Category: URL shortening

Discover blogs about URL shortening benefits, tools, and strategies. Learn how short links boost clicks and simplify tracking.

How to use short URLs for marketing: Best practices one must know as a marketer in 2025
Many people are understandably cautious about clicking on links, whether due to annoying website pop-ups or emails from unfamiliar sources.

At the same time, this hesitation poses a challenge for marketers, as getting users to click on URLs is vital for engagement and conversions.

This is where a free link shortener with tracking capabilities comes into play. It helps you create short URLs quickly and hassle-free.

These attractive and concise links have become popular among influencers, brands, marketers, and bloggers. These professionals utilize them to enhance marketing efforts, engagement, and click-through rates across various platforms.

Let’s explore the concept of shortened URLs and the possibilities of using short, branded URLs to boost marketing campaigns.

What are short URLs?

A short URL is a compressed version of a longer web address, created using a URL shortening service like Replug.

These links redirect users to the original URL but take up far less space, making them ideal for social media posts, SMS messages, email campaigns, and print materials.

The primary purpose of using such URLs is to enhance readability, make links more shareable, and provide a cleaner, more professional appearance across digital platforms.

The ultimate goal is to enhance user experience and maximize click-through rates (CTR) by making links easier to recognize, trust, and remember.

In fact, Backlinko reports that the top Google result earns a 27.6% CTR, showing just how impactful optimized URLs can be, especially when they’re concise and keyword-rich.

Importance of Short URLs
- 🔗 Improved click-through rates (CTR): Shorter, cleaner links tend to attract more clicks, especially when customized with relevant keywords.
- 📱 Better user experience: Long URLs can be messy and irritating. Short links are easier to read, type, and share, particularly on mobile devices.
- 📢 Cross-platform compatibility: Short URLs work seamlessly across all channels, from emails and tweets to offline QR codes and posters.
- 🎯 Efficient space usage: Especially useful in character-limited platforms like Twitter, where every character matters.
- 📊 Trackable engagement: The best URL shorteners come with built-in analytics to track performance, including clicks, device types, locations, and referrers.
See Also: How to shorten a link using a URL shortener?

Role of branded short links in digital marketing

Branded short links are more than just shortened URLs. They’re powerful marketing tools that enhance brand visibility, trust, and campaign performance.
- 🧠 Increased Brand Awareness: Branded links (e.g., yourbrand.link/offer) keep your business name front and center, reinforcing brand identity.
- 🤝 Higher Trust & Credibility: Users are more likely to click a link that includes your brand name rather than a random string of characters.
- 📈 Enhanced Conversion Rates: Recognizable, trustworthy links can drive more conversions by reducing hesitation and building confidence.
- 🔍 SEO Benefits & Keyword Relevance: Branded short links with targeted keywords can improve link context and searchability.
- 🛠️ Campaign Differentiation: Marketers can create unique branded links for different campaigns or platforms, making it easier to measure effectiveness and ROI.
How to use short URLs for marketing purposes

In today’s fast-paced digital world, every character counts, especially in marketing. Short URLs not only help streamline your messaging across channels but also offer powerful branding, tracking, and optimization opportunities.

When used strategically, they can significantly uplift your campaigns’ performance, improve engagement, and boost brand recognition.

Select a branded domain

Branded short links do more than just save space; they make a lasting impression.

Raise trust

Generic short URLs (like bit.ly or tinyurl.com) can appear suspicious to users. A branded short domain (e.g., nyti.ms for The New York Times or amzn.to for Amazon) instantly signals credibility.

Consumers are more likely to click on links that clearly indicate their source, which reduces bounce rates and enhances user confidence.

Boost brand recognition

A consistent, customized short link reinforces your brand with every share. When your brand name is visible in the link (e.g., yourbrand.link/offer), it becomes a subtle yet powerful marketing asset.

Over time, this repeated visibility strengthens brand recall and sets your content apart from generic competition.

Create meaningful custom links using a URL shortener

A short URL should still tell a story.

Contextualize

Avoid ambiguous strings like bit.ly/3kYs8dQ. Instead, create links that provide immediate context, like yourbrand.link/fall-sale.

This not only improves click-through rates but also helps users understand what they’re about to view.

Utilize keywords

Including relevant keywords in your custom URL improves both SEO and user engagement.

For instance, a campaign for a new product launch might use yourbrand.link/new-smartwatch, instantly conveying value while helping search engines index the link contextually.

Take advantage of the tracking & analytics capabilities of a URL shortener

One of the greatest strengths of short URLs lies in the data insights they provide.

Monitor clicks

Track how many times your links are clicked, and when. This helps determine peak engagement hours, ideal publishing times, and overall campaign performance.

Segment data by channel

Most paid URL shorteners (like Bitly, Rebrandly, or Sniply) allow segmentation by traffic source. Whether the link was clicked via Instagram, email, or a QR code on a flyer, you can pinpoint which platforms drive the most traffic.

Track performance

Beyond raw clicks, evaluate metrics such as bounce rate, time on site, and conversions associated with each short link.

For instance, yourbrand.link/discount might drive 10,000 clicks but only 1% conversions, prompting a change in strategy or landing page design.

Monitor multi-channel campaigns

Use unique short URLs for each channel in a multi-channel campaign (e.g., yourbrand.link/email, yourbrand.link/facebook, etc.). This gives you precise insights into what’s working and what needs refinement across your marketing mix.

Refine campaigns

Data from short links isn’t just for reporting, it’s actionable. Low click-through rates on a particular platform may suggest poor copy or ineffective targeting. Conversely, high-performing links can serve as templates for future campaigns.

Gain insights into audience engagement

Are mobile users engaging more than desktop users? Are certain geographic regions clicking more frequently?

Link analytics can provide rich behavioral insights, enabling you to tailor your messaging and audience targeting more precisely.

Deploy the short links across all marketing channels

Short links excel in their flexibility and universal applicability.

Social media

Character-limited platforms like Twitter and Instagram bios benefit greatly from short links. For example, a post might include yourbrand.link/freeguide to maximize space and visibility without clutter.

Emails

Short URLs keep your emails clean and clickable. They’re especially useful in tracking which links recipients engage with the most, allowing for precise list segmentation and follow-up.

SMS campaigns

Text message or SMS marketing succeeds due to its conciseness. A short, branded link not only fits character limits but also makes the message feel more professional, increasing trust and CTR.

Content marketing

In blog posts or downloadable PDFs, short URLs are easier to remember and type. They’re especially useful in content upgrades or linking to gated assets (e.g., yourbrand.link/checklist).

Print & offline media

Short URLs often back QR codes. But even without a QR code, having a memorable short URL on a poster, business card, or flyer (e.g., yourbrand.link/event) makes it easier for users to engage offline.

Test & iterate

Effective marketing is a cycle of experimentation and refinement.

A/B testing

A/B testing is a method for comparing two or more cases to see which one performs better. Use multiple variations of your short URLs to test different messages, formats, or landing pages.

For example, test yourbrand.link/save20 vs. yourbrand.link/20off to see which resonates better with your audience.

Stay consistent

Consistency builds familiarity. Stick to a recognizable format and naming convention for your URLs to make them more memorable and reinforce your brand across all campaigns.

Short URLs are more than a space-saving tool; they’re a strategic marketing asset. When branded, customized, and tracked effectively, they enhance trust, boost engagement, and provide actionable insights that help refine your campaigns.

Whether you’re launching a new product, running a seasonal promotion, or simply sharing blog content, integrating short URLs across your marketing channels ensures your message is not only seen, but remembered and acted upon.

Also read: How to create and use branded short links for SMS marketing

How to use short URLs for marketing campaigns: Some good examples at hand

Let’s explore five successful examples of brands using short URLs to drive marketing results effectively.

Coca-Cola’s “cokeurl.com”

Strategy: Coca-Cola created a custom branded short domain, cokeurl.com, to reinforce its brand identity in digital campaigns.

Use case: In global promotions like the “Share a Coke” campaign, they used short URLs to direct users to personalized bottle pages or social contests.

Why it works: These links were easy to remember and instantly associated with the brand, thereby improving engagement across platforms such as Twitter and SMS.

New York Times’ “nyti.ms”

Strategy: The New York Times uses nyti.ms, a branded short domain, for sharing articles across social media.

Use case: Each shortened link redirects to a full NYT article, especially effective on platforms like X (formerly Twitter), where character count matters.

Why it works: Branded URLs, such as nyti.ms/abc123, build trust, signaling to users that the link leads to a reputable source — a key factor in increasing click-through rates.

Amazon’s “amzn.to”

Strategy: Amazon uses the custom short domain amzn.to, powered by Bitly, for affiliate and product links.

Use case: Affiliates and marketers share these links on blogs, YouTube descriptions, and social media to drive sales and earn commissions.

