A stress-free migration starts with preparation. Lay the groundwork with these steps before touching a single file:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Backup everything: <\/strong>Export your website\u2019s files, databases, and emails. If your current platform lacks built-in tools, use third-party plugins or manual downloads via SFTP<\/a>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Audit your current site:<\/strong> Document every page, plugin, form, integration (e.g., payment gateways), and custom code. This helps to ensure nothing gets lost in transit.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Choose the right host: <\/strong>Prioritize providers with WordPress-optimized servers, 24\/7 support<\/a>, and scalability<\/a>. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
WordPress-to-WordPress migration tips
<\/h3>\n\n\n\nMoving an existing WordPress site to a new host is the simpler scenario, but there are still some things you have to consider before you make the move: <\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Compare hosting environments: <\/strong>Ensure the new host supports your site\u2019s PHP version, database type (e.g., MySQL), and server resources (RAM, storage).<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Test on a staging site: <\/strong>Some hosts offer staging environments<\/a>. You can use a staging site to trial the migration and catch issues like plugin conflicts or broken themes before going live. WP Engine includes staging sites with every hosting plan<\/a>. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Non-WordPress to WordPress migration tips<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Migrating from platforms like Wix, Squarespace, or a custom CMS is a steeper hill to climb than moving a WordPress site to a different host. Focus on:<\/p>\n\n\n\n- \n
- Export compatibility: <\/strong>Check if your current platform allows XML\/CSV exports (common in Squarespace or Shopify). For static HTML sites, manually copy text and images.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- URL structure strategy:<\/strong> WordPress uses customizable permalinks<\/a> (Settings > Permalinks). Plan how to mirror existing URLs or set up redirects if changes are unavoidable.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Email hosting:<\/strong> If emails are tied to your old host, migrate them to a dedicated service (e.g., Amazon SES) before<\/em> switching DNS settings.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Content migration strategies<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Whether you\u2019re moving an existing WordPress site or transitioning from another platform, these tools and methods will streamline the process while minimizing downtime.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
WordPress-to-WordPress content migrations
<\/h3>\n\n\n\nIt\u2019s entirely possible to migrate a WordPress site manually<\/a>, but it\u2019s a complicated process with a lot of steps, and therefore, a lot of different ways it can go wrong. It\u2019s easier to use a plugin like WP Migrate<\/a>. This powerful plugin simplifies moving databases, themes, plugins, and media between WordPress installations. Its “push\/pull” feature lets you sync content directly between the old and new sites, making it ideal for partial or full migrations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Your new host may have a tool that simplifies site migration. For example, the WP Engine Automated Migration<\/a> plugin not only automates the migration process, but it also allows you to verify everything before you change your DNS, ensuring users don\u2019t experience any roadblocks in visiting your site. The plugin also gives you updates as the migration progresses. Depending on the size of your site, the migration process can take less than an hour. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/wpengine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/automated-migration-tab-1024x513.png\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nWP Engine also offers free, fully managed migrations<\/a> for qualifying customers. This process removes the burden completely, providing peace of mind and letting you focus on running your business. The big advantage of a managed migration is that WP Engine handles all of the technical details, from planning to execution. This gets you to market faster while minimizing risk.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Non-WordPress to WordPress content migrations<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Moving to WordPress from platforms like Wix, Squarespace, or a custom CMS requires some additional work. In general, you should follow something like this framework:<\/p>\n\n\n\n- \n
- Export your content.<\/strong> Use your current platform\u2019s native export tools (e.g., Squarespace\u2019s \u201cExport\u201d feature or Wix\u2019s \u201cDownload Site\u201d option) to save pages, blogs, and product data. For static HTML sites, manually copy text and download images.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Import into WordPress.<\/strong> For blog posts or pages, you can use WordPress\u2019s built-in Tools > Import<\/strong> feature for XML\/CSV files. For media files, you can bulk-upload images via the WordPress Media Library or use a plugin to auto-import images from old URLs.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Migrate to your new host. This step depends significantly on your host. Some hosts, including WP Engine, have automated migration tools<\/a> to transfer the newly built WordPress site. <\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n
Design and functionality setup<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
With your content successfully migrated, the next step is to ensure your site\u2019s design aligns with your brand and that all critical features work as intended. Next, we\u2019ll look at how to streamline this process without compromising user experience or security.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Choosing a WordPress theme
<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSelect a theme that balances aesthetics with performance. In general, lightweight, mobile-responsive themes are good choices, as they load quickly and adapt well to different devices. Prioritize themes with built-in customization options through the WordPress Customizer<\/a> or popular page builders, which allow you to tweak layouts, colors, and fonts without coding. Avoid overly complex themes that could slow down your site or clash with plugins.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Handling redirects and links
