Migration mistakes can cost you sales and rankings. Here are the most common ones and how to avoid them.
Not Setting Up 301 Redirects
Key Not Setting Up 301 Redirects
- Reach customers 24/7 with an online store
- Lower overhead costs compared to physical retail
- Access global markets and audiences
- Track sales and customer behavior
- Automate inventory and order management
This is the biggest mistake. Without redirects, old URLs return 404 errors. You lose SEO rankings and frustrate customers. Map every old URL before migration.
Data Loss from Incomplete Exports
Key Data Loss from Incomplete Exports
Exporting data without checking completeness leads to missing products, customers, or orders. Verify your export before importing to Shopify.
Ignoring SEO
Key Ignoring SEO
Many merchants focus on data transfer and forget about SEO until after migration. Plan your SEO migration — URLs, meta data, sitemaps — before you start.
Going Live Without Testing
Key Going Live Without Testing
Migrating and immediately going live is risky. Run both stores in parallel. Test everything before switching your domain. A week of testing saves months of problems.
Forgetting About Email and Integrations
Key Forgetting About Email and Integrations
Third-party integrations (email marketing, accounting, ERP) need reconfiguration. Make a list of all integrations and set them up before going live.
Choosing the Wrong Theme After Migration
Key Choosing the Wrong Theme After Migration
Selecting a theme quickly to meet a deadline leads to regret. Take time to choose a theme that works for your products and brand.
Slow down. Plan carefully. Test thoroughly. A rushed migration causes problems that take months to fix.
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