Why it works: These URLs are concise, trackable, and clean, enabling both Amazon and its partners to monitor traffic, conversions, and optimize campaigns in real-time.

Spotify’s campaign-specific short links

Strategy: Spotify uses short URLs for sharing playlists, artist pages, and marketing campaigns, often through branded or campaign-specific domains.

Use case: During the launch of new features or artist collaborations (e.g., “wrapped” campaigns), Spotify uses custom short links to drive mobile traffic.

Why it works: These links enhance shareability and enable Spotify to collect user data, including location and device information, for retargeting and analytics purposes.

Pepsi’s QR & short link integration in campaigns

Strategy: Pepsi integrates short URLs alongside QR codes in product packaging and TV commercials.

Use case: During promotions like the “Pepsi Stuff” rewards program, they used memorable short links to direct users to sign-up pages and promo details.

Why it works: Combining visual codes with short, branded URLs ensures a seamless user experience, especially for mobile users who may not be able to scan a QR code (at times) but can easily type a simple URL.

The best URL shortener for online marketing in 2025

Replug.io is an all-in-one link management tool designed for brands, marketers, SEO specialists, and bloggers to create, manage, and analyze short URLs.

It’s a comprehensive URL shortening tool that provides several link management services to upgrade your social media marketing to the next level.

Thousands of happy customers worldwide trust Replug for the link shortening task. One major reason for its success is that it offers much more than the average URL shortener freely available online.

Users find URL shortening, tracking, bio links, and much more under the same umbrella. It’s, without a doubt, the best URL shortener for social media marketers.

Key features
- Precise URL shortening
- Custom domain configuration for branded short URLs
- Bio link tool to create social media bio links
- Retargeting feature to facilitate retargeting on social media platforms
- A/B testing URLs to compare URL performance
- Link rotator to rotate links for testing purposes
- White-labeling for large-scale organizations
- URL analytics to track and monitor URL performance
- QR code management for links
- Customizable call-to-actions
Pricing
- Free: $0/month
- Essentials: $9/month
- Scale: $23/month
- Agency: $79/month
Wrapping up

To sum up, short URLs have become vital tools for modern marketers, helping improve brand visibility, track campaign performance, and enhance user engagement.

By integrating branded short links into your digital marketing strategy, you can establish trust, drive higher click-through rates, and measure success with precision.

No matter for social media, email campaigns, or influencer collaborations, short URLs simplify link management and boost overall marketing efficiency.

As 2025 continues to reshape online marketing, choosing the right URL shortener is crucial for staying ahead.

Replug offers everything you need, from branded links to advanced analytics, making it the ultimate solution for professionals.

Try this amazing URL shortening tool today and advance your link management game!

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I use a short URL link?

To use a short URL link:

– Select a reliable service like Replug, and paste your long URL into their input field.
– The tool then generates a shortened version, which is often customizable for branding purposes.
– Copy the short link and paste it into emails, social posts, or websites.
– When clicked, it redirects to the original URL seamlessly.

How to use short URLs for marketing on Facebook?

On Facebook, short URLs enhance marketing by making posts cleaner and more engaging, as they avoid long, cluttered links that hinder clicks.

Use tools like Replug to shorten links, add UTM parameters for tracking, and integrate them into ads, posts, or stories.

This enables monitoring of click-through rates, audience engagement, and campaign performance through built-in analytics.

How to use short URLs for marketing on Google?

For Google marketing, particularly in Google Ads or Search Console, use short URLs from services like Replug or Google’s own Firebase Dynamic Links (for apps) to create concise, trackable links.

Append UTM tags for analytics in Google Analytics, and embed them in ad copy or search results snippets. This improves click rates and provides data on user behavior across campaigns.

How to make money from shortened URLs?

Earn from shortened URLs via pay-per-click (PPC) services like AdFly, Linkvertise, or ShrinkMe, where you shorten links and share them. Each click views a short ad, earning you a commission (typically $1-10 per 1,000 views).

Sign up, generate links, and promote them on social media or websites, but comply with platform policies to avoid bans. Payouts vary by traffic quality and geography, with thresholds around $5-10 for withdrawal.

Can URL shorteners track clicks?

Yes, most URL shorteners offer built-in click tracking, providing metrics such as total clicks, geographic locations, referral sources, and device types.

Premium plans enhance this with advanced analytics, integration with Google Analytics, and real-time data. This helps marketers optimize campaigns without needing extra tools.

What is the relationship between short URLs and social media shares?

Short URLs boost social media shares by making links more aesthetically pleasing and shareable, fitting character limits on platforms like X (formerly Twitter), and improving click-through rates.

They correlate with higher engagement, as clean posts appear more professional and trustworthy. Analytics from shorteners also reveal share patterns, helping refine content strategies.

Should I shorten links even for email or social posts?

Yes, shortening links for emails and social posts is recommended to enhance readability, track engagement, and fit character limits, especially on mobile devices.

It prevents long URLs from breaking layouts or appearing spammy, while providing analytics on opens and clicks. However, use branded URL shorteners like Replug to build trust and avoid generic ones that might raise security concerns.

What are some of the most common challenges marketers face when using shortlinks?

Marketers often struggle with link trustworthiness, as shortened URLs can conceal malicious content, resulting in lower click rates or platform flags. Analytics accuracy can vary, with issues like bot traffic inflating metrics or service downtime causing redirect failures.

Additionally, dependency on third-party shorteners risks data privacy breaches or sudden policy changes that could affect campaigns.
September 26, 2024

Benefits of URL shorteners: Top reasons why one must use these tools

We’ve all experienced the frustration of copying a long, messy URL and thinking, “This looks terrible.” We’ve been there, more times than we’d like to admit!

That’s why URL shorteners exist: to simplify and streamline one’s link management needs, making links more user-friendly and professional.

These link shorteners are the perfect solution in this case. They take those clunky, unattractive URLs and transform them into concise, clean links that are easier to share and use.

Moreover, the benefits of URL shorteners go far beyond aesthetics. This blog covers everything, from the definition of a URL shortener to its key benefits that you should be aware of.

So, let’s get started!

What is a URL shortener?

A URL shortener is simply a tool that condenses long URLs into short, easy-to-share links. These tools don’t change the destination; they just repackage it into something cleaner, clickable, and far more professional.

Replug acts as your custom URL shortener, ideal for turning long, messy links into branded, trackable URLs that look tidy and perform much better.

8 major benefits of URL shorteners: Key advantages explained!

There are numerous benefits to using URL shorteners. From making your links look clean to tracking link analytics, these tools are becoming increasingly essential for anyone seeking to enhance their online presence and optimize their digital strategy.

Here’s a list of the top benefits of URL shorteners that you must know as a content marketer or business professional:

Improved aesthetic appeal

A short URL is like a crisp, well-edited photograph, while a long one is like a blurry, poorly taken snapshot. The edited photograph (short URL) is clear and appealing, whereas the blurry snapshot (long URL) can look messy and unrefined.

Now, let’s make a comparison. Which one looks better?

Long URL:

Short URL:

Clearly, short links have a far greater aesthetic advantage, and only a top-notch URL shortener can perform this task optimally.

Also Read: How to shorten a link using a URL shortener?

Easier link sharing across social media platforms

Let’s face it, long URLs can be a real pain to share on social media. That’s where link shorteners come in; they’re a total lifesaver!

They offer links that fit perfectly on platforms with character limits, such as Twitter (X) and SMS. Besides, they also make it extremely easy to copy, paste, or share links.

For example, imagine you’re trying to share a link to a funny cat video on Twitter (X). The original URL is massive, about 120 characters long, but with a tool like Replug, you can share it in just 20 characters!

Amazing right!

By using shortened links, you’ll make it easier for others to engage with your content. And who knows, you might just get more likes, shares, and even a few laughs!

Boost clicks and conversion with custom URLs

People trust links that look branded and professional. A custom URL shortener allows you to add your brand domain instead of a random string, enabling you to share personalized links, hassle-free.

Branded links make your content instantly recognizable and give users confidence that they’re clicking a safe and trustworthy URL. This increased trust often translates into higher click-through rates and better engagement.

For example, instead of sharing a generic short URL like:

You can share a custom one like:

In-depth analytics and link tracking

Being able to monitor click performance is one of the most valuable benefits of URL shorteners. They can be used to track analytics, providing insights into who’s clicking, when, and how often.

Additionally, they also inform you where your traffic is coming from, including geographic locations and the devices used.

For instance, let’s say you launch a promotion with shortened links and find that your “funny cat meme” campaign gets the most clicks from a region known for its cat lovers. Plus, you see that mobile users are way more engaged than desktop ones.

With this info, you might double down on those cat memes and create a special mobile offer, turning your marketing into a cat-themed hit.

