What you need to know about Google Change of Address feature GSC

What You Need to Know About Google Change of Address Tool Inside Search Console

ByVictor

The Google Search Console (GSC) Change of Address Tool is essential when migrating your website to a new domain. 

It helps inform Google about your move, ensuring a smooth transition in search rankings and indexing.

Key Things to Know About GSC Change of Address Tool

1) Purpose of the Tool (When to Use Change of Address Feature)

The tool helps Google understand that your site has permanently moved from one domain to another, so it can transfer search rankings, indexed pages, and SEO signals to the new domain.

When to use it:

  • Moving from example.com to newexample.com
  • Changing your domain extension, e.g., from .co.ke to .com
  • Migrating to a different brand or rebranding

When NOT to use it:

  • Changing URLs within the same domain (example.com/page1 → example.com/page2)
  • Moving from HTTP to HTTPS (Google handles this automatically)
  • Switching from www to non-www (handled in settings)

2) How to Inform Google of Website Adress Change Inside Search Console

Follow these steps in Google Search Console:

  • Add and verify the new domain in GSC.
  • You must be the property owner for both properties
  • Set up proper 301 redirects from old URLs to corresponding new URLs.
  • Update internal links to point to the new domain.
  • Use the Change of Address tool:
    • Open GSC and select your old domain.
    • Click Settings > Change of Address.
    • Choose the new domain and confirm.
  • Monitor migration progress using GSC reports.

3) Impact on SEO

  • Rankings may fluctuate initially, but Google should retain SEO signals if redirects are correct.
  • Traffic may drop temporarily, but should stabilize once Google processes the move.
  • Backlinks remain intact, but reach out to high-authority sites to update links.

4) Common Issues and Fixes

  • Redirects not working → Ensure all old pages use 301 (permanent) redirects.
  • Indexing issues → Submit the new sitemap in GSC.
  • Slow transfer → Migration can take weeks; track via GSC’s “Index Coverage” and “Redirect” reports.
  • Crawl errors → Use GSC’s URL Inspection tool to check if Google is indexing correctly.

5) Best Practices for a Smooth Migration

  • Keep both domains (properties) verified in GSC until migration is complete.
  • Submit sitemaps for both old and new domains.
  • Update Google Analytics and other tools with the new domain.
  • Check for broken links using tools like Screaming Frog or Ahrefs.
  • Inform users and update email footers, social media, and business directories.

Change of Website Address FAQs

How long does it take for the Change of Address to take effect?

Typically, it takes 2 to 4 weeks for the Change of Address to fully process in Google Search Console. Ensure that 301 redirects are properly set up to facilitate this transition.

What should I do if the Change of Address tool isn’t working?

If the tool isn’t detecting your newly configured redirects, it might be a temporary issue on Google’s end. 

It’s advisable to wait 24 to 48 hours and then try again.

Does the Change of Address tool support HTTP to HTTPS migrations?

No, the tool is not necessary for HTTP to HTTPS migrations. Google handles these transitions automatically.

How can I ensure my redirects are correctly set up?

Google’s Change of Address tool includes a feature that validates the top five URLs of your moving domain. 

This helps confirm that your redirects are functioning properly.

Can I reverse a Change of Address request?

Yes, to reverse a Change of Address:

  • Remove all 301 redirects from the old domain to the new domain.
  • Set up 301 redirects from the new domain back to the old domain.
  • Cancel the Change of Address in Google Search Console.

Keep in mind that reversing this process can take time, and you might experience fluctuations in traffic during the transition.

Are there any best practices to follow during a Change of Address?

Yes, consider the following:

  • Keep both the old and new domains verified in Google Search Console.
  • Submit sitemaps for both domains.
  • Monitor traffic and indexing status regularly.
  • Maintain consistent content and design between the old and new sites to help users and search engines understand the move.

Final Thoughts

Using the GSC Change of Address Tool correctly can preserve your SEO rankings and prevent loss of traffic. 

Just ensure that redirects, sitemaps, and indexing settings are in place before initiating the change.

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