Introduction to 3xx Redirection Status Codes: When you visit a website, your browser sends a request to the server. The server responds with a status code. 3xx redirection status codes tell the browser that the requested page has moved.
These codes help users and search engines find the right page. Using the wrong 3xx status code can hurt your SEO. Let’s explore the different types.
Types of 3xx Redirection Status Codes
There are several 3xx redirects, but the most common are 301, 302, and 307. Each has a different purpose.
1. 301 Moved Permanently
A 301 redirect means the page has moved forever. Search engines transfer ranking power to the new URL.
- Use case: Changing a website’s domain or merging pages.
- SEO impact: Best for preserving rankings.
- Example:
example.com/old→example.com/new(permanent move).
Important: Always use 301 redirects for permanent changes.
2. 302 Found (Temporary Redirect)
A 302 redirect means the move is temporary. Search engines keep indexing the original URL.
- Use case: A/B testing, temporary promotions.
- SEO impact: Does not pass full ranking power.
- Example:
example.com/sale→example.com/summer-sale(temporary).
Warning: Don’t use 302 redirects for permanent moves.
3. 307 Temporary Redirect (HTTP/1.1)
A 307 redirect is similar to 302, but it ensures the HTTP method (GET, POST) stays the same.
- Use case: Temporary moves with form submissions.
- SEO impact: Same as 302—keeps original URL indexed.
- Example:
example.com/login→example.com/new-login(temporary).
Other 3xx Status Codes
- 303 See Other: Used for POST requests, redirecting to a new page.
- 304 Not Modified: Tells the browser to use cached content.
Why Are 3xx Redirects Important for SEO?
Using the correct 3xx status code affects how search engines index your site.
- 301 redirects pass 90-99% of link equity to the new URL.
- 302/307 redirects keep the original URL indexed.
- Wrong redirects can cause duplicate content issues.
Best Practice: Audit redirects regularly to fix errors.
How to Implement 3xx Redirects
You can set up redirects using:
- .htaccess (Apache servers)
“`apache
Redirect 301 /old-page.html /new-page.html
2. **Nginx Config** nginx
server {
return 301 /new-page.html;
}
3. **PHP Redirect** php
header(“Location: https://example.com/new-page”, true, 301);
“`
- Plugins (WordPress)
Tools like Redirection or Yoast SEO simplify redirects.
Common Mistakes with 3xx Redirects
- Using 302 instead of 301 for permanent moves.
- Creating redirect chains (multiple hops).
- Forgetting to update internal links after a redirect.
Pro Tip: Use tools like Screaming Frog to check redirect chains.
Conclusion
3xx redirection status codes help users and search engines find the right page. 301 redirects are best for permanent moves, while 302/307 work for temporary changes.
Always choose the right 3xx status code to maintain SEO rankings. Regularly check for broken or incorrect redirects to keep your site healthy.
By understanding 3xx redirects, you can improve user experience and search engine visibility.