301 vs 302 Redirects: Which Redirect Should You Use?
Understand the difference between 301 and 302 HTTP redirects, common SEO use cases, redirect chains, redirect loops, and migration mistakes.
What Is an HTTP Redirect?
An HTTP redirect tells a client that a requested URL should be retrieved from another location. Redirects are essential during URL changes, site migrations, HTTPS migrations, and content restructuring.
301 Redirects
A 301 status indicates a permanent redirect. It is commonly used when a URL has permanently moved to another location.
302 Redirects
A 302 status is generally used when the move is temporary. The exact redirect behavior and search-engine processing can depend on the implementation and context.
Common Redirect Problems
Redirect Chains
A chain occurs when URL A redirects to B, which redirects to C. Whenever possible, update links to point directly to the final destination.
Redirect Loops
A loop occurs when redirects eventually send the browser back to a URL it already visited. This prevents the destination from loading correctly.
Incorrect Redirect Destinations
Do not automatically redirect every removed URL to the homepage. Choose a relevant destination when one exists.
Redirect checks belong in a broader technical SEO audit.
Conclusion
Choose redirects based on whether the URL change is permanent or temporary, and keep redirect paths as simple as possible.