The present invention relates to a special process for purifying dialkyl carbonates. In particular, the present invention relates to a continuous process for purifying a dialkyl carbonate/alcohol-mixture in the preparation of lower dialkyl carbonate by catalysed transesterification of a cyclic alkylene carbonate (e.g. ethylene carbonate or propylene carbonate) with lower alcohols. To optimize the economics and energy efficiency of the process, an apparatus for intermediate heating of the internal liquid stream is used.