Website Migration Checklist

Clearly outline why you are migrating and what you want to achieve

Document all pages, files, integrations, and third-party tools

Create a detailed schedule with key deadlines and dependencies

Define who is responsible for each aspect of the migration

Create safe spaces to test changes before going live

Create full backups of files, databases, and configurations

Ensure HTTPS is properly configured for security

Transfer data and verify all database operations work correctly

Extract high-traffic pages from Google Analytics to prioritize migration

Use tools like Ahrefs or SEMrush to identify pages with valuable backlinks

Identify content that performs well on social media platforms

Use tools like Screaming Frog to create a complete site inventory

Combine traffic, backlink, and crawl data to create migration priority list

Review content quality, relevance, and SEO optimization

Transfer and optimize title tags, meta descriptions, and schema markup

Ensure all internal links point to correct new URLs

Compress images and ensure proper alt text and file names

Verify contact forms, search, user registration, and checkout processes

Test on different browsers, devices, and screen sizes

Test that old URLs properly redirect to new ones with 301 status in staging

Ensure new site meets or exceeds previous performance metrics

Point domain to new hosting environment

Update Google Search Console and Bing Webmaster Tools

Ensure all analytics and tracking continue to work properly

Test redirects on the live environment to ensure they work correctly

Watch for 404 errors, broken links, and performance issues

Monitor keyword rankings and organic traffic changes

Contact partners to update links pointing to your site