For site moves, specify all domain variants with Google’s Change of Address tool

Google updated its site move documentation this week to emphasize the necessity of entering all domain variants into the Google Change of Address tool during a site migration. The company now explicitly states that for domain migrations, users must submit Change of Address requests for all subdomains and both the www and non-www versions of the old domain name, even if these variants are not actively in use. This includes ensuring all relevant domain variants are verified within Google Search Console. Domain variants encompass all variations of a domain, such as subdomains (e.g., en.example.com), different top-level domains (TLDs), and the presence or absence of 'www' (e.g., www.example.com versus example.com). Google's rationale for this updated guidance is that domain migrations function optimally when all variations of a site are migrated correctly. This clarification aims to provide SEO professionals and site owners with more precise instructions for managing site moves and domain migrations, a process often perceived as complex. The Change of Address tool is designed to facilitate and expedite these migrations, making adherence to its proper usage crucial for a successful transition.