When the domain becomes useful
A branded domain becomes important as soon as the link is seen by a customer: SMS, flyer, QR, advertising, email or partner. It reduces friction and makes the link more recognizable.
Domain guide
Custom domain for short links: when and how to connect it
A custom domain is not only cosmetic. It reassures, clarifies link origin and becomes a durable asset for campaigns, QR and direct messages.
Useful for
- Brands and agencies
- SMS, WhatsApp and QR
- Migration from another tool
Business impact
- Controlled publication domain.
- More readable links.
- Less brutal migration.
Guardrails
- Check DNS and SSL.
- Test before a large switch.
Prepare DNS
Choose a dedicated subdomain, keep a record of the CNAME target and wait for validation before using it in an important campaign. DNS should be treated as a publishing step.
Test first links
Create a few pilot links: one campaign, one QR, one simple short link. Check redirect, analytics, domain display and mobile behavior.
Keep control
The domain should remain tied to the right account and use cases. Clear separation avoids a client, brand or campaign reusing a domain that does not belong to it.
Related guides
Continue with the closest workflows.
For the next step, see migrate from Bitly, Short.io and Rebrandly.
For the next step, see print QR code checklist.
For the next step, see choose a campaign URL shortener.
For the next step, see custom domains.
Should you use the main domain or a short subdomain?
A dedicated subdomain is often cleaner: it separates short links from the main website, limits DNS risk and remains readable in SMS, QR, email or partner campaigns.
What should be checked before publishing with a custom domain?
Check DNS validation, owning account, HTTPS redirect, mobile behavior, fallback links and first campaigns. The domain becomes a customer asset: it must be assigned without ambiguity.