Token locking refers to securing a specific amount of tokens in a designated location, preventing them from entering the market. Liquidity pool (LP) locking involves locking LP tokens to ensure project stability by preventing developers from withdrawing liquidity.
Before diving into the step-by-step process, let’s address some common questions:
1. Can a liquidity pool be withdrawn if admin access is lost?
Answer: Lost access doesn’t affect pool withdrawal. Only locked pools cannot be withdrawn.
2. How does LP locking work?
Answer: When you provide liquidity on platforms like PancakeSwap or Uniswap (V2), you receive LP tokens as proof of ownership. Withdrawing liquidity requires returning these tokens to the exchange. Locking LP tokens—by transferring them to an inaccessible address—prevents withdrawal.
3. What are the LP locking methods?
Two primary methods exist:
- Permanent lock: Transfer LP tokens to a burn address (e.g.,
0x000...dEaD), making them irrecoverable. - Time-based lock: Use third-party locking contracts (e.g., PinkSale) to release LP tokens after a set period.
4. What are LP tokens?
Answer: Liquidity Pool (LP) tokens act as receipts for provided liquidity (e.g., pairing Token A and Token B in a pool).
5. How to view LP tokens?
After creating a pool, the blockchain generates an LP contract address. Add this address to your wallet to track your LP balance.
6. Do pools have admin controls?
Answer: No. Pools are collectively owned by liquidity providers. Each provider holds a share proportional to their contribution.
Step-by-Step Guide to Locking Liquidity Pools
Step 1: Choose a Locking Platform
We recommend PinkSale (pinksale.finance/pinklock/create). Connect your wallet to proceed.
Step 2: Enter Token or LP Contract Address
- Locking tokens? Use the token contract address.
- Locking LPs? Use the LP contract address (found via blockchain explorers or tools like ApeSwap).
👉 Need help finding your LP address?
Step 3: Add a Label (Optional)
Labels help organize multiple locks (e.g., “ProjectX_ETH-LP”).
Step 4: Specify Lock Amount
Lock all or a portion of your LP tokens. For simplicity, select "MAX" to lock everything.
Step 5: Set Unlock Time
Choose a UTC timestamp (add +8 hours for Beijing Time). Example:
- UTC: July 8, 2027, 14:40
- Beijing Time: July 8, 2027, 22:40
Step 6: Approve the Transaction
Pay gas fees to authorize the contract to access your LP tokens.
Step 7: Execute the Lock
Click “Lock” and confirm the transaction.
Step 8: Verify the Lock
Check your lock status at pinksale.finance/pinklock/liquidity by entering the LP address.
Token Locking
Follow the same steps as LP locking, but use the token contract address instead. Verify locks at pinksale.finance/pinklock/token.
Alternative Locking Platforms
- Unicrypt
- Team.Finance
- TrustSwap
👉 Compare platform features here
FAQs
Q1: Can V3 pools be locked?
A: Most platforms currently do not support V3 LP locking.
Q2: What happens if I lock tokens permanently?
A: They become irretrievable, ensuring long-term project trust.
Q3: Is locking reversible?
A: Only with time-based locks; permanent locks are irreversible.
Q4: Are there fees for locking?
A: Yes—gas fees for approvals and locking transactions.
By following this guide, you ensure project transparency and build investor confidence. Always double-check contract addresses and lock parameters before confirming transactions.