Redirect Mapper

Redirects are essential when you change URLs, migrate sites, or consolidate content. Proper redirect implementation preserves your SEO value and ensures users find the content they're looking for.

301 vs 302 Redirects

• 301 (Permanent): Use when the move is permanent. Passes ~90-99% of link equity.
• 302 (Temporary): Use for temporary moves. Search engines may keep indexing the original URL.
• When in doubt, use 301: Most URL changes are permanent.

When to Use Redirects

• URL structure changes: /blog/post to /articles/post
• Domain migrations: old-domain.com to new-domain.com
• HTTPS migration: HTTP to HTTPS (though prefer HSTS)
• Content consolidation: Multiple pages merged into one
• Deleted pages: Redirect to relevant alternative content
• Slug changes: URL-friendly name updates

Redirect Mapping Process

1. Export all current URLs from your sitemap or crawl
2. Identify which URLs will change
3. Map each old URL to the most relevant new URL
4. Prioritize high-traffic and high-authority pages
5. Test redirects before going live
6. Monitor for 404 errors after launch

Common Redirect Mistakes

• Redirect chains: A -> B -> C. Redirect directly A -> C.
• Redirect loops: A -> B -> A. Causes infinite loops.
• Wrong redirect type: Using 302 when 301 is appropriate.
• Blanket redirects: Redirecting all old pages to homepage.
• Missing redirects: Forgetting pages, creating 404s.
• Not updating internal links: Redirects should be temporary; update links.

Testing Redirects

How Long to Keep Redirects

Keep redirects in place for at least 1 year, ideally permanently. Google recommends keeping them "forever" since you can't control external links. Old links may continue to receive traffic for years.