When migrating or redesigning your website, preserving SEO rankings requires careful planning and execution. Here's how to maintain your search visibility during the transition:

Document Current URL Structure

• Create a spreadsheet listing all existing URLs before migration
• Map old URLs to their new counterparts
• Track redirects and changes systematically

Preserve Domain Authority

• Keep your existing domain name whenever possible
• Transfer or map your domain to the new platform
• Maintain consistent domain structure across the migration

Match URL Patterns

• Replicate existing URL slugs on the new platform
• Maintain consistent URL structure for key pages
• Update internal links to reflect new URL patterns

Implement 301 Redirects

• Set up permanent redirects from old URLs to new ones
• Ensure all legacy URLs properly redirect to their new destinations
• Monitor redirect chains and fix any broken links

Create Custom Error Pages

• Design a user-friendly 404 error page
• Include navigation options on error pages
• Explain recent platform changes if relevant

Post-Migration Steps

1. Submit new sitemap to search engines
2. Use Google Search Console to monitor indexing
3. Request crawling of new URLs
4. Monitor search performance
5. Fix any discovered indexing issues

By following these steps, you can minimize ranking drops and maintain search visibility during your site migration. Continue monitoring performance and addressing issues for several weeks after the transition.

Remember to regularly check:

• Search console reports
• Crawl errors
• Redirect functionality
• Site performance metrics
• Organic traffic patterns

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