Domain transfer options in Squarespace provide different ways to direct visitor traffic. Here's how to choose the right method for your needs.

Transferring vs. Connecting

Transferring a domain consolidates billing and permissions with your site, while connecting keeps them separate. Choose based on your needs:

Transfer when you want to:

• Unify billing and permissions
• Give team members full access
• Get free domain or Google Workspace offers

Connect when you want to:

• Use separate payment methods
• Manage domain access independently
• Keep domain restricted from team members

Forwarding vs. Designating

Both methods direct visitors to a different site, but with key differences:

Forwarding:

• URL changes to new site's address
• Requires domain/subdomain name and target URL
• Simple setup through forwarding settings

Designating:

• URL remains unchanged
• Requires CNAME or A record setup
• More technical but maintains brand consistency

Other Options

• Change primary domain: Keep the same site with different domain
• Provider transfer: Move domain to another platform
• URL redirects: Redirect inactive URLs to active pages
• Subdomain setup: Direct subdomains to specific pages
• Path forwarding: Redirect all URL slugs to new domain

Best Practices

Choose based on:

• Desired URL display
• Technical requirements
• Access management needs
• Billing preferences
• Team collaboration setup

When rebranding, keep old domain linked for automatic redirection to maintain online presence and SEO value.

For subdomain connections between Squarespace sites, specific records must be set up on both sites. Note that you cannot designate domains to different pages within the same Squarespace site.

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