301 vs 302 vs 307: Which Redirect is Best for SEO?

When I first got my hands on site optimization, redirects felt confusing. I kept asking myself: “Why are there so many different types?” Over time, I learned each type has a specific purpose. If you’re feeling overloaded by all those 301 redirects, 302 redirects, 307s, and everything in between, stick around. I’ll describe everything clearly.

In this post, I’ll explain the different types of redirects and provide examples of when they’re used. After that, I’ll share 15 important dos and don’ts that I’ve gathered from years of trial, error, and research. Then, a brief FAQ answers common questions about redirects.

What Is a Redirect?

A redirect sends visitors (and search engines) from one URL to another. It is a way to reroute traffic, keep the user experience uninterrupted, and maintain or reassign link equity. Sometimes your site changes structure, you relocate content, or you temporarily want visitors to see a different page. That’s when redirects come in.

Redirects are not magic. They are deliberate instructions to browsers and bots, telling them, “This page is actually over here now.” Used correctly, they help keep user confidence high and search engine rankings steady.

Different Types of Redirects

Redirects come in several forms:

301 Redirect (Moved Permanently)

• This is the permanent redirect.
• Tells both search engines and users that the page is gone for good.
• Ideal when you have changed a URL or restructured your site.
• One example: You have consolidated old blog posts. You create a single new post with better content and 301 the old articles to the new one.

302 Redirect (Found)

• Indicates a temporary redirect.
• Suggests that the original page might return in the future.
• Useful for limited-time sales or short-term promotions.
• One example: You run an eCommerce store and want to redirect a product page to a “Coming Soon” page while you restock, planning to reinstate the original page later.

1. 307 Redirect (Temporary Redirect)

• The HTTP/1.1 standard’s version of a temporary redirect, but more strict about preserving the request method (for example, GET or POST).
• Tells browsers the resource is temporarily moved while keeping the HTTP request method unchanged.
• One example: A subscription form’s request method is POST. You redirect visitors to a refreshed page for a short time. A 307 ensures the same method is used if the visitor submits data again.

1. 308 Redirect (Permanent Redirect)

• Similar to a 301 but does not allow changing the request method.
• Informs the browser this page is permanently replaced, and the original request method should be kept.
• Rarely used, but it can be useful in some developer setups.

1. Meta Refresh

• A client-side redirect triggered by HTML meta tags rather than server responses.
• Usually comes with a short countdown (“If you are not redirected in 5 seconds…”).
• Not the best for SEO because search engines can get confused or might not pass link equity as well.
• One example: If you don’t have control over server settings, you may add  in the HTML.

1. JavaScript Redirect

• Another client-side redirect handled in the user’s browser.
• Typically set up using a code snippet like window.location.href = "someURL";.
• Best used only when absolutely necessary, as server-level (3xx) redirects are generally more reliable for SEO.

1. Domain Redirects

• Sometimes entire domains must be redirected.
• For instance, you might point an old brand domain to a new one using a 301.
• It is best to carefully map subpages on the old domain to their new counterparts rather than sending every visitor to the homepage.

Brief Comparison Table

Here’s a quick reference table comparing standard 3xx server-side redirects:

Each redirect type meets particular needs; none is universally superior. Choose the one that best fits your situation.

15 Essential Dos and Don’ts

1. Do Plan Your Redirect Strategy in Advance

• Avoid waiting until the last minute.
• Before changing any URL, think about what will happen to the traffic from the old link.
• Map out which old URLs should point to the new ones.

2. Don’t Create Redirect Chains

• A chain happens when URL A goes to B, then C, then D. That creates a confusing path for both users and search engines.
• It slows page loading and may reduce link equity.
• Whenever possible, keep the redirect direct: A → D.

3. Do Use a 301 for Permanent Moves

• If the old page is permanently removed, use a 301.
• This tells bots to transfer the link equity over.
• It also helps prevent confusion among regular visitors.

4. Don’t Use a 302 When a 301 Is Needed

• A 302 indicates the page might come back, so search engines may continue indexing the old URL.
• This can weaken your SEO efforts.
• Use a 302 only for genuinely temporary changes.

5. Do Monitor Your Site’s Speed

• Adding new redirects can slow down your site slightly.
• Check your site’s loading time after implementing them.
• Tip: Tools like Lighthouse or PageSpeed Insights can help assess performance.

