How to Export Your Squarespace Site to WordPress
TL;DR:
- Export specific content from Squarespace to an .xml file for WordPress use
- Keep your Squarespace site active during export for best results
- Import directly to WordPress.com to ensure images transfer correctly
- Some content types like custom CSS won't export
- Use the Import & Export panel in Squarespace to start the export process
Step-by-Step Guide to Exporting Your Squarespace Content
To move your content from Squarespace to WordPress, you'll need to follow these steps carefully.
Before You Begin
Keep your site active and published to avoid any issues during the export. If your site has expired, you'll need to reactivate your subscription to access and export your content.
Exporting Your Content
- Prepare Your Site: Make sure your site's visibility is set to Public.
- Navigate to Tools: Go to the Import & Export content panel within your settings.
- Initiate Export: Click on the Export button and then select the WordPress icon. Even if you're not moving to WordPress, this format is necessary as the .xml file is universally recognised.
- Choose Content: If your site has multiple blog pages, you'll need to select a primary one as only one can be exported.
- Process the Export: Wait a few minutes for the process to complete. The time taken depends on the volume of content.
Downloading the Exported File
Once the export process is completed, a 'Download' option appears. Click this to save your .xml file, or select 'Clear' to cancel the export.
Importing to WordPress
To get the best results with image transfers:
- Preferred Method: Import directly to WordPress.com to ensure images are copied over to your media library.
- Alternative Method: Use WordPress Importer for self-hosted sites, but you'll need to manually download and upload images to maintain link integrity.
FAQs
Can I transfer content between Squarespace sites?
No, transferring directly between Squarespace sites is not supported and may lead to issues like broken image links.
Why aren't my images transferring when using WordPress Importer?
The WordPress Importer often fails to transfer images unless you're using WordPress.com, where images are copied to their servers.
What content can I actually export from Squarespace?
You can export layout pages, one blog page with all posts, text and image blocks, and some structured content from other blocks. However, styles and custom CSS do not export.
Jargon Buster
.xml File: A type of data file used to transport content between different website platforms.
WordPress Importer: A tool in WordPress used to import content from an .xml file, used primarily for site migration.
Custom CSS: Personalised coding that adjusts the look and feel of a website, which doesn't export directly between platforms.
Wrap-up
Exporting your Squarespace content to WordPress involves a few key steps and decisions, especially regarding how and where you want your images to end up. The process is straightforward if you follow the steps above, but remember that some elements like custom styling won't transfer over. For any missing elements or further help, check the respective platform's support documentation.
Get more expert guidance on website migrations at Pixelhaze Academy