A redirect checker follows a URL through its HTTP redirect chain and shows each hop. It is useful when debugging domain migrations, HTTP-to-HTTPS rules, www/non-www canonicalization, tracking redirects, and unexpectedly long chains.
Why redirect chains matter?
A clean migration normally sends an old URL directly to the final replacement. Chains such as A → B → C → D add latency and make maintenance harder. Redirect loops prevent the destination from loading at all.
Permanent vs. temporary
301 and 308 are normally used for permanent moves; 302 and 307 are normally temporary. The correct status depends on intent. Do not change codes merely because one is rumored to be “better for SEO.”
What this tool does not decide?
It reports the HTTP behavior. You still need to decide whether the final URL is the correct canonical destination and whether internal links should be updated to point directly to it.
Trace every hop, then decide whether each one is necessary
Migration rules often accumulate over time: HTTP to HTTPS, old host to new host, old path to new path. A direct old-to-final redirect is easier to maintain than a chain of several hops. Loops and alternating slash/host rules can prevent the destination from loading altogether.
Status code should match intent
301/308 are normally used for permanent moves and 302/307 for temporary ones, but the right code depends on the real purpose. The checker reports transport behavior; you still need to decide whether the final page is the correct replacement.