Upgrading to a better domain can boost your brand, but moving an existing website carries real risk if it's done carelessly. The good news: with a careful plan, you can move to a new domain and keep most or all of your search traffic. Here's the checklist we recommend.
Before the move
1. Make a full list of your URLs
Use your sitemap, your analytics and a website crawler to build a complete list of every page on your current site. This list is the backbone of your redirect plan.
2. Record your current performance
Save a snapshot of your traffic, top pages and rankings. You'll use it to spot any problems after the move.
3. Keep the same structure if you can
Moving domains is easiest when page paths stay the same, for example old-domain.com/services becomes new-domain.com/services. Avoid redesigning the whole site at the same time if possible. Make one big change at a time.
4. Set up the new domain
Connect hosting, install SSL, and make sure the new site works completely before you switch.
During the move
5. Add 301 redirects for every page
A 301 redirect tells browsers and search engines that a page has moved permanently. Redirect each old URL to its exact match on the new domain, not just to the homepage. This is the single most important step.
6. Update internal links
Change links within your site so they point directly to the new domain instead of relying on redirects.
7. Update canonical tags and sitemaps
Make sure canonical tags reference the new domain and submit a new sitemap.
After the move
8. Use Google Search Console
Verify both the old and new domains in Google Search Console and use the Change of Address tool. Then submit your new sitemap and monitor indexing.
9. Update your external profiles
Update your Google Business Profile, social media, directories, email signatures and any links you control. Ask important partners to update links to your site.
10. Keep the old domain
Don't let the old domain expire. Keep the redirects in place for at least a year, ideally permanently. Old links and bookmarks will keep sending people to the right place.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Redirecting every page to the homepage
- Letting the old domain expire
- Changing the domain, design and content all at once
- Forgetting to update email and DNS records
Is it worth it?
Moving to a stronger domain can pay off through better branding, easier word of mouth and more trust. If you're thinking about upgrading, read are premium domains worth it? and our guide to choosing a domain name.
Find a better domain
If you've outgrown your current name, browse our premium domains with clear prices and secure checkout through GoDaddy.
Find your next domain
Browse hand-picked premium domains with clear prices and secure checkout through GoDaddy.