Smarter link redirection & dynamic targeting

One of the most significant advantages of URL shorteners is the flexibility to redirect a link even after it has been created.

If your landing page changes or a campaign URL needs updating, you don’t have to resend new links. You can simply update the destination behind your short link.

This keeps campaigns consistent, saves time, and prevents lost clicks from outdated links.

But it doesn’t stop there!

Modern link shorteners also support dynamic links, which automatically tailor the destination based on factors such as device, location, or even the time of click.

For example, mobile users can be directed directly to your app store download page, while desktop users are sent to your website. Similarly, a global campaign can send US visitors to your .com site and UK visitors to your .co.uk site, all from the same link.

This combination of flexible redirection and link rotation ensures your audience always lands on the most relevant page, enhancing user experience, engagement, and conversions.

Amazing retargeting opportunities

Did you know that up to 88% of online users won’t return to a site after a bad experience, and the average website has a bounce rate of 37%? But don’t worry!

Top-notch URL shorteners can help you re-engage your audience and breathe new life into lost connections.

By integrating a reliable link shortener like Replug, which features powerful capabilities such as a retargeting pixel, you can track user interactions, create targeted ads, and re-serve ads to interested users.

This effective combo boosts tracking and analytics, ad relevance, and ROI, while seamlessly integrating with your existing strategies.

But don’t just take our word for it!

For instance, major companies such as Adobe, Starbucks, Best Buy, Amazon, Coca-Cola, The New York Times, McDonald’s, and Reddit are utilizing link shorteners to retarget their audiences.

Here’s how “Amazon” and “The New York Times” are using URL shorteners in their marketing strategy:

Note: The next time you leave a website and get an email that says, “Hey, you forgot something in your cart!” or you see an ad pop up for that exact pair of shoes you were eyeing, that’s retargeting in action.

Better offline marketing (QR codes & print)

URL shorteners aren’t just for online campaigns; they bridge the gap between online and offline marketing through QR codes.

Most current link shortening tools let you instantly generate a scannable QR code for every shortened link. This makes it much easier to share digital content through physical channels.

Imagine you’re running a restaurant and printing flyers for a new menu. Instead of typing a long URL, customers can just scan your QR code and instantly view the digital menu.

Similarly, event organizers can place QR codes on flyers, posters, tickets, or merchandise to lead people directly to registration pages, videos, or exclusive offers.

Since QR codes have gained hype and popularity post-COVID, this feature makes URL shorteners essential for creating engaging, interactive print campaigns.

Enhanced mobile experience

Most internet traffic today originates from mobile devices, making it compulsory to deliver a seamless mobile experience.

Short links are easier to click, copy, and share on smartphones compared to long, clunky URLs that break across lines or look suspicious.

Beyond convenience, advanced link shorteners optimize the mobile experience by supporting deep linking.

For instance, if someone clicks a short link to your YouTube channel from their phone, the link can open directly in the YouTube app, rather than in a browser.

The same applies to e-commerce apps, social media platforms, or custom brand apps. This reduces friction, enabling users to reach their destinations faster and increasing the likelihood of engagement and conversions.

Some disadvantages of URL shorteners

While URL shorteners offer numerous benefits, it’s essential to be aware of the potential drawbacks of these tools before entirely relying on them in your campaigns.

Drawback	Explanation
Trust issues	Shortened links can look suspicious if they don’t show the final destination.
Dependency on services	If the link shortening service shuts down, your links may break.
Broken links	Discontinued tools (e.g., Google’s goo.gl) can render links inactive.
Limited transparency	Some platforms or users may block or distrust shortened URLs.
Extra management	Large campaigns require more effort to organize and track links.
Feature limits	Free tools often lack analytics, retargeting, or customization options.
Cost factor	Advanced features, such as branding or deep analytics, usually require paid plans.

Closing thoughts

In this blog, we explored what URL shorteners are, their practical benefits, and the few drawbacks you should be aware of.

From making links look clean and professional to enabling custom branding, the pros of URL shorteners can genuinely transform the way you manage and share links.

While there are some limitations, like trust issues or service dependency, the advantages far outweigh the drawbacks when used wisely.

If you’re ready to unlock these benefits and take your marketing strategy to the next level, try Replug today! A custom URL shortener built to help you brand, track, and optimize every link you share.

Frequently asked questions

What are the benefits of a short URL?

The following are the advantages of a short URL.

– Improves click-through rates (CTR): Clean, concise links look more trustworthy and clickable.
– Enhances user experience: Easier to read, type, and share, especially on mobile or print.
– Saves space: Ideal for character-limited platforms like X (formerly Twitter) or SMS.
– Boosts brand visibility: Branded short links increase recognition and trust.
– Enables tracking and analytics: Most URL shorteners provide click data, source, and geolocation.
– Supports A/B testing: Easily test different link placements or campaigns with trackable variations.
– Prevents link breakage: Short URLs are less likely to break in emails or messaging apps.

Who can benefit from URL shorteners?

URL shorteners aren’t just for marketers. A wide range of users can benefit from their simplicity and tracking capabilities.

– E-commerce businesses → Use branded links, bio links, retargeting, and custom CTAs to improve visibility and conversions.
– Content creators → Customize link previews, set expiry dates, run A/B tests, share via SMS, and generate QR codes for easy promotion.
– Affiliate marketers → Cloak long links, add deep links for higher conversions, and rotate offers through a single short link.
– Agencies → Provide white-label solutions, advanced link management, and tailored tools to enhance client campaigns.

How does a URL shortener work?

A URL shortener works by taking a long web address and converting it into a much shorter, more manageable link. When a user enters a long URL into a shortening tool, the service generates a unique short link that redirects to the original destination. When someone clicks the short link, the tool quickly redirects them to the full URL behind the scenes.

How do URL shorteners impact SEO?

URL shorteners can impact SEO positively if they use 301 redirects, as this ensures link equity (or “link juice”) is passed to the final destination. They’re useful for tracking and sharing links on social media, but excessive use can reduce transparency, affect user trust, and potentially lower click-through rates.

September 18, 2024

Replug vs Bitly vs TinyURL: Which URL shortener is best for marketers in 2025

Long, messy URLs can be a massive nightmare for marketers. They are hard to share, look unprofessional, and are impossible to track properly. That frustration grows more when you’re trying to manage campaigns and need clear data insights on what’s actually working.

With numerous tools available, determining how to shorten a link without compromising valuable tracking and branding power is a pretty challenging task.

But don’t worry, we’ve got some good news for you!

Here we’ll compare the top 3 URL shorteners, i.e., Replug, Bitly, and TinyURL, to see which one truly fits today’s marketers’ needs.

Let’s break it down, starting with Replug.

Feature / Aspect	Replug	Bitly	TinyURL
Free / Entry Plan	100 short links, 1,000 clicks/month, 3 custom domains, 10 smart QR codes, 2 bio links, 1 campaign	Free plan with limited features (very restricted link count)	Free plan available with basic shortening & limited analytics
Paid / Premium Plans	Essentials: $9/month, Scale: $23/month, Agency: $79/month, Enterprise: custom	Core: $10/month, Growth: $29/month, Premium: $199/month, Enterprise: custom	Pro: $9.99/month, Bulk 100K: $99/month, Enterprise: custom
Branded / Custom Domains	Supported (multiple custom domains depending on plan)	Available on paid plans (Growth and up)	Available in Pro / paid plans
Analytics & Reporting	Full analytics, click behavior, and built-in campaign metrics	Real-time click stats, device & geography breakdowns on higher tiers	Detailed analytics in subscription plans (clicks, referrers, geography)
Bulk Link Shortening	Supported in higher plans / Agency levels	Supported in “Growth” and above	Bulk 100K plan allows bulk shortening
Link Destination Redirecting / Editing	Yes, you can change the target URL or rotate links	Some redirect/edit capability	Yes, in paid plans, you can edit link destinations
QR Code Support	Supported (smart QR codes)	Built-in QR code features included	Limited or no advanced QR code design support (basic QR)
White-Label / Agency Features	Offers white-label, team & workspace management in higher tiers	Available in Enterprise / higher tiers with team features	More basic; doesn’t emphasize white-label capabilities
Ease & Speed	Very polished UI and mature product. Generates branded short links in seconds	Slight learning curve for advanced features, but user-friendly for everyday use	Extremely quick for basic link shortening

Replug: Most recommended custom URL shortener

When it comes to shortening links, Replug’s URL shortener goes beyond the basics. Instead of just turning a lengthy, disorganized URL into a short one, it gives marketers the power to brand their links, track performance, and even drive conversions through added features.

No matter if you’re running ad campaigns, sharing links on social media, or managing multiple clients, Replug makes the process smooth and hassle-free. It also ensures that everything aligns with your brand identity in the best possible manner.

