Forum Moderators: Robert Charlton & goodroi
I am currently managing a website that moved from one domain to another. (www.domain1.com --> www.domain2.com).
The old domain name (www.domain1.com) had a new section of the site placed there(not previously indexed).
At this time domain1.com linked through to domain2.com (the 'older' section of the site that had been indexed whilst on/under domain1.com).
All seemed to be well, with google indexing both the new section of site (domain1.com) and also indexing the older site under it's new domain (domain2.com) by following the links within the new section on domain1.com.
Unfortunately the newest section of the site was taken offline. The older site (at this time on domain2.com) has now been put back onto its original domain (domain1.com).
Within a month or so, the company hope to be able to make the change back. So that the new section of site replaces the 'older' site which is currently back in its orginal location.
My initial thought was to recommend a 301 on 'domain2.com' towards 'domain1.com' but..
This not being a 'permanent' move (I wouldn't have thought a month or so warrants 'permanent' status), should i advise the to do a 302 instead? I have read that you should only use 301s for forwarding to ensure 'search engine friendliness'.
But this not being a permanant move, I would have thought a 302 more appropriate.
If i do recommend a 301 do Search Engines think it permanent and then not revisit domain2.com for a long period?
Sorry that was so long winded! - Any help much appreciated.
Thanks
Are 302s always bad for Google SEO [webmasterworld.com]
Might give you some insight.
Justin
