Google: Site Removal Tool Won't Speed Up Site Migrations

Dec 27, 2016 - 7:52 am 0 by

Wrenches2 Google 1900px

It seems counterintuitive to me to use a site removal feature in the Google Search Console when migrating a site from domain A to domain B. But one SEO asked if it would help in a Google Webmaster Help thread. The answer is obviously no.

If you have 301 redirects in place from domain A to domain B, using the site removal tool will enforce that Google doesn't pick up on those redirects. In fact, it would seem to me that it might slow the site migration process, rather than speed it up.

Google's John Mueller said in the thread:

The site removal feature in Search Console won't speed up a site-move, it'll just remove the old site even if we haven't fully indexed the new one. Since the old URLs are redirecting, it's best to just let the old URLs remain indexed (until they move over in the index), as users can still click through and reach the new site that way.

So, generally, stay away from using that tool for site migrations. Of course, maybe if your site is slammed with penalties you may want to try it but otherwise, stay away.

Forum discussion at Google Webmaster Help.

 

Popular Categories

The Pulse of the search community

Search Video Recaps

 
- YouTube
Video Details More Videos Subscribe to Videos

Most Recent Articles

Daily Search Forum Recap: March 13, 2025

Mar 13, 2025 - 10:00 am
Google Search Engine Optimization

Google: Hotlink Protection Carve Outs For Search Engines Are Fine

Mar 13, 2025 - 7:51 am
Google Ads

Google Merchant Center Adds Bulk Request Review

Mar 13, 2025 - 7:41 am
Bing Ads

Microsoft Advertising Tests Updated Reports Templates

Mar 13, 2025 - 7:31 am
Bing Ads

Bing Ads Blue Local Business Tag & Other Labels

Mar 13, 2025 - 7:21 am
Google Ads

Google Ads Search Max Spotted Again

Mar 13, 2025 - 7:11 am
Previous Story: Google: Mobile First Index Is Not Yet Live