Changing Your Domain on Squarespace
TL;DR:
- Add your new domain and set it as primary in your Squarespace settings
- Reindex your site with Google Search Console and Bing Webmaster Tools to protect SEO
- Update all your online profiles and integrations with the new domain
- Keep your old domain active for a while to redirect visitors smoothly
Step 1: Add Your New Primary Domain
When you're rebranding or changing your site name, you'll need a new domain to match. Squarespace gives you three ways to handle this:
- Register a new domain directly through Squarespace
- Transfer your existing domain to your Squarespace account
- Connect a domain you already own from another provider
Once your new domain is working, set it as your primary domain. This automatically redirects all traffic from any other domains connected to your site, so visitors always end up in the right place.
Quick tip: If you register a new Squarespace domain and change your mind within five days, you can rename it for free.
Step 2: Reindex Your Site with Search Engines
Domain changes can mess with your search rankings temporarily. Here's how to smooth things over:
- Add your new domain to Google Search Console and verify it
- Use Google's Change of Address tool to tell them about the switch
- Do the same with Bing's Webmaster Tools
These steps help search engines understand what's happening and keep your site visible.
Step 3: Update Everything Else
Your new domain needs to be updated everywhere it appears:
- Website content like titles, descriptions, and any mentions of your old URL
- Social media profiles on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and anywhere else you've listed your website
- Third-party tools like Google Analytics, email marketing platforms, and any other integrations
This keeps everything consistent and stops visitors getting confused about where they've ended up.
Worth noting: While Squarespace will redirect traffic from your old URLs, updating them everywhere reinforces your rebrand properly.
Step 4: What to Do with Your Old Domain
Don't rush to dump your old domain. Keeping it active helps your visitors adjust to the change:
- Keep the old domain connected so it redirects traffic to your new site
- Turn off auto-renew if you plan to let it expire eventually
Removing the old domain too quickly leads to broken links and lost traffic. Give people time to get used to the change.
FAQs
Can I change my primary domain myself?
Yes, you can add and set a new primary domain directly in your Squarespace settings without needing technical help.
What happens to my SEO when I change domains?
Your search rankings might dip temporarily, but you can minimise this by reindexing through Google Search Console and updating all your links properly.
Should I keep my old domain after switching?
Keep it active for at least a few months. This redirects old visitors to your new site and gives everyone time to update their bookmarks.
How long does it take for the new domain to work?
New domains usually start working within 24 hours, but DNS changes can take up to 72 hours to fully propagate.
Jargon Buster
Domain: Your website's address that people type into their browser
Primary Domain: The main web address for your site that all other domains redirect to
SEO: Search Engine Optimisation – techniques to help your site show up in search results
DNS: Domain Name System – the internet's way of translating domain names into website locations
Google Search Console: Google's free tool for monitoring how your site performs in search results
Wrap-up
Changing domains doesn't have to break your online presence. The key is managing the details carefully and using the right tools to keep everything running smoothly. Take your time with each step and don't rush to disconnect your old domain.
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