Domain Change Redirect Checker
Verify redirects when changing domains. Ensure proper 301 implementation and preserve your SEO value during domain migration.
Why Domain Changes Are Risky
Changing your domain name is one of the most significant SEO changes you can make. Without proper 301 redirects, you risk:
- Losing all search engine rankings
- Breaking all existing backlinks
- Losing social media share counts
- Confusing returning visitors
- Massive traffic drops
Our domain change checker helps you verify every URL is properly redirected from your old domain to your new one.
Domain Change Checklist
Before Domain Change
- Export all URLs from old domain using sitemap
- Document all backlinks using Google Search Console
- Set up new domain and replicate site structure
- Create URL mapping spreadsheet (old domain → new domain)
- Set up link monitoring for both domains
During Domain Change
- Implement site-wide 301 redirects from old to new domain
- Use page-level redirects, not just homepage redirect
- Test all critical pages with our redirect checker
- Update Google Search Console with Change of Address tool
- Submit new sitemap to search engines
After Domain Change
- Monitor for 404 errors daily
- Check for redirect chains and fix them
- Update social media profiles with new domain
- Reach out to high-value backlink sources to update links
- Keep old domain and redirects active for at least 1 year
Common Domain Change Scenarios
Rebranding
Company rebrands often require domain changes. Ensure comprehensive redirect mapping and maintain redirects indefinitely.
Acquiring Better Domain
Moving to a premium or more brandable domain requires the same careful redirect planning as any domain change.
Merger or Acquisition
Multiple domains merging into one require complex redirect mapping. Consider maintaining separate domains if they serve different audiences.
Platform-Specific Domain Change Guides
- WordPress Domain Change: Update wp-config.php and use redirect plugins
- Shopify Domain Change: Use Shopify's domain settings and bulk redirects
- Wix Domain Change: Change primary domain in Wix settings
SEO Best Practices for Domain Changes
- Use 301 Permanent Redirects: Never use 302 or 307 temporary redirects
- Preserve URL Structure: Keep same URL paths when possible
- No Redirect Chains: Redirect directly to final destination
- Monitor Rankings: Track keyword positions during transition
- Keep Old Domain Active: Maintain for minimum 1 year
For comprehensive website migration guidance beyond just domain changes, see our full migration checker.
