301 vs 302 Redirects and SEO
Redirects send a visitor, and a search engine, from one URL to another. Choosing the right type matters for SEO, because it tells Google whether the change is permanent or temporary — and whether to move your hard-won rankings across to the new address.
Getting this wrong during a site change is one of the most common and most avoidable causes of lost traffic we encounter.
The Key Difference
The number signals your intent to search engines, and they treat the two very differently.
Choosing Correctly
Use a 301 whenever a page has moved for good, such as a renamed URL, a merged page or a domain change. Reserve a 302 for genuinely temporary situations — a short campaign page or maintenance. Using a 302 by mistake for a permanent move can leave your rankings stranded on a URL that no longer exists.
| Type | Meaning | SEO effect |
|---|---|---|
| 301 | Permanent move | Passes ranking signals to the new URL |
| 302 | Temporary move | Keeps signals on the original URL |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which should I use when changing a URL for good?
A 301. It tells Google the move is permanent and transfers your rankings to the new address.
Do redirects slow things down?
A single redirect is negligible. Long chains of redirects do add up, so we keep them direct.
If you need a hand with any of this, your Progressive Robot delivery team is ready to help. Raise a ticket from the Support area of your client portal or speak to your account manager and we will guide you through the next steps.