Moving content between WordPress sites, or keeping a copy of it, is easier than many people think. The video covers the built-in export and import tools and plugin options for more advanced moves.
Export with the built-in tool
- Go to Tools, then Export.
- Choose All content, or only posts, pages or media.
- Download the export file (an XML file).
Import into another site
- On the new site, go to Tools, then Import.
- Install the WordPress importer if prompted, then run it.
- Upload the XML file, assign authors and tick "Download and import file attachments" to bring images across.
What the built-in tool does not move
- Theme settings and customisations.
- Plugin settings.
- Widgets and some menus.
- Users' passwords.
Full-site migration
To move a whole site to a new host or domain, use a migration or backup plugin that packages files and the database together. Always take a backup first.
After moving to a new domain
Set up 301 redirects from old URLs to new ones so you keep your Google rankings. Our redirect generator writes the rules. If you work with exported data files, the JSON formatter helps you read them.
Want the full picture? This article is part of Business websites: the complete guide, our in-depth guide with everything in one place.
