302 Redirect
Quick Definition
A 302 redirect is a temporary redirect that tells search engines the original URL will return. Unlike a 301, a 302 does not pass full link equity to the destination and should only be used for genuinely temporary moves.
Why It Matters
Using a 302 (temporary) redirect when you mean a 301 (permanent) redirect is one of the most common technical SEO mistakes. A 302 tells Google the move is temporary, so Google may keep the old URL in its index and not fully transfer ranking power to the new URL. This can silently hurt your rankings for months.
Real-World Example
During a website redesign, a developer sets up 302 redirects from old product URLs to new ones, planning to 'make them permanent later.' Six months later, the redirects are still 302. Google has been keeping both URLs in its index, splitting ranking power between them, and the site wonders why product pages are not ranking well.
Signal Connection
Trust -- Using the wrong redirect type sends confusing signals to Google about your URL structure. Consistent, correct redirect usage builds technical trust with search engines, while misused 302s create ambiguity that can hurt rankings.
Pro Tip
Audit your redirects using a tool like Screaming Frog or httpstatus.io. Any redirect that has been in place for more than a few weeks and is not genuinely temporary should be changed to a 301. Most redirect issues are 302s that should be 301s.
Common Mistake
Using 302 redirects by default because they are 'safer' or 'easier to change later.' If a URL change is permanent, use a 301 from the start. The longer a 302 stays in place, the more ranking power you may be losing compared to a proper 301.
Test Your Knowledge
When should you use a 302 redirect instead of a 301?
Show Answer
Answer: B. Only when the URL change is genuinely temporary and the original URL will return
A 302 redirect should only be used when a URL change is truly temporary -- for example, during site maintenance or A/B testing. If the change is permanent, always use a 301 to ensure full transfer of ranking power and proper indexing.