Key features

Custom link shortener: Instantly transforms generic links into branded URLs with personalized slugs.
Branded links everywhere: Creates professional-looking links that you can use across all social media marketing channels to strengthen recognition of your brand.
Beyond simple URL shortening: Offers adding custom CTAs, retargeting pixels, third-party widgets, and tracking elements directly to your short links seamlessly.
White-label ready: Agencies and organizations can fully brand the platform, making it look like their own solution.
In-depth analytics in real time: Provides tracking link clicks, engagement, and conversions with detailed performance reports.
UTM tracking component: You can easily monitor campaign effectiveness with built-in UTM parameter support.
Fine-tuned link management: Keep all your shortened links organized under one roof for maximum efficiency.

Final thoughts

If you’re very serious and concerned about link management, Replug is hands-down the best choice out there.

From agencies and large enterprises to digital marketers and online businesses, it offers everything you need to create branded links, track results, and promote your campaigns.

It’s not just a link shortener, it’s a complete marketing toolkit built around your URLs.

Maximize marketing ROI
by transforming ordinary URLs into
branded short links that convert. Try Replug for free

Bitly: A powerful URL shortener for brand strategists

Bitly has been around for years and is still one of the most trusted names in link shortening. It doesn’t just give you a short, neat link, but makes it easy to brand your URLs, track performance, and manage campaigns at scale.

For content marketers and brand strategists, Bitly provides a reliable way to keep links professional and data-driven, while making them easy to share across various platforms.

Key features

Branded short links: Turns long URLs into short, clean, and branded links that build trust.
Top-level domains: Provides custom domains to establish a stronger brand presence for your links.
Clicks & engagement data: Access real-time stats on clicks and audience behavior effortlessly.
Campaign comparison: Easily monitor and measure performance across multiple campaigns.
Flexible link management: Change link destinations at any time without breaking the original link.
Bulk link shortening: Shorten and manage multiple links at once, saving valuable time.

Final thoughts

Bitly is, without a doubt, one of the most reliable URL shorteners, especially for brands and agencies that value trust and data. It packs all the essentials plus advanced features for campaign tracking and branded links.

However, the downside is its pricing plans. It’s a bit on the higher side compared to other tools available online. So, while it’s an excellent choice for businesses that can afford it, smaller teams or startups may want to consider budget-friendly alternatives.

TinyURL: A highly-rated online URL shortener

TinyURL is one of the oldest and most recognizable link shorteners on the internet. Over the years, it has evolved from being a simple URL trimming tool to offering more advanced link management features.

For marketing professionals, business owners, or even casual users, TinyURL makes it easy to create shorter, cleaner links. It also provides the option to track performance and manage links in bulk.

Key features

Original URL shortener: Known as one of the pioneers in the space, offering precise and simple link shortening.
Detailed analytics at hand: Get insights into link performance with tracking and reporting tools.
Bulk link shortening: Shorten multiple URLs at once to save time and effort.
Full-scale link management: Access features that help you organize and manage your links effectively.

Final thoughts

TinyURL remains a trustworthy choice for anyone looking for a straightforward link shortener with added analytics and bulk management options.

It does the job well, but there’s a catch! It may take a little longer to generate results, and you’ll need to sign up for an account to access its full features. Still, for those who don’t mind these small trade-offs, TinyURL is a solid option worth considering.

Which one should you use

Selecting the right URL shortener ultimately depends on your specific needs as a marketer. If you’re looking for something simple and straightforward for basic link shortening, TinyURL still does the job with minimal fuss.

Bitly, on the other hand, offers a more powerful feature set for general analytics and branding. This makes it a solid choice for businesses that want a balance of usability and insight without going too deep into customization or advanced marketing features.

However, if you’re aiming to go beyond just shortening links and want to fully optimize your marketing campaigns, Replug delivers a more comprehensive toolset. Its ability to add retargeting pixels, create branded links, use bio link pages, and even display call-to-actions on shared content gives marketers an edge in tracking, conversion, and engagement.

While all three tools serve the core purpose of link shortening, Replug stands out for those who want to integrate their links more strategically into their broader marketing funnel.

Significant benefits of URL shorteners

URL shorteners aren’t just about snipping down long links. They bring a bunch of practical advantages for marketers, businesses, and even typical users.

Let’s take a quick look at why they’re so handy:

Saves character space: Short links are ideal for social media platforms like X (Twitter), where every character counts.
Improves aesthetics and readability: Clean, simple URLs look much more professional than messy, string-filled ones.
Offers tracking & analytics: Get valuable insights into clicks, traffic sources, and audience behavior.
Enables branding and customization: Turn generic links into branded ones that boost recognition and trust.
Centralized link management: Keep all your links organized in one place for easy access and control.
Easier to share and remember: Shorter URLs are far simpler to recall and share with others, compared to longer ones.
SEO benefits: Branded, keyword-rich links can give your campaigns a slight edge in search visibility.
Easy link redirection: Update or change your destination link without creating a brand-new one.
QR code generation: Many shorteners now create dynamic QR codes for quick offline-to-online access.

How to pick the right URL shortener

With so many top-rated and best URL shorteners out there, choosing the right one really comes down to what you need for your business or campaigns.

Here are a few essential factors worth keeping in mind before making your decision:

Customization needs: If branding is important, go for a link shortener that lets you create custom domains and unique slugs.
Analytics & reporting: Look for detailed tracking features so you can measure clicks, conversions, and audience engagement without any hassle.
Scalability: Make sure the tool can handle your growth, whether you’re running a small campaign today or managing thousands of links later.
Cost & budget: Pricing varies a lot, so weigh the features against what you’re willing to spend.
Integrations: Check if the URL shortener works smoothly with your existing tools, like CRMs, ad platforms, or email marketing software.

Wrapping Up

At the end of the day, URL shorteners are more than just tools to shrink links. They’re powerful assets for branding, tracking, and managing campaigns.

We compared Replug, Bitly, and TinyURL, and while each has its own strengths, Replug clearly stands out with its customization, analytics, and all-in-one link management features.

If you want to boost clicks and build stronger brand visibility, give Replug a try today. You won’t be disappointed!

Frequently asked questions

Which is the best URL shortener?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. It depends on your priorities (branding, analytics, budget, ease of use, etc.). But overall, tools like Replug tend to lead for marketers and agencies. Thanks to their balance of customization, tracking, and reliability.

What is the most trusted URL shortener?

Bitly remains a go-to trusted option in many industries. Years of uptime, brand recognition, and integrations help it rank high in credibility.

Is there a free URL shortener?

Yes, many services offer free plans, but with limited features. You can shorten links for free, though advanced features usually require a subscription to the paid plans.

Are shortened URLs bad for SEO?

Not necessarily! If the URL shortener uses proper redirects (like 301) and a reputable provider, you won’t lose SEO value.

Is Google shutting down URL shortener?

Yes, Google’s old “goo.gl shortener” is being phased out. Links showing warning messages or inactivity will stop working, though active ones may still be preserved.

February 14, 2024

Branded links vs. short links: Which is right for your brand?

Have you ever shared an interesting post, recommended a funny video, or perhaps even critiqued an article that missed the mark? We’ve all been there.

However, what you may not realize is that the way you share these online treasures can have a significant impact on your brand identity.

If you’ve been using plain, generic short links to share content, it’s time to take a closer look. By doing so, you may unknowingly promote other brands instead of your own.

We’ll get straight to the point and discuss the difference between branded links vs. short links inside this blog. We’ll help you understand the implications of your choice and how it can affect your brand’s online presence.

So, let’s get straight to it!

What is a short link?

A short link, also known as a “short URL” or a “generic short link”, uses a public domain from a third-party service to compress a long version of a web address or URL.

Short links are created to simplify lengthy URLs, making them easier to share, remember, and use. They play a key role, especially in contexts where character limits are a concern, such as social media or printed materials.

Generic short links typically redirect users to the original, longer URL when clicked.

Check out this example of a short link:

👉 Example: bit.ly/3XyZ9aL

This type of link uses a generic shortening domain and a random string of characters. It’s quick to create and works across any platform, but doesn’t reflect your brand identity.

What makes short links so practical & powerful

Higher click-through rates (CTRs): Short links are clean, simple, and visually appealing, encouraging users to click more often compared to long, cluttered URLs.
Enhanced recognition: Even generic short links can reflect consistency and professionalism, helping users associate your content with reliability and trust.
Data-driven insights: These links provide measurable analytics, such as click counts, location, and device type, enabling you to optimize your campaigns with actionable data.
Seamless user experience: Shortened links load quickly, look better across platforms, and make sharing effortless, improving the overall experience for your audience.

