The time it takes to complete SEO for a site migration varies depending on the size and complexity of the site. SEO migrations can take anywhere from a few weeks to 3-4 months to complete. This includes the research, preparation, recommendations, and implementation.
After the site migration is complete, it will also take a bit of time before SEO metrics are back to where they were pre-migration. One study completed by Search Engine Journal found that it took websites around 229 days on average for SEO traffic to return to pre-migration levels. When undergoing a site migration, it is important to consult with SEO experts who can help to mitigate the risk of long-term traffic loss. Oftentimes, if SEO migrations are not properly executed, organic traffic never returns to pre-migration levels.
Here are a few steps you can take during a site migration to mitigate SEO risk:
1. Back up your old site and website data
2. Record your pre-migration data benchmarks
3. Properly transfer tracking tags to your new site so data can be collected
4. Make sure your pages are still optimized for their top-ranking keywords
5. Generate and submit a new sitemap
6. Redirect your old web pages to their relevant counterparts on the new site
7. Test your new site in a staging environment before making it live
Have any other questions about ensuring a healthy SEO site migration?
