301 or 302? Redirects explained simply

The most important codes

• 301 (Moved Permanently): permanently moved. Search engines replace the old address with the new one.
• 308 (Permanent Redirect): like 301, except that the request method is preserved – usually equivalent for websites.
• 302 (Found) and 307 (Temporary Redirect): temporary. The old address remains the actual one.

When 301 is the right choice

In the event of a relaunch, a new URL structure, a domain change, or a switch to HTTPS, the move is permanent. Then 301 is correct: Google adds the new address to the index and transfers the signals from the old one.

When 302 is useful

A 302 redirect is suitable when the destination should change – for example, for a seasonal campaign, a maintenance notice, or a test page. Browsers do not permanently remember 302 redirects; they request the new location each time.

Why use dynamic QR codes 302

A dynamic QR code is essentially a redirect whose target you want to change. If it responded with 301, browsers could save the first target and jump to it after a change. Same-QR therefore responds with 302 and without caching – each scan retrieves the current target. For your website itself, however, the rule during a relaunch remains: permanent moves with 301.

Common mistakes

• Setting up permanent moves with 302 – the old address often remains in the index for longer.
• Redirects via JavaScript or Meta-Refresh instead of on the server.
• Chains of multiple redirects in sequence.

Frequently asked questions