A redirect sends visitors from one address to another. Use it when a page genuinely moves, and choose a destination that still answers the original reader's question. Redirecting every retired article to the homepage can leave people without the information they came to find.
01
Decide whether the move is permanent
Google distinguishes permanent redirects, such as 301 or 308, from temporary redirects, such as 302 or 307. A permanent redirect signals that the new destination should replace the old address. Ask your developer to match the implementation to the actual move rather than choosing a status merely because it is familiar.
02
Map topics before changing URLs
Build a two-column list of old and new addresses. Check that language, service and purpose match. A Spanish explanation of removal costs should not redirect to an English contact form just because both pages concern reputation. Where content has no equivalent, discuss an accurate removal response instead of inventing a substitute.
- Confirm that the destination loads and is publicly accessible.
- Update navigation and links you control to the destination.
- Avoid unnecessary chains through several old page addresses.
- Check canonical references and sitemap entries after the move.
03
Example of a clean migration
An agency consolidates two overlapping guides about correcting outdated biographies into one stronger guide. Redirect each old address to the relevant combined guide, preserve useful examples and update internal links. Test both old links on a phone. Keep an inventory so a future redesign does not accidentally revive obsolete addresses or break the same journey again.
Frequently asked questions
Will a redirect guarantee that rankings transfer?
No. It helps communicate a move, but search visibility depends on many factors. Monitor indexing, visits and broken links after implementation rather than promising identical rankings.
Is a canonical tag the same thing?
No. A canonical reference signals a preferred URL, while a redirect sends the visitor elsewhere. They serve different purposes and should support a consistent plan.
Continue with your next step
Related guides on this topic
Sources and policies
Check the current policy before submitting a request.
You do not have to figure out the next step alone.
Share the URLs and explain your concern. We will review the context and explain which options are worth assessing.
Request a confidential reviewOr call (307) 429-2531Educational information, not legal advice. Outcomes depend on the facts and decisions made by third parties.