How to Transfer Your Existing Website to Squarespace: Step-by-Step Guide
Migrating your existing website to Squarespace involves importing content, transferring domains, and setting up your new site. Here's a comprehensive guide to make the transition smooth and effective.
What Can Be Migrated
- Domains: Transfer existing domains or register new ones through Squarespace
- Website Content: Import blog posts, products, and podcasts (layout and design cannot be imported)
Managing Your Old Site
Keep your old site active until the new one is complete. Make your Squarespace site private during development by adding password protection. This prevents having two live sites simultaneously.
Step-by-Step Migration Process
- Create Your New Site
- Start a 14-day free trial (no credit card required)
- Choose a template or start from scratch
- Add necessary pages
- Upload content
- Customize design elements
- Import Existing Content
- Pages and blog posts: From WordPress, Blogger, and Tumblr
- Products: From Big Cartel, Etsy, Shopify, or via CSV
- Podcasts: From Blogger, Tumblr, WordPress, or SoundCloud
- Handle Your Domain
- Transfer existing domain to Squarespace
- Connect domain if transfer isn't possible
- Register a new domain through Squarespace
- Annual plans include one free domain for the first year
- Upgrade to Paid Service
- Choose appropriate plan
- Available in monthly or annual billing cycles
- Annual billing offers lower monthly costs
- Keep site private until ready to launch
- Cancel Old Service
- Wait until new site is fully operational
- Maintain domain registration if using connected domain
- Verify all services before canceling
Important Considerations
SEO Impact
- Temporary ranking fluctuations are normal
- Follow SEO best practices to minimize impact
Mobile Optimization
- Automatically included
- Built-in mobile styles ensure proper display
- Mobile preview tools available
Additional Features
- Customizable with CSS and custom code
- "Made with Squarespace" message can be removed
- 24/7 customer support available
- Option to hire Squarespace Experts for professional help
Remember to use the launch checklist before going live and consider extending your trial if needed for final adjustments.
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