How to Change Your WooCommerce Shop Page URL: A Step-by-Step Guide
Introduction:
The default WooCommerce shop page URL (typically `/shop`) is functional, but it might not be the most optimized or brand-aligned for your online store. Changing your shop page URL can improve your website’s SEO (Search Engine Optimization), make it more memorable for customers, and better reflect your branding. This article will guide you through the process of how to change your shop page URL in WooCommerce easily and safely.
Main Part:
Changing your shop page URL is relatively straightforward and can be accomplished in a few simple steps. Here’s a detailed guide:
1. Understanding the Implications of Changing URLs
Before diving in, it’s crucial to understand the impact of changing URLs. Changing your shop page URL can affect:
- Existing links: Any existing links pointing to your old `/shop` URL will become broken.
- SEO ranking: Search engines need to re-index your new URL, potentially causing a temporary dip in rankings.
- Bookmarked pages: Customers who have bookmarked your shop page will need to update their bookmarks.
- Using a Redirect Plugin (Recommended):
- Install a redirect plugin like “Redirection” or “Yoast SEO Premium” (which includes a redirect manager).
- Activate the plugin.
- Create a 301 redirect from your old `/shop` URL to your new shop page URL. A 301 redirect tells search engines that the page has permanently moved.
- Using .htaccess (Advanced):
- Back up your `.htaccess` file before making any changes!
- Access your `.htaccess` file through your hosting provider’s file manager or an FTP client.
- Add the following line to your `.htaccess` file (replace `/shop` and `/new-shop-url` with your actual URLs):
- Save the `.htaccess` file.
- Visit your new shop page URL in a browser.
- Check for broken links on your website.
- Test the redirect by visiting the old `/shop` URL. You should be automatically redirected to your new shop page.
To mitigate these issues, we’ll cover setting up redirects later in this article.
2. Changing the Shop Page URL in WooCommerce Settings
The most direct way to change your shop page URL is through the WooCommerce settings:
1. Login to your WordPress dashboard.
2. Navigate to WooCommerce > Settings.
3. Click on the Products tab.
4. You’ll find the Shop page setting. This dropdown allows you to select a different page as your shop page. If you haven’t already, you may need to create a new page specifically for your shop before you can select it here.
5. Select the desired page from the dropdown.
6. Save changes.
3. Updating the Page Slug (URL)
After selecting the page, you need to change the page’s URL, also known as the slug:
1. Go to Pages > All Pages in your WordPress dashboard.
2. Find the page you selected as your shop page.
3. Hover over the page title and click “Edit” or click on the page title to open the page editor.
4. Look for the “Permalink” section. If you don’t see it, click the gear icon in the top right corner and ensure the “Permalink” option is checked under the “Page” section.
5. Click the “Edit” button next to the URL.
6. Enter your desired new URL (slug). For example, instead of `/shop`, you might use `/products`, `/store`, or something more specific to your brand.
7. Click “OK” to save the new slug.
8. Click “Update” to save the changes to the page.
4. Updating Permalinks (Important!)
After changing the page slug, it’s crucial to update your permalinks to ensure everything works correctly:
1. Go to Settings > Permalinks in your WordPress dashboard.
2. Select your desired permalink structure. Usually, “Post name” is the most SEO-friendly option.
3. Click “Save Changes.” This refreshes your permalinks and ensures your new shop page URL is correctly recognized.
5. Setting Up Redirects (Essential for SEO)
To avoid broken links and maintain SEO, you need to redirect the old `/shop` URL to your new shop page URL. This can be done using a plugin or manually through your `.htaccess` file. Using a plugin is generally the easier and safer option:
Redirect 301 /shop https://yourdomain.com/new-shop-url
Important: Editing the `.htaccess` file incorrectly can break your website. Use caution and consult with a web developer if you’re unsure.
6. Testing Your New Shop Page URL
After completing the above steps, it’s essential to test your new shop page URL:
Conclusion:
Changing your WooCommerce shop page URL is a relatively simple process that can significantly benefit your online store’s SEO and branding. By following these steps and taking the necessary precautions, you can successfully update your shop page URL and ensure a smooth transition for your customers and search engines. Remember to always back up your website before making any significant changes and test thoroughly afterward. By implementing these changes carefully, you can optimize your online store for success.
