How to Handle URL Redirects During CMS Migration
IntermediateQuick Answer
TL;DR
Handle URL redirects during a content management system (CMS) migration by crawling your existing site to build a complete URL inventory, creating a redirect map that matches old URLs to new ones, and implementing 301 (permanent) redirects at the server or CDN level. Test all redirects in staging before launch, and monitor for 404 errors post-migration using Google Search Console and server logs. Avoid redirect chains, as they dilute link equity and slow page loads.
Key Takeaways
- Crawl your existing site with tools like Screaming Frog or Sitebulb to capture every URL
- Create a spreadsheet mapping each old URL to its new destination
- Implement 301 redirects at the server or CDN level, not in application code
- Monitor Google Search Console for 404 errors and redirect chains after launch