A WordPress migration is successful only when the site, data, integrations and search behavior still work after the move. Copying files and importing a database is only the middle of the job.
Before the move
- Record PHP, database and WordPress requirements.
- Take verified file and database backups.
- List DNS records, email dependencies and scheduled jobs.
- Identify CDN, cache and firewall configuration.
- Decide whether the domain is changing or only the host.
Build or verify staging
Test the new environment before DNS changes when possible. Confirm logins, media, forms, email, checkout, scheduled tasks, custom code and external integrations.
Handle URLs deliberately
WordPress stores URLs in multiple places, including serialized data. Use migration-aware tools or code rather than blind text replacement. If the domain changes, prepare redirect mapping before launch.
Plan the final data window
Content sites may tolerate a short freeze. WooCommerce and membership sites may need a final synchronization strategy so new orders or users are not lost between copies.
Coordinate DNS and TLS
Reduce avoidable uncertainty around TTLs, certificate issuance, proxy settings and origin access. Do not remove the old environment before traffic has settled and rollback is no longer needed.
Verify after launch
- Test critical user journeys.
- Check server and application logs.
- Confirm redirects and canonical URLs.
- Verify analytics and search-engine access.
- Confirm cron, email and background queues.
- Keep the previous environment intact long enough for safe rollback.