Domain change without SEO loss: step by step
Preparation
- Register a new domain and set up HTTPS early.
- Confirm both domains in Google Search Console.
- Create a redirect map: each old URL to the corresponding new one.
- Update internal links, sitemap, and canonical tags to the new domain.
The move
On moving day, all pages of the old domain are redirected via 301 to the corresponding page of the new domain – not to the homepage. After that, you report the move in Search Console using the address change feature and submit the new sitemap.
Keep the old domain
Do not let the old domain expire. As long as it is registered and forwards, old links, bookmarks, and printed addresses remain effective. If it expires, someone else can register it and send your visitors to unrelated content.
Printed materials
Business cards, vehicle markings and packaging often still bear the old address for years. A dynamic QR code points to your website via a unique, consistent short address; after changing the domain, you only change the target.
Frequently asked questions
Usually a few weeks, for large sites even longer. During this time, both domains may appear in the search results.
Possible, but riskier. If possible, move the domain first and revise the content later – then problems can be assigned more clearly.
At least one year, preferably permanently. The cost of a domain is low compared to the value of the links.
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