Introduction to Site Moves
Google’s John Mueller recently discussed how Google handles site moves, particularly when a site is partially moved from one domain to another. A standard site move is generally fine, but things get complicated when it comes to partial site moves.
What is a Standard Site Move?
A standard site move involves moving an entire site from one domain to another. In this case, Mueller stated that it’s generally fine to use Google Search Console’s change of address feature, even if a few old URLs still get traffic and aren’t redirected yet. However, the tool does check for the homepage redirect.
The Problem with Partial Site Moves
Things get messy when a site is partially moved, with some pages staying on the old domain while others are moved to the new one. Mueller explained that this won’t be seen as a full site move, and using the change of address tool will lead to a messy situation until everything is moved over. This can cause problems with tracking and Google’s understanding of the site.
Google’s Understanding of a Website
Mueller’s comments highlight the importance of Google’s understanding of a website. This refers to how Google sees the site in relation to its domain name and how it fits into the overall internet. A partial site move can make it hard for Google to understand the site, leading to challenges with tracking and potentially affecting the site’s performance.
The Challenges of Partial Site Moves
Partial site moves can be challenging, and Mueller recommends cleaning up the site properly as soon as possible. This means moving all pages to the new domain and avoiding a situation where some pages are on the old domain while others are on the new one. Even properly planned and executed site migrations can be hard, and a partial move makes it much more challenging.
Best Practices for Site Moves
To avoid problems with site moves, it’s essential to plan and execute the move carefully. This includes redirecting all pages, updating the site’s structure, and using Google Search Console’s change of address feature. It’s also important to avoid combining site moves with other big changes, as this can cause further complications.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while standard site moves are generally fine, partial site moves can cause problems with Google’s understanding of a website. It’s essential to plan and execute site moves carefully, avoiding partial moves and combining moves with other big changes. By following best practices and taking the time to properly move a site, website owners can avoid common pitfalls and ensure a smooth transition to a new domain.