How to Change the URL of an Existing Shopify Store to a New Domain or Sub-Domain

Introduction

One of the most significant aspects of running a successful online store is ensuring a stable and user-friendly URL. If you are operating a Shopify store and need to switch to a new domain or sub-domain, the process is straightforward but requires careful execution to prevent any disruption or broken links. In this guide, we will walk you through the steps to change your Shopify store’s URL and ensure a seamless transition.

Understanding the Process of Changing Shopify Store URL

Changing the URL of your Shopify store involves a series of steps, starting from the domain settings in your Shopify admin panel to setting up proper redirects for smooth navigation and SEO optimization.

Step 1: Purchasing a New Domain

Before updating your Shopify store's domain, you will need to purchase a new domain. This can be done directly through Shopify or through a third-party domain registrar. Shopify offers a quick and easy way to purchase a new domain within your store’s admin panel.

Step 2: Updating Domain Settings in Shopify Admin Panel

Once your new domain is purchased, navigate to the 'Online Store' section and then to 'Domains'. Here, you can add your new domain and set it as the primary domain for your store. This step is crucial as it directly impacts the URL structure of your shop.

Step 3: Setting Up Redirects to Maintain SEO

To avoid any loss of traffic, it is essential to set up proper redirects from your old domain to the new one. Shopify allows you to manage redirects through the same 'Domains' section. Configure redirects from your old domain to the new one using a 301 redirect (permanent redirect) to maintain SEO value and ensure users and search engines are always directed to the correct pages.

Step 4: Updating Internal Links and Bookmarks

Ensure that internal links within your Shopify store are updated to reflect the new domain. Additionally, update any bookmarks and marketing materials that contain the old URL to the new one. This step is vital to maintain user trust and prevent any issues with broken links.

Conclusion

Changing the URL of your Shopify store is a straightforward process when you follow the steps outlined in this article. Ensure you set up proper redirects and update all relevant links and materials to maintain user experience and SEO performance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use a third-party domain registrar to purchase a new domain?

A: Yes, you can purchase a new domain from a third-party domain registrar and then add it to your Shopify store through the 'Domains' section in your admin panel.

Q: What is the difference between a 301 and 302 redirect?

A: A 301 redirect is a permanent redirect which tells search engines that the content has permanently moved to a new URL. A 302 redirect is a temporary redirect and is used when the new URL is not permanent and might change later. For changing a domain, a 301 redirect is recommended to preserve SEO value.

Additional Resources

For further guidance and detailed steps on changing the URL of a Shopify store, refer to the resources provided within your Quora profile.