A complete guide for transitioning your WordPress site to Squarespace, with step-by-step instructions for content migration, domain transfer, and SEO preservation.

What You Can Transfer:

• Domains (including parked or connected domains)
• Website content (excluding layout, design, and fonts)

Keep your WordPress site active until the new Squarespace site is complete to maintain visitor access and content reference.

Step 1: Build Your New Site

1. Start a 14-day free trial (no credit card required)
2. Choose a template or create custom design
3. Add navigation and specialized pages
4. Upload content and create layouts
5. Customize site styles (fonts, colors, design)

Step 2: Import Content

Transferable Content:

• Blog posts, pages, and authors
• Categories and tags
• Comments
• Individual images
• Attachments

Non-transferable Items:

• Plugin content
• Gallery images
• Image captions
• Media Library items not attached to posts
• CSS and styling

Step 3: Domain Migration

Options:

1. Transfer domain to Squarespace (recommended)
2. Connect existing domain (if transfer requirements aren't met)
3. Register new Squarespace domain

Create URL redirects to maintain old links:

• Document current URL structure
• Update format differences (e.g., blog posts: WordPress '/blog-post' to Squarespace '/blog/blog-post')

Step 4: Launch Preparation

1. Choose a payment plan (monthly or annual)
2. Annual plans include free domain for one year
3. Keep site private until ready to launch
4. Review site launch checklist

Step 5: WordPress Closure

After successful migration:

1. Verify all content transfer
2. Ensure domain properly connected
3. Cancel WordPress hosting
4. Maintain domain subscription if using connected domain

Key Benefits:

• Automatic updates
• Built-in mobile optimization
• Integrated hosting
• No plugin management
• 24/7 customer support
• SEO-friendly structure

SEO Considerations:

• Temporary ranking fluctuations are normal
• Follow best practices to minimize impact
• Create proper URL redirects
• Maintain existing content structure

Additional Features:

• Multi-user collaboration
• Custom code integration
• Built-in security
• Integrated scheduling tools
• Members-only content options
• Hospitality business tools

For advanced customization, Squarespace Experts are available through the Marketplace for professional assistance.

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