Understanding URL Redirects

URL redirects forward traffic from inactive pages to active ones, ensuring visitors don't encounter broken links. There are two main types of redirects:

301 (Permanent) Redirects:

• Used for permanent URL changes
• Transfers search engine rankings to new pages
• Ideal for changed URLs, deleted pages, or domain changes
• Original URL must not exist, and new URL must be active

302 (Temporary) Redirects:

• Used for temporary URL changes
• Maintains original page rankings
• Perfect for seasonal content or temporary updates
• Common for rotating store offerings

Creating URL Redirects:

1. Open Developer tools panel
2. Click URL mappings
3. Add redirects using proper formatting
4. Click Save

Basic Redirect Format:

/old-url -> /new-url 301

Collection Page Redirect Format:

/old-collection/[name] -> /new-collection/[name] 301

Important Guidelines:

• Keep consistent capitalization
• Avoid ?, &, or # symbols
• Place specific redirects above broader ones
• 400 KB limit (approximately 2500 redirect lines)
• Redirects only work if original page is deleted/disabled
• Can't redirect from homepage (/)

Common Use Cases:

1. Changed Page URLs:

/about -> /team 301

2. Deleted Pages:

/history -> / 301

3. Seasonal Content:

/summer-sale -> /fall-sale 302

4. External Domains:

/fundraiser -> https://external-site.com 301

Troubleshooting:

• Verify redirect formatting
• Ensure destination pages are active
• Check for redirect loops
• Confirm proper redirect type (301 vs. 302)
• Monitor character limits and syntax

For RSS feeds, remove query parameters from original URLs:

/feed -> /new-feed 301

Remember to regularly clean up inactive redirects and prioritize specific redirects over broader ones for optimal performance.

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