Major use cases for short links

SMS marketing: Short links save character space in text messages while tracking engagement, making them perfect for concise, measurable mobile campaigns.
Social media: Generic short links appear clean, fit better within character limits, and enable consistent tracking across platforms like X, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
Email campaigns: Using short links keeps your emails neat and improves click tracking, helping marketers measure the effectiveness of each link more accurately.
QR codes: Short links integrate seamlessly with QR codes, ensuring faster scans, shorter URLs, and flexible tracking of offline-to-online traffic.
Organic sharing: These links make content easier to share across blogs, forums, and emails, increasing reach without cluttering the message.
Offline marketing materials: Placing short links on posters, flyers, or packaging makes it easy for users to type or scan, bridging the gap between offline and online engagement.
Customer support & feedback: Support teams use such links to quickly direct users to FAQs, surveys, or troubleshooting pages without confusing them with long URLs.

What is a branded link?

A branded link, also known as a “custom short link” or a “vanity URL”, is a type of shortened URL that includes a brand’s or organization’s name or a custom keyword as part of the link.

Unlike generic short links that use a random combination of characters and numbers, branded links are customized to reflect the brand’s identity, making them more recognizable and trustworthy to users.

3 key elements of a branded link are:

Domain – The custom name that represents your brand (e.g., go.yourbrand.com), helping build recognition and trust.
TLD (top-level domain) – The extension that follows the domain (e.g., .com, .io, .link), which can be chosen to align with your brand’s identity or industry.
URL slug – The customizable part after the slash (e.g., /summer-sale), used to describe the content or campaign clearly and memorably.

Example of a branded link:

👉 Example: go.yourbrand.com/offer

A branded link uses a custom domain (e.g., go.yourbrand.com, link.apple.com, etc.). It reinforces brand recognition, looks more trustworthy, and still provides all the tracking and analytics benefits of a short link.

What makes branded links so practical & powerful

Stronger brand identity: Branded links carry your custom domain, reinforcing your brand’s identity every time someone shares or clicks your link.
Increased trust & credibility: Users are more likely to click links that clearly display a recognizable brand name, making them appear legitimate and secure.
Easy to remember & share: Simple, descriptive branded links are easier to recall and share, helping your campaigns gain more organic traction.
Enhanced brand awareness: Every branded link acts as a micro touchpoint, spreading your brand name across social media, email, and digital channels.
Actionable insights & control: You can track clicks, sources, and audience behavior in detail, allowing you to optimize your campaigns with data-driven precision.
Clean & consistent link appearance: Branded links look professional and tidy across all platforms, maintaining consistency in tone and presentation.
Improved SEO & discoverability: Descriptive, keyword-rich branded links can enhance search visibility, helping both users and search engines better understand your content.

Major use cases for branded links

Marketing campaigns: Use branded links to track and analyze engagement across multiple campaigns, improving ROI measurement.
Social media marketing: Create short, on-brand links for platforms like X, Instagram, and LinkedIn to increase clicks and maintain brand consistency.
Affiliate marketing: Provide affiliates with custom-branded URLs to ensure trust, improve conversions, and monitor performance.
Email marketing: Include branded links in newsletters or promotional emails to increase click-through rates and minimize the risk of being filtered as spam.
Influencer collaborations: Give influencers branded links to share, securing brand visibility and accurate tracking of their impact.
Paid advertising: Use branded short links in PPC ads or sponsored content to make URLs look cleaner and more credible.
Event promotion: Share memorable branded links for event registrations, webinars, or launches to simplify access and tracking.
Offline & print media: Utilize branded URLs in flyers, posters, or business cards for easy recall and consistent branding.
Product launches or updates: Direct audiences to specific landing pages for new products or announcements with clear, branded links.

Branded links vs. short links: Which is better?

Branded links offer several advantages, particularly in strengthening your brand identity and enhancing user trust. They are valuable for businesses and individuals seeking to establish a cohesive online presence and improve user engagement.

Short links, on the other hand, are helpful in cases where you need a precise link to share with friends or family members, without worrying about online presence.

Feature	Branded Links	Short Links
Domain	Uses a custom, brand-specific domain (e.g., brand.co/link).	Uses a third-party domain (e.g., bit.ly, tinyurl.com).
Branding	Reinforces brand visibility and consistency in every link.	Offers no brand identity or recognition.
Credibility & Trust	Instantly recognizable and trusted due to brand association.	It may appear suspicious or spammy to users.
Click-Through Rate	Higher CTR because branded links look professional and secure.	Typically lower, as users hesitate to click on unfamiliar links.
Use Case	Ideal for marketing, promotions, and professional brand communication.	Suitable for quick personal sharing or temporary links.
Best For	Businesses, marketers, and organizations focused on brand growth and analytics.	Individuals or small-scale, non-branded usage.

The choice depends on your priorities

The choice between branded links and short links eventually depends on your specific goals and the context in which you plan to use them.

Branded links: If strengthening your brand identity, increasing trust, and improving user recognition are important to you, branded links are an excellent choice. They excel in marketing campaigns and content sharing where branding matters.

Short links: If brevity and saving space are crucial, short links are suitable. They are especially dominant in platforms with character constraints. They also make shared URLs look easier to remember, improving overall user experience.

How to create a branded short link using Replug

Are you ready to start using branded links for your own brand? Replug, a powerful free link shortener and branding tool, simplifies the process of creating custom, branded short links.

Let’s walk through the steps to create these links and amplify your brand’s reach.

Step 1: Add your custom domain

The first step in creating branded links with Replug.io is to incorporate your custom domain.

While Replug provides a default shortener domain (rplg.co), using your custom domain strengthens your brand identity and reputation.

Open your Replug dashboard and navigate to “Settings.” Then select “Custom Domains” from the dropdown menu.
Click on “Add Domain” to begin setting up your custom short URL.
On the next screen, provide the essential details, including your custom domain and settings such as the 404 redirect URL and branded domain.
Click “Connect” to add your custom domain to your Replug account.
After successfully connecting your custom domain, you can manage it within your Replug account. Check connectivity status, edit domain settings, or delete domains as needed.

With your custom domain integrated into Replug, you’re now ready to create your custom-branded link. Here’s how:

Step 2: Create a branded short link

Sign in to Replug, or create an account for free.
Paste your long URL in the bar under “Quickly shorten your link”.
Next, click on the blue arrow. Replug will automatically generate a short link for your long URL.
You can rename the link easily. All you need to do is change the slug of your short link.

Finally, save your shortened link. Now your link is ready to share anywhere on Instagram, Discord, or in an email campaign.

Note: You can add some amazing Replug features to your generated link, like customizing your link preview, adding custom favicons, A/B test your links, and more! You can also add retargeting pixels or custom CTAs to your link-shortening campaigns.

Replug’s additional link management features

Leading brands & businesses prefer branded short links

Let’s take a look at how some of the most popular brands use branded links to their advantage:

The New York Times – nyti.ms

The renowned newspaper, “The New York Times”, simplifies sharing long article URLs on social media and beyond by using the branded link nyti.ms. This branded link not only shortens the URL but also reinforces the brand’s identity with every click.

Nike – swoo.sh

When it comes to sports and lifestyle, Nike is a standout name. They utilize the branded link swoo.sh to create a memorable link for their products and promotions. This reinforces the Nike brand with every shared link.

Amazon – amzn.to

E-commerce giant “Amazon” opts for the branded link amzn.to, to shorten product URLs. This not only saves space in printed materials but also keeps the focus on their products rather than the URL itself.

Coca-Cola – cokeurl.com

Coca-Cola, a global beverage icon, maintains brand consistency by using branded links, such as cokeurl.com. This approach guarantees that every link shared aligns with their brand image.

Starbucks – sbux.co

Starbucks is a renowned global coffee chain that utilizes branded links with the domain sbux.co to simplify the sharing of promotional content. This reinforces their brand identity and keeps their links looking clean and professional.

Conclusion

At the end of the day, the choice between branded links and generic short links comes down to your goals.

Short links are ideal when you need something quick, simple, and space-saving. But if you want to strengthen brand identity, build trust, and boost engagement, branded links clearly stand out. That’s why brands like Nike, Amazon, and Starbucks rely on them.

It’s not just about shortening a URL, it’s about making every click count.

With tools like Replug, you don’t have to choose between convenience and branding; you can get both. Whether you’re sharing on social media, in emails, or even offline, branded links let you stay consistent, professional, and memorable.

So instead of sending traffic through someone else’s domain, take control of your links and make them work harder for your brand.

Frequently asked questions

Why should I consider using branded links for my brand or business?

Branded links, which use your custom domain (e.g., yourbrand.ly/link), enhance brand visibility and recognition with every share, fostering customer loyalty. They improve click-through rates by up to 34% compared to generic links, as they appear more professional and trustworthy. Additionally, they protect against link hijacking and provide valuable analytics to refine marketing strategies.