6. Don’t Redirect Every Old URL to Your Homepage

• This shortcut rarely benefits visitors.
• If your old blog post about “Best Running Shoes” now lives on a new domain, direct the redirect to that specific updated page.
• This approach minimizes user confusion and preserves relevant traffic signals.

7. Do Update Your Internal Links

• Once new URLs are mapped out, update your site’s internal links to point directly to them.
• This helps avoid relying on redirects for navigation.
• It also makes for a smoother user experience and better use of your crawl budget.

8. Don’t Overlook Mobile and App Redirects

• If you have a mobile site or deep links in your app, verify that your redirects work correctly across those platforms.
• Mobile users should land on the right, optimized page.

9. Do Test Your Redirects Thoroughly

• Run tests in a staging environment first.
• Tools like Screaming Frog can quickly scan your domain to confirm redirects work as expected.
• Ensure the final destination is correct and that the proper status code is returned.

10. Don’t Rely on Meta Refresh or JavaScript Redirects (Unless Absolutely Necessary)

• Server-level redirects are generally more SEO-friendly and reliable.
• Use meta refresh or JavaScript only when you have no other option.
• If you must use them, keep the countdown as short as possible to avoid confusing visitors.

11. Do Keep Documentation for Every Redirect

• Maintain a simple spreadsheet listing the old URL, new URL, redirect type, date, and any pertinent notes.
• This record proves invaluable for future audits, especially on large, frequently updated sites.

12. Don’t Redirect URLs That Should Simply Return a 404

• Not every removed page needs a redirect.
• If there isn’t suitable replacement content, a 404 may be the better choice.
• Avoid blanket-redirecting to prevent a confusing user experience.

13. Do Make Sure Your Canonical Tags Match Your Redirects

• When a page is 301 redirected, its canonical tag should point to the new URL.
• Conflicting signals can confuse search engines.
• Ensure consistency in your technical SEO across the site.

14. Don’t Overlook Your Analytics After Launch

• Monitor bounce rates, organic traffic, and any unusual 404 spikes after implementing redirects.
• In case of unexpected patterns, double-check your configuration.
• Quick fixes can prevent future issues.

15. Do Remember That Redirects Are a Long-Term Setup

• A 301 redirect should remain in place as long as the new page exists.
• Removing it too soon can confuse search engines and undo SEO gains.
• Only change a permanent redirect if there is a compelling reason.

A Note on Redirect Testing

I have seen sites run into trouble because one redirect was incorrect. A good method is to:

• Set up a testing environment.
• List all the old URLs.
• For each one, verify the expected new URL and status code.
• Perform load tests or a crawl on the test site.
• Then make the changes live.

Never implement major redirect changes live without proper testing. It is a recipe for problems.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why Are Redirects Important for SEO?

Redirects help preserve link equity, maintain user trust, and keep ranking signals intact. When implemented correctly, they ensure you retain the authority built over time.

Can I Use a 302 for a Permanent Move If I Don’t Want to Hurt My Rankings?

No. A 302 should be used only for temporary moves. For permanent changes, a 301 or 308 is more appropriate.

Do Redirects Affect Page Speed?

They can if there is a long chain or too many back-and-forth server hops. Use direct redirects and monitor your page speed regularly to avoid performance issues.

Should I Redirect Expired Product Pages or Return a 404?

It depends on the situation. If there is relevant replacement content, a redirect is useful. If not, a 404 is acceptable.

Is It Necessary to Update Canonical Tags After Implementing a Redirect?

Yes. The canonical tags should point to the same final destination as the redirect. This consistency avoids confusing search engines.

How Long Should a 301 Redirect Stay in Place?

There is no strict rule, but it is wise to keep a 301 active indefinitely. Removing one too soon can lead to broken links and mixed signals to search engines.

Are Meta Refresh Redirects Acceptable for SEO?

They can work, but they are not ideal. Meta refresh redirects may confuse search engines and result in a poorer user experience. Server-level redirects are almost always better.

Can Multiple Temporary Redirects Be Chained?

While possible, chaining multiple temporary redirects can slow down your site and result in reduced link equity. It is best to keep redirects straight and direct.

Do JavaScript Redirects Carry SEO Value?

They may pass some signals, but the results are often inconsistent compared to server-level 301 or 302 redirects.

What Is the Difference Between a 307 and a 302 in Practice?

Both are temporary, but a 307 maintains the HTTP method used by the browser, which is important for forms or actions involving sensitive data.