302 Redirect
A temporary redirect that tells search engines the move isn't permanent.
A 302 redirect is a temporary redirect. Unlike a 301 (permanent), a 302 tells search engines "this page has moved temporarily, but it'll be back." The original URL should keep its rankings because the move isn't meant to last.
Use a 302 when you're running an A/B test, temporarily showing a different page during maintenance, or redirecting users based on their location or device. The key word is "temporary" — you plan to bring the original URL back eventually.
In practice, search engines sometimes treat long-running 302s as 301s anyway, since they can tell the redirect isn't really temporary. But it's still best practice to use the right code for the right situation.
Common mistake: using a 302 when you actually mean a 301. If you've permanently moved a page, always use a 301 to ensure link equity transfers properly.
Why It Matters for SEO
Using the wrong redirect type confuses search engines. A 302 when you mean 301 can prevent link equity from transferring to your new URL, hurting its ability to rank. Search engines may keep indexing the old URL instead of the new one.
🔍 How to Check This
Run your URLs through AuditMySite's Redirect Checker to see which type of redirect is being used and whether it's the right choice.
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