Are branded links more trustworthy than short links?

Yes, branded links are generally more trustworthy because they incorporate your recognizable domain, signaling legitimacy and reducing user hesitation from unknown shorteners. Studies show they can boost trust by 25-30%, minimizing phishing concerns. In contrast, generic short links often hide the destination, potentially alarming users in an era of heightened cybersecurity awareness.

Can I track the performance of branded links?

Absolutely, most branded link services, such as Replug or Rebrandly, offer rich analytics, including click counts, geographic data, referral sources, and device types. This enables real-time monitoring and A/B testing to optimize campaigns for maximum effectiveness. Integration with tools like Google Analytics further enhances tracking, providing insights into user behavior and ROI.

Why should short links be a part of every marketer’s strategy?

Short links condense lengthy URLs, making them ideal for character-limited platforms like X (Twitter) and improving shareability across social media. They enable precise tracking of engagement metrics, helping marketers measure campaign effectiveness and audience preferences. Moreover, they enhance aesthetics in emails and ads, potentially increasing click rates by 20-40% while supporting retargeting efforts.

When to use short links and branded links?

Use generic short links for quick, internal, or low-stakes sharing where branding isn’t crucial, such as casual social posts or temporary redirects. Opt for branded links in marketing campaigns, email newsletters, or affiliate programs to reinforce brand identity and build trust. Branded links excel in professional contexts, such as ads or content syndication, while short links are sufficient for everyday use.

Provide some valuable tips when using short links?

When using short links:

– Make sure they’re concise yet recognizable to build trust, avoiding overly cryptic formats.
– Maintain consistency across your organization by using a unified link structure or platform to reinforce branding and simplify tracking.
– Incorporate UTM parameters in destination URLs to effectively monitor traffic sources and campaign performance in analytics tools.

October 5, 2023

How to create and use branded short links for SMS marketing: A detailed guide!
Looking for a way to connect with your customers and boost engagement without getting lost in crowded inboxes? SMS marketing is the accurate answer. It provides a direct, effective, and highly engaging way to reach your audience instantly.

But why stop there? By incorporating branded short links into your SMS campaigns, you can save valuable character space while gaining powerful insights into how your audience interacts with your messages.

Whether you’re a small business owner aiming to expand your reach or a marketer looking to supercharge your campaigns, SMS links can help you achieve your goals pretty well.

Let’s explore how these branded short links can transform your SMS strategy and drive measurable results!

What are short links for SMS?

Short links for SMS are shortened URLs used in SMS marketing messages to conserve valuable character space and enhance tracking and analytics.

These links function by redirecting users to the intended landing page or website while tracking data, including clicks, time spent on the page, and conversion rates.

When sending SMS messages, businesses often have a limited number of characters to work with. By using short links, they can include more information in their messages while still maintaining a clear and concise message.

Short links also allow firms to track click-through rates and other valuable data that can be used to optimize their SMS marketing campaigns.

How to create a branded shortened link for SMS marketing

Getting started with crafting short links for SMS marketing is pretty straightforward. All you need is a reliable custom link shortener, and you’re ready to optimize your campaigns.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you set things up the right way:

Step #1: Use a dedicated SMS platform

Before you start shortening and sending links, it’s essential to have a dedicated SMS marketing platform in place.

These platforms are specifically designed for managing large-scale SMS campaigns. They offer features like audience segmentation, automation, compliance with SMS regulations, and message scheduling.

A good SMS platform ensures your messages are delivered efficiently and at the right time, helping you maximize engagement and ROI.

Tools like Replug and Twilio integrate seamlessly with link shorteners, providing a solid foundation for your campaigns.

Step #2: Choose a link-shortening tool

Once your SMS platform is ready, the next step is to pick and configure a link-shortening tool.

Replug is a top-tier option that goes beyond basic shortening, offering powerful features such as click tracking, branded domains, retargeting, and in-depth analytics.

These capabilities help you monitor link performance, build trust with custom URLs, and ultimately drive better results from your SMS campaigns.

Don’t settle for less when it comes to SMS marketing. Sign up for Replug today and start seeing results!

Step #3: Create your shortened link

Let’s say you select Replug as your link-shortening tool. You can create a shortened link for your SMS campaign by simply pasting your original URL into Replug’s “Shortened link” box and generating a new, shortened link within seconds.

Step #4: Use a custom domain

To strengthen brand consistency and recognition, personalize your short link with a custom domain. Instead of using a generic shortener domain, your SMS messages can include your brand name in the slug. This not only looks professional but also builds credibility with your audience. So, add accordingly!

Step #5: Add link preview

Some devices display a small link preview when a shortened link is shared. With Replug, you can customize its appearance hassle-free, adding a title, description, or image that makes your link more attractive and clickable.

Step #6: Route links

Advanced tools like Replug let you set up link routing. This means you can send different users to different destinations based on factors like location, device type, or campaign variations. It’s quite beneficial for A/B testing or running multi-location promotions.

Add traffic routing rules

Step #7: Include a strong call to action (CTA)

To encourage customers to click on your shortened link, include a clear call-to-action in your SMS message. For example, you could say “Click here to try our new pizza flavor!” with the shortened link included in the message.

Step #8: Add deep links

Deep links allow you to send users directly to a specific page within your app or website, rather than just the homepage. This saves customers valuable time and increases conversions. For instance, an e-commerce brand can send shoppers straight to a product checkout page.

By following the steps outlined above, you can easily create a branded shortened link tailored for SMS marketing that promotes trust, engagement, and CTR.

Why use short links in SMS marketing?

Short links are a must-have tool for businesses seeking to upgrade their SMS marketing strategy. Here are some convincing reasons why you must utilize short links for SMS marketing.

To save space (character count limits)

SMS messages have a 160-character limit, so every character counts. Shortened links take up less space, giving businesses more room to communicate their message effectively.

For example, a retailer can send a message with a shortened link to a product page, allowing them to provide a brief description and the link in one message.

For click tracking & analytics

Shortened links can be used to track clicks and engagement, giving enterprises valuable data on the effectiveness of their campaigns.

For instance, a charity can send an SMS message with a shortened link to a donation page. By tracking clicks on the link, they can determine the success of the campaign and adjust future ones accordingly.

For an optimized mobile experience

Most people access SMS messages on their mobile devices, and shortened links can lead to a better user experience on these gadgets.

For example, an airline can send an SMS message with a shortened link to a mobile boarding pass. This makes it much easier for passengers to access and use the pass on their smartphones.

To increase brand recognition

Shortened links can be customized with branded domains, helping to increase brand recognition and trust.

For instance, a fashion brand can send an SMS message with a shortened link to a new collection, using a branded domain.

For seamless A/B testing

Shortened links can be used for A/B testing and optimization of SMS campaigns.

For example, an online retailer can send two different SMS messages with different shortened links to a product page and track which link receives more clicks. They can then optimize future campaigns for increased engagement.

To enhance trust & click-through rates (CTR)

Branded shortened links look cleaner and more trustworthy than long, generic URLs. When recipients see a familiar brand name in the link, they’re more likely to click, leading to higher engagement and conversions.

For instance, a fitness app can send an SMS with a branded short link, such as “fitco.app/joinnow”, which appears more reliable than a random string of characters.

For better deliverability

SMS messages containing long or suspicious-looking links may get flagged by carriers or filtered as spam. Short, clean links reduce the risk of this happening, ensuring your message reaches the recipient’s inbox without interruption.

For example, a financial service can use a shortened, verified link to send account update notifications, reducing the chances of carrier rejection or message filtering.

For additional data points

Shortened links can capture additional data, such as device type, location, and time of click, providing deeper insights into audience behavior and preferences. This ultimately helps to refine future campaigns.

For instance, a restaurant chain can use shortened links in SMS campaigns to track which city or time slot gets the most reservations, tailoring promotions based on that data.

Also read: How to use shortened URLs for marketing

How brands use short links for SMS marketing: Check out the examples

Here are a few ways renowned brands are utilizing short links in their SMS marketing efforts.

Dunkin’ Donuts

Dunkin’ Donuts uses SMS marketing to send exclusive deals and promotions to its customers.

To track the success of their campaigns, they use shortened links that lead customers to a landing page with the offer.

This enables Dunkin’ Donuts to measure engagement and optimize its campaigns for improved results.

Subway

Subway uses SMS marketing to send coupons and special offers to its consumers.

To provide a better user experience, they use shortened links that lead customers to a mobile-friendly coupon page. This allows them to redeem the offer on their mobile devices easily.

Coca-Cola

Coca-Cola uses this technique to promote new products and events to its customers.

To increase brand recognition, they use custom domains for their shortened links. For example, they might use a link like “www.coke.com/newproduct” to promote a new product launch.

