originally launched as a professional trading platform for experienced users, offering lower fees, order book depth, and advanced charting tools. In 2018, it was rebranded as Coinbase Pro, but the underlying infrastructure remains tightly integrated with Coinbase.
Because both platforms share the same parent company and user base, transferring funds between them is not a traditional blockchain transaction — instead, it’s an internal transfer within the Coinbase ecosystem. This means faster processing and no network fees.
Step-by-Step Guide: Transferring ETH from Coinbase to GDAX (Coinbase Pro)
Step 1: Verify Your Identity on Both Platforms
Before initiating any transfers, ensure your identity is fully verified on both Coinbase and Coinbase Pro (formerly GDAX). This typically includes:
- Submitting government-issued ID
- Completing facial recognition
- Verifying your email and phone number
Without full verification, deposit and withdrawal limits may apply, or certain features could be restricted.
👉 Discover how verified accounts unlock advanced trading capabilities.
Step 2: Log In to Your Coinbase Account
Access your Coinbase account via the website or mobile app. Navigate to the Wallet section and locate your ETH balance.
Step 3: Access Coinbase Pro (Formerly GDAX)
If you don’t already have a Coinbase Pro account:
- Go to pro.coinbase.com
- Sign up using the same email associated with your Coinbase account (recommended)
- Complete the identity verification process if prompted
Once logged in, you’ll see a professional trading interface with charts, order books, and portfolio summaries.
Step 4: Initiate the Internal Transfer
To move ETH from Coinbase to Coinbase Pro:
- On the Coinbase website or app, go to Accounts or Assets
- Find your ETH wallet
- Click Send or Transfer
- Choose Coinbase Pro as the destination
- Enter the amount of ETH you wish to transfer
- Confirm the transaction using two-factor authentication (2FA)
This transfer occurs off-chain and typically completes within seconds.
Are There Fees for Transferring ETH?
One of the key advantages of moving ETH between Coinbase and Coinbase Pro is that there are no fees for internal transfers. Since the movement doesn’t occur on the Ethereum blockchain, no gas fees apply.
However, be aware:
- Trading fees on Coinbase Pro are based on a maker-taker model (as low as 0.00% for makers under certain volume tiers)
- Standard withdrawal fees will apply if you later move ETH out of Coinbase Pro to an external wallet
Always review fee schedules before executing trades or external withdrawals.
How Long Does the Transfer Take?
Internal transfers from Coinbase to Coinbase Pro are nearly instantaneous — usually taking less than 30 seconds. You can monitor the status in your activity feed on either platform.
External transfers (e.g., sending ETH from Coinbase Pro to a non-Coinbase wallet) depend on Ethereum network congestion and gas prices, potentially taking several minutes to over an hour during peak times.
Security Best Practices During Transfer
Cryptocurrency transactions are irreversible, so security is paramount. Follow these best practices:
- ✅ Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) using an authenticator app (Google Authenticator or Authy), not SMS
- ✅ Double-check all transfer details before confirming
- ✅ Avoid public Wi-Fi when accessing your accounts
- ✅ Regularly review login activity and connected devices
- ✅ Use strong, unique passwords and consider a password manager
👉 Learn how top traders protect their digital assets across platforms.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Is GDAX still operational under that name?
A: While officially rebranded as Coinbase Pro, many users still refer to it as GDAX. The platform remains fully functional with all the advanced trading tools previously available on GDAX.
Q: Do I need separate accounts for Coinbase and Coinbase Pro?
A: No — you can use the same email and login credentials for both platforms. However, balances are managed separately, so you must manually transfer funds between them.
Q: Can I transfer ETH directly from Coinbase to another exchange via GDAX?
A: Yes, but only after transferring ETH to Coinbase Pro first. Once there, you can withdraw ETH to any external wallet or exchange address you control.
Q: What happens if I send ETH to the wrong address on Coinbase Pro?
A: Cryptocurrency transactions are irreversible. If you withdraw ETH to an incorrect external address, recovery is unlikely. Always verify addresses carefully.
Q: Are there limits on how much ETH I can transfer?
A: Yes — transfer limits depend on your verification level and region. These can range from $1,000 to over $50,000 per day. You can check your specific limits in your account settings.
Q: Why use Coinbase Pro instead of regular Coinbase?
A: Coinbase Pro offers lower fees, limit orders, stop-loss functionality, real-time order books, and advanced charting tools — ideal for active traders who want more control over their trades.
Final Thoughts
Transferring ETH from Coinbase to GDAX (Coinbase Pro) is a simple, fast, and free process thanks to their shared infrastructure. By following the steps outlined above — verifying your identity, initiating an internal transfer, and applying strong security measures — you can seamlessly access a more powerful trading environment.
Whether you're looking to take advantage of tighter spreads, execute complex orders, or reduce trading costs, moving your ETH to Coinbase Pro unlocks new possibilities in your crypto journey.
👉 Explore how professional-grade tools can enhance your trading strategy today.