Short answer: before redesigning, list every URL that gets traffic, map each one to its new URL, and set up 301 redirects on launch day. Migrate data on a staging copy, test on real phones, then monitor Search Console for a few weeks. Most "we lost our rankings" stories come from skipping the redirect map.
Before the redesign
- Export all URLs (sitemap + Search Console pages with clicks).
- Note top pages, top keywords and current conversions.
- Take a full backup of files and database.
- List what works today and must not break.
During the build
- Build on a staging link, not the live site.
- Keep or improve content on pages that rank.
- Prepare a URL map: old URL → new URL.
- Migrate products, users, orders and enquiries; verify counts match.
Launch day
| Task | Check |
|---|---|
| 301 redirects | Every old URL lands on the right new page |
| Sitemap | New sitemap submitted in Search Console |
| Forms & payments | Test real submissions and a small payment |
| Speed | Images compressed, caching on |
| Analytics | GA4 and conversions firing |
Monthly maintenance routine
- Backups verified (try a restore occasionally).
- Security updates and SSL renewal checked.
- Broken links and form tests.
- Search Console coverage and Core Web Vitals review.
- Content refresh for top pages.
Need help? See website redesign and website maintenance.
Example: on The Hakiman's live store we fixed cart, mobile and security issues without a full rebuild — see our Ayurvedic e-commerce guide.
Frequently asked questions
Will a redesign hurt my Google rankings?
Not if old URLs are redirected with 301s and ranking content is kept or improved; expect small fluctuations for a few weeks.
How often should a website be maintained?
Backups and updates monthly at minimum; live stores need closer monitoring.
Sources & references
| Source | Checked |
|---|---|
| Google Search Central — Site moves with URL changes | Oct 2026 |
| Google Search Central — Redirects | Oct 2026 |
Prices in this article are approximate. Spotted an error? Email admin@2ndcode.com — see our editorial policy.