Rebrands and better domain names sometimes require moving to a new domain. Done carefully, most rankings transfer over time.
Before the move
- Map every old URL to its new URL.
- Keep page content similar during the move; avoid redesigning at the same time if possible.
- Verify both domains in Search Console.
The move
- Set up 301 redirects from each old URL to its new equivalent; generate rules with our redirect generator.
- Use Search Console’s Change of Address tool.
- Submit the new sitemap; create one with our sitemap generator.
- Update canonical tags, internal links and structured data.
After the move
- Update Google Business Profile, social profiles, directories and ads.
- Ask important linking sites to update links.
- Keep redirects in place for at least a year, ideally permanently.
- Keep renewing the old domain.
Expect fluctuations
Rankings may dip temporarily before settling.
Read SEO when you rebrand.
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