Nordstrom

Nordstrom utilizes SMS marketing to send personalized recommendations to its clients.

To track engagement and improve their recommendations, they use shortened links that lead customers to a product page with more information about the recommended item.

Zara

Zara uses this marketing strategy to promote new collections and limited-time offers to its customers.

To increase engagement and drive sales, they use shortened links that direct customers to a product page featuring the collection or offer.

These are just a few examples of how brands are using short links for SMS marketing to enhance their campaigns and achieve their marketing goals.

Example of a good and bad SMS with shortened links

The way you incorporate shortened links in SMS marketing can significantly impact your campaign’s effectiveness. A well-crafted message with a shortened link should be clear, relevant, and aligned with your brand, encouraging trust and clicks.

On the other hand, a poorly written SMS with an unbranded or unclear link can confuse recipients, lower click-through rates, and even trigger spam filters.

Below is a precise example to illustrate the right and wrong ways to use shortened links in your SMS campaigns.

Good SMS Example:

Hi Sarah! Our Fall Sale is now live 🍁 — enjoy 30% off all items this week only! Shop now: brandshop.co/fall30

Why it’s good:
- Personalized greeting
- Clear offer and urgency
- Branded short link (adds trust)
- Friendly, concise tone
Bad SMS Example:

SALE NOW ON! Click here for 30% off: bit.ly/3xY2zZq

Why it’s bad:
- All caps feel forceful
- No personalization
- Vague message
- Generic, unbranded link (may seem suspicious)
Wrapping Up

In conclusion, branded short links are a powerful tool for SMS marketing, offering enhanced brand recognition, improved click-through rates, and valuable analytics.

By creating concise, trustworthy, and trackable links, brands can optimize their campaigns and drive engagement effectively.

As shown through examples, well-crafted SMS with branded links resonate with audiences, while poorly designed ones risk losing trust.

By following the steps outlined to create and implement these links, businesses can strengthen their SMS marketing strategy. This ensures messages are impactful, professional, and aligned with their brand identity, ultimately facilitating stronger connections with customers in a competitive digital landscape.

Frequently asked questions

Why SMS Marketing matters for digital marketers?

SMS marketing is essential for digital marketers in 2025 due to its 98% open rate and rapid 90% read-within-3-minute delivery. It enables direct, immediate customer engagement that far surpasses email.

With 66% of businesses adopting SMS software and increasing budgets, it drives high ROI through personalization and AI integration in omnichannel strategies.

How effective is an SMS campaign including short URLs?

SMS campaigns with short URLs achieve 98% open rates and 36% click-through rates, with 28% of recipients clicking links for enhanced tracking and conversions.

Short URLs optimize message length, boost readability, and support 45% response rates, making them 30% more cost-effective than traditional methods.

What are the best link shorteners for SMS marketing in 2025?

– Replug stands out for SMS marketing with its all-in-one link management, retargeting, and bio tools tailored for marketers.
– Bitly offers trusted, simple shortening with strong analytics and brand recognition for reliable campaign tracking.
– Klaviyo integrates AI-driven SMS with short link support for personalization, while
– Twilio enables programmable SMS workflows incorporating shortened URLs for scalable engagement.

How can I optimize my SMS marketing campaigns using short links?

Use branded short links to enhance trust, reduce character count, and lower SMS costs while maintaining clear, concise messaging. Draw click tracking and analytics from shorteners to measure engagement, A/B test variations, and direct to mobile-optimized landing pages for higher conversions.
March 6, 2023
What does HTTP 302 code mean for URL shorteners?
Quick Summary:
- HTTP 302 status code is a temporary redirect that indicates the requested resource has been temporarily moved to a new URL.
- URL shorteners use HTTP 302 redirects to temporarily redirect users from the original long URL. This helps to track clicks, gather analytics, and manage link lifecycles
- HTTP 302 redirects can have a positive impact on SEO by preserving backlinks, improving user experience, and maintaining search engine rankings.
You may have experienced HTTP code 302 if you’ve ever visited a website and been redirected to a different page or domain. In this blog post, we’ll define HTTP 302, explain how it works, and discuss recommended practices for using it.

What exactly is HTTP 302 status code?

HTTP 302 is a status code that indicates that a client’s request has been temporarily redirected. When a client asks a server for a resource, the server may answer with an HTTP 302 status code and a new location where the resource can be found. To obtain the resource, the client then submits a new request to the new location.

Importance of understanding HTTP status codes

Understanding HTTP status codes is vital because they are required for keeping a well-performing and optimized website. Further, understanding the meaning of various status codes allows website owners and developers to rapidly diagnose and resolve issues such as broken links or server faults.

HTTP status codes are also significant in search engine optimization (SEO). When a search engine crawls a website, the status codes are used to determine the status of each page. To understand HTTP status codes like HTTP 302 is also vital for improving user experience. If a person gets diverted to a different place and does not understand why, they may feel puzzled or upset.

Website owners and developers may guarantee that users enjoy a smooth and seamless experience by giving clear and succinct status codes.

In conclusion, understanding HTTP status codes, such as HTTP 302, is critical for keeping a well-performing and optimized website, as well as for SEO and user experience.

Website owners and developers may guarantee that their websites stay speedy, user-friendly, and search engine optimized by following best practices for managing HTTP 302 redirection.
Related: How To Change A URL Of Any Website?

How does HTTP 302 code work?

When a client (for example, a web browser) submits a request to a server for a resource (for example, a web page), the server may respond with an HTTP status code of 302 and a new URL where the requested resource may be accessed. This updated URL is often given in the response headers in the “Location” field. To obtain the resource, the client then submits a new request to the updated URL.

The server may utilize HTTP 302 for a variety of reasons, including redirecting users to a temporary landing page while a website is being maintained, diverting traffic away from an overcrowded server, and so on.

Overall, the HTTP 302 status code is an important aspect of how web servers and clients communicate about the location of requested resources, and it plays a crucial role in ensuring that users have rapid and easy access to the information they require.

How does the 302 code differ from other HTTP status codes?

HTTP status codes are a standardized means for web servers to send to a client’s browser information about the outcome of a request. The HTTP 302 status code is one of many that are used to send various types of information.

A “Found” HTTP 302 status code indicates that the requested resource has been temporarily relocated to a different URL. When a client submits a request to a server and receives a 302 status code response, the client’s browser will immediately redirect the user to the new URL given in the response header.

This is typically used when a website has been relocated to a new domain or when a page has been temporarily moved or deleted for maintenance.

Other HTTP status codes provide other sorts of information. A 200 status code, for example, indicates that the requested resource was successfully located, whereas a 404 status code indicates that the requested resource could not be located. A 500 status code indicates that an issue occurred while the server was processing the client’s request.

When to use HTTP 302 redirects?

Here are some examples of why an HTTP 302 redirect could be useful:

Temporary Page Unavailability: If a webpage is temporarily inaccessible or undergoing maintenance, you may use an HTTP 302 redirect to transfer viewers to a temporary page informing them of the issue. This can assist to enhance the user experience and avoid people from receiving 404 errors.

Product Availability: If a product is temporarily out of stock or unavailable, you may redirect consumers to a comparable product or a waitlist page using an HTTP 302 redirect. This can assist to increase user engagement and decrease bounce rates.

Site Migration: When migrating your website to a new domain or URL structure, an HTTP 302 redirect may be used to temporarily redirect users and search engines to the new URL. This can help you keep backlinks and avoid 404 issues while also updating the URL structure of your website.

A/B Testing: If you’re doing an A/B test on your website, you may split traffic between multiple variants of your page by using an HTTP 302 redirect. This enables you to test many versions of your page without compromising SEO or user experience.

Temporary Promotions: If you’re holding a temporary promotion or sale on your website, you may redirect customers to a landing page that explains the deal using an HTTP 302 redirect. This can aid in increasing user engagement and driving sales.

The role of HTTP 302 code in the performance of URL shorteners

URL shorteners frequently utilize 302 redirects. When a user clicks on a shortened URL, the server responds with a 302 status code and the new URL in the response header, causing the user’s browser to redirect to the original URL. Here is a general overview of how this process works:
1. The user enters a long URL into the URL shortening tool.
2. The URL shortening tool generates a unique, shortened URL for the long URL and saves both URLs in its database.
3. When a user clicks on the shortened URL, the server hosting the link shortening tool responds with a 302 status code and the original, long URL in the response header.
4. The user’s browser then automatically redirects to the original, long URL.
Advantages of using 302 redirects

The usage of a 302 redirect in this procedure offers various advantages, such as…

One advantage is that it allows to simply alter or update the redirection in the future without affecting any current links that are utilizing the abbreviated URL.

For example, if the long URL or the website domain changes, the URL shortening tool’s database may be updated to redirect the abbreviated URL to the new address, and all old links will continue to function normally.

