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Moving your local SEO to a new location or changing your website’s structure can be a complex process. Many businesses encounter common technical errors that can hinder their local search visibility. Understanding these errors and knowing how to fix them is essential for maintaining and improving your local search rankings.
Common Technical Errors When Moving Local SEO
1. Inconsistent NAP Information
One of the most critical aspects of local SEO is the consistency of your NAP (Name, Address, Phone Number) across all online platforms. When moving or updating your location, inconsistent NAP details can confuse search engines and users, leading to lower rankings or lost visibility.
2. Broken or Incorrect Google My Business Listings
If your Google My Business (GMB) listing isn’t updated correctly after a move, it can result in inaccurate information appearing in local search results. This can also lead to a loss of reviews and engagement from local customers.
3. Duplicate Listings
Creating multiple listings for the same business location can dilute your local SEO efforts. Moving locations without properly consolidating or deleting duplicate listings can cause confusion and harm your search rankings.
How to Fix Common Local SEO Moving Errors
1. Ensure NAP Consistency
Update your NAP information across all online directories, social media profiles, and your website. Use tools like Moz Local or BrightLocal to audit and correct inconsistent data.
2. Update Your Google My Business Listing
Claim and verify your GMB listing if you haven’t already. Update the address, phone number, and business hours to reflect your new location. Add high-quality photos of your new premises to enhance your listing.
3. Remove Duplicate Listings
Use Google’s Remove Duplicate Listings tool or your listing management platform to identify and delete or merge duplicate entries. This helps consolidate your local SEO signals and improves your visibility.
Additional Tips for a Smooth Transition
Besides fixing technical errors, consider the following to ensure a successful move:
- Implement 301 redirects from old URLs to new ones to preserve link equity.
- Update your website’s schema markup to reflect your new location.
- Notify your customers and local partners about your move through email and social media.
- Monitor your local search rankings and reviews regularly post-move.
Moving your local SEO requires careful planning and execution. Addressing these common errors promptly can help maintain your local visibility and attract new customers in your new location.