<\/h3>\n\n\n\nIf your migration involves changes to URLs, you will need to set up 301 redirects. This prevents visitors from encountering broken links and preserves your SEO rankings. After launching, conduct a thorough audit of internal links using tools like Broken Link Checker<\/a>, and update any paths that no longer align with your new structure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This is another area where the right host saves you time and energy. The WP Engine User Portal gives you access to the Web Rules Engine<\/a>, allowing you to set site rules, including rewrite rules<\/a> for 301 redirects. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/wpengine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/add-rewrite-rule-1500x860-1-1024x587.png\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nIntegrating third-party tools<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Reconnect tools like email marketing platforms, analytics software, or payment gateways <\/a>by installing compatible WordPress plugins. Test each integration on a staging site first to identify conflicts with your theme or hosting environment. For example, ensure that any tracking codes are properly reinstalled and that eCommerce plugins function smoothly during checkout.<\/p>\n\n\n\nSEO preservation checklist<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Migrating your site without preserving SEO is like moving to a new house but neglecting to update your address\u2014customers (and search engines) won\u2019t know where to find you. Follow the steps below to safeguard your rankings and traffic.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Conduct a pre-migration audit
<\/h3>\n\n\n\nBefore making changes, crawl your existing site using tools like Screaming Frog<\/a>. Document critical details such as URLs, meta titles, descriptions, backlinks, and high-performing pages. This audit serves as a baseline to identify what needs protection, ensuring no crucial SEO elements are overlooked during the transition.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Plan URL structure consistency
<\/h3>\n\n\n\nAs we mentioned earlier, WordPress allows you to customize permalinks via Settings > Permalinks<\/strong>. Aim to mirror your old URL structure to maintain search engine recognition. If changes are unavoidable, implement 301 redirects immediately. This ensures users and search engines are guided to the new pages.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Update internal links<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Internal links pointing to outdated URLs can fragment user experience and harm SEO. You can use something like WP Migrate\u2019s Find & Replace<\/a> function to update links within posts, pages, and menus. For larger sites, consider consulting a developer to safely execute database queries.<\/p>\n\n\n\nSubmit a new sitemap<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Generate an updated XML sitemap<\/a> using a plugin such as Yoast SEO or Rank Math, or create it manually<\/a>. Submit the new sitemap to search engines to expedite re-indexing and ensure search engines quickly recognize your new site structure.<\/p>\n\n\n\nMonitor post-launch performance
<\/h3>\n\n\n\nAfter migration, monitor Google Search Console for crawl errors and traffic fluctuations. Tools like Google Analytics or Ahrefs can track keyword rankings and backlink health. Address 404 errors promptly by adding redirects or updating internal links. Keep a close eye for 2\u20134 weeks to catch any lingering issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Launch and post-migration best practices<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
The final steps of your migration are critical to ensuring a smooth transition. Follow these strategies to minimize disruptions, maintain performance, and address issues before they impact your business.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Final testing
<\/h3>\n\n\n\nConduct rigorous testing before launching your new site. Start with a staging environment to verify that all pages render correctly across browsers and devices. Test interactive elements like contact forms, checkout flows, and login portals to ensure they function as expected. If your site uses third-party services\u2014such as payment gateways or appointment schedulers\u2014confirm they\u2019re properly connected and processing data.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
DNS cutover strategy<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
DNS changes are made through your DNS provider\u2019s website (e.g., GoDaddy, Cloudflare), not <\/em>your hosting account\u2019s dashboard. Follow these steps to direct your domain to the new host:<\/p>\n\n\n\n1. Prepare in advance<\/strong>
<\/p>\n\n\n\n24\u201348 hours before the cutover, lower your domain\u2019s TTL (Time to Live) in your DNS provider\u2019s dashboard. Look for \u201cDNS Settings\u201d or \u201cAdvanced DNS.\u201d TTL determines how long DNS information is cached. Lowering it (e.g., to 300 seconds) ensures faster updates after the final switch.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
2. Pick the right time<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Schedule the DNS change during low-traffic hours (e.g., weekends, late nights). Check analytics tools to identify quiet periods.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
3. Update DNS records<\/strong>
<\/p>\n\n\n\nIn your DNS provider\u2019s dashboard, update the A Record (to point to your new host\u2019s IP address) or <\/em>use CNAME flattening. <\/em>Your hosting provider will usually specify which method to use. WP Engine recommends CNAME flattening<\/a>, but only if it\u2019s supported by your DNS provider. If you\u2019re hosting with WP Engine, you may also be able to use Entri Connect<\/a> to automatically point your domain to WP Engine. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/wpengine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/connect-with-entri-1024x666.png\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n4. Wait for propagation<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
DNS changes can take up to 48 hours to propagate globally. During this time, some visitors may see the old site, others the new one. Avoid making additional changes to prevent confusion.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
5. Confirm the change<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
- Import into WordPress.<\/strong> For blog posts or pages, you can use WordPress\u2019s built-in Tools > Import<\/strong> feature for XML\/CSV files. For media files, you can bulk-upload images via the WordPress Media Library or use a plugin to auto-import images from old URLs.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- URL structure strategy:<\/strong> WordPress uses customizable permalinks<\/a> (Settings > Permalinks). Plan how to mirror existing URLs or set up redirects if changes are unavoidable.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Test on a staging site: <\/strong>Some hosts offer staging environments<\/a>. You can use a staging site to trial the migration and catch issues like plugin conflicts or broken themes before going live. WP Engine includes staging sites with every hosting plan<\/a>. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
- Audit your current site:<\/strong> Document every page, plugin, form, integration (e.g., payment gateways), and custom code. This helps to ensure nothing gets lost in transit.<\/li>\n\n\n\n