Another benefit of employing a 302 redirect is that the URL shortening service can measure clicks on the reduced URL. Because the user’s browser instantly redirects to the original URL, the URL shortening service can track how many times the abbreviated URL is clicked and utilize this data for analytics or other reasons. Overall, using a 302 redirect is a frequent and successful method for URL shortening providers to transfer consumers from a short URL to a larger, original URL while still providing flexibility and click monitoring.
Lastly, it also has positive impacts on SEO i.e. preserving backlinks, providing flexibility, improving user experience, and speeding up the redirect process. Lastly, a HTTP 302 redirect can help maintain a website’s authority, relevance, and search engine rankings.

What impact does HTTP 302 status code have on SEO?

Backlink Preservation: When a webpage is relocated, establishing a temporary 302 redirect can assist maintain backlinks that point to the old URL. The search engine can follow the redirect and credit backlinks to the new URL, which can help the website keep its authority and relevancy.

Flexibility: The HTTP 302 status code is a versatile redirect that enables webmasters to make temporary adjustments to their website without affecting the URL structure. This might be handy when a website is being maintained or a page is temporarily inaccessible.

Improved User Experience: When used properly, the HTTP 302 status code may provide a consistent user experience by redirecting users to appropriate information. If a user clicks on a product that is temporarily out of stock, an HTTP 302 redirect might take them to a comparable product or a waitlist page. This can assist increase user engagement and decrease bounce rates, which can enhance search engine rankings.

Enhances Speed: HTTP 302 redirects are reasonably fast since they do not require a fresh DNS query or TCP handshake. This guarantees that consumers are swiftly routed to the new URL, which can enhance both user experience and search engine results.
Easy to Implement: Setting up an HTTP 302 redirect is simple and needs no technical knowledge. This makes it usable for webmasters who may not be well-versed in site building or server management.

Related: How to Create a SEO Friendly URL: Ultimate Tips

Why URL shorteners don’t use 301 redirects?

URL shorteners can use 301 redirects, but it is not recommended for a few reasons.
To begin, a 301 redirect is a permanent redirect, indicating that the original URL has been permanently relocated to a new destination. This is not always the case when using a URL shortener because the abbreviated URL may be connected with a specific campaign, event, or other transitory purpose. In this case, if a 301 redirect is utilized, search engines and other online services may continue to route consumers to the original URL long after the campaign or event has concluded, resulting in a bad user experience.

Second, temporarily employing a 301 redirect might have bad SEO repercussions. A 301 redirect may be seen by search engines as a signal that the original URL has been permanently relocated, and any authority or link equity connected with the original URL may be transferred to the new URL. If the original URL is restored later, search engines may take some time to identify it as the canonical URL and restore any lost authority or link equity.

How to fix and prevent HTTP 302 code errors in shortened URLs?

The following are some measures you may take to resolve the 302 error:

Check the URL:

Make sure you’ve typed the proper URL for the page you’re looking for. A 302 error might be caused by a mistyped URL or a missing character.

Clear the cache in your browser:

Your browser may have cached a previous version of the page, causing the new page to conflict. Clearing your cache may resolve the problem.

Check your redirects:
If you are the website’s owner and are experiencing this issue on your own site, make sure your redirects are working properly. To find problems with your redirects, utilize a tool like Redirect Checker.

Examine your website for malware:
Malware can occasionally generate a 302 error by forwarding users to a malicious page. Run a malware check on your computer and website to ensure they are free of malware.

Check with the website’s owner:
If you’re having trouble accessing a third-party website, the problem might be on their end. Contact the website’s owner to check if there are any known problems or if they can help.

If the problem persists, try viewing the page from a different browser or device. This will assist you in determining whether the problem is particular to your device or browser.
If none of these solutions work, you may need to contact the website’s owner or your web host.

FAQs for HTTP 302 code for URL shorteners

What is the difference between HTTP 302 and 200?

HTTP 302 is a status code that indicates a temporary redirect, meaning the requested resource has been temporarily moved to a different URL. HTTP 200 is a status code that indicates a successful response to a client’s request, meaning the requested resource has been found and returned to the client.

What is a 301 request?

A 301 request is a status code that indicates a permanent redirect, meaning the requested resource has been permanently moved to a different URL. The client should update its bookmarks or links to point to the new URL.

What is HTTP 404?

HTTP 404 is a status code that indicates the requested resource could not be found on the server. This typically means the URL or file path is invalid or the resource has been removed.

What is 302 and 304 errors?

HTTP 302 is a status code that indicates a temporary redirect, while HTTP 304 is a status code that indicates a “not modified” response. A 302 error occurs when a requested resource has been temporarily moved to a different URL, while a 304 error occurs when the client already has a cached version of the requested resource and the server determines that this cached version is still valid.
February 16, 2023
How to create a call to action using a URL shortener?

Creating a call to action using a URL shortener can effectively drive conversions and encourage users to take a specific action. Using a reliable URL shortener like Replug to create a call to action has a few key benefits.

First, it can shorten link that are long and complex, making them easier to share and more visually to appeal. Sharing a link in a social media post or on a platform with limited space for long URLs can be beneficial.

Second, URL shorteners can help to track clicks on a link, which can help understand the effectiveness of your call to action.

Finally, URL shorteners can make creating custom and branded links easier, which can help build brand awareness and make your link more memorable.

How to create a call to action using Replug?

Use these simple steps to create a call to action that inspires users to take action that will benefit your business or organization.

Step 1: Sign in to Replug or create an account if you’re new.

Step 2: Go to the manage section on the main dashboard page and select campaign.

Step 3: Click on the “create new campaign” button in the campaign section.

Step 4: To create a new campaign, you must select a brand first. You may choose an existing brand or create a new one if not already been created.

Step 5: Click the next button once you’ve selected or created a brand.

Step 6: You will now see a page for choosing a campaign type. Choose a name for your call-to-action campaign here.

Step 7: Select the call to action option from the campaign type page and click the next button.

Step 8: Next, select your CTA type; here, we’ve selected a button CTA.

Step 9: After selecting the CTA type, you need to select the theme for your CTA. Your CTA’s appearance depends on your CTA’s purpose. As for this case, we have chosen a popup CTA theme to appear after clicking the shortened link.

Note: Read more about the use cases for different theme types to understand which CTA theme is perfect for you.

Step 10: Enter your URL, upload an image for the CTA, and click Next.

Note: Recommended size: Width = 920, Height = 1080

Step 11: You can view your CTA side-by-side.

Step 12: You are now in the CTA message section. Write your headline, message, and CTA button text.

Step 13: Enter your CTA button’s URL or phone number in the last block, and click Next.

Step 14: You’re now in the CTA customization section, where you can add colors. (Background colors, text colors, CTA button background colors, CTA button text colors). Choose your colors and click next.

Step 15: In the final step, you will select the seconds, after which the CTA will be displayed to the user. Alternatively, you can select the “On exit-intent” option, which will display the CTA when the user wants to exit the page.

Step 16: Save the campaign; now, you can share it across other platforms. Ensure that your newly created campaign appears in the campaigns section.

Did You Know?

Replug is a top-notch link optimization platform that can also help to track the effectiveness of the CTA. It offers analytics tools that allow you to track how many clicks the CTA receives. This can help you determine which CTAs are most effective and optimize your marketing efforts accordingly.

FAQs

What are the 3 features of a strong call to action?

Any CTA should have these three key features:

1. Clarity: A strong call to action should be clear and straightforward so that the reader knows exactly what they are being asked to do. This means using actionable language, such as “click here” or “sign up now,” and avoiding vague or confusing phrases.

2. Urgency: A sense of urgency can be a powerful motivator, and a strong call to action should convey a sense that the reader needs to take action immediately. This can be achieved through time-sensitive language, such as “limited time offer,” “act now,” or by highlighting the benefits of taking action immediately.

3. Relevance: A strong call to action should be relevant to the reader and the context in which it appears. This means that it should be tailored to the specific needs and interests of the audience and should align with the overall goals and message of the campaign or piece of content. By focusing on the reader and their needs, a strong call to action can increase the chances of conversion.

What elements are in CTA?

There are a few key elements that are typically included in a CTA:

– Action verb: The CTA should include an action verb that tells the reader what to do. Some common action verbs used in CTAs include “click,” “sign up,” “download,” and “register.”

– Button or link: The CTA should include a button or link that the reader can click to take the desired action. The button or link should be prominently placed and easy to find.

– Benefit: The CTA should include a benefit or reason for the reader to take the desired action. This could be a discount, exclusive content, or a chance to win a prize.

– Sense of urgency: The CTA should convey a sense of urgency or time sensitivity to encourage the reader to take action immediately. This can be achieved through time-sensitive language or by immediately highlighting the benefits of taking action.

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December 29, 2022