This printable WordPress migration checklist covers what to do before, during and after moving a site to a new host or domain. Tick items as you go; progress is saved only in your browser. Use Print checklist for a paper copy.
Keep the old site running until the new one is fully tested. Do not cancel the old hosting on the day you switch DNS.
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Before the move Make a full backup and download it Database plus files, stored on your own computer or cloud storage. Note the current PHP version and server settings Tools → Site Health → Info. Match or plan for the PHP version on the new host. List plugins that need special handling Caching, security and backup plugins may store server paths or need reconfiguring. Check the new host’s disk space and limits Make sure the site and its backups fit. During the move Copy all files, including hidden ones .htaccess is easy to miss because it starts with a dot. Export and import the database Use phpMyAdmin, WP-CLI or your migration tool. Update the database settings in wp-config.php DB_NAME, DB_USER, DB_PASSWORD and DB_HOST. See database connection errors . If the domain changes, run a safe search and replace Dry run first and skip the GUID column. See mixed content for the command. Test before switching DNS Preview the new copy Use your host’s temporary URL or preview feature, or a hosts-file entry on your own computer. Log in and check the dashboard If login loops, see can’t log in after migration . Check pages, images, forms and checkout Look for broken images and missing uploads in particular. After the switch Confirm the SSL certificate and HTTPS redirect Check the padlock and test http:// and www versions redirect correctly. Re-save permalinks Settings → Permalinks → Save Changes regenerates rewrite rules. See 404s after migration . Test email delivery Contact forms and password resets often break after a host change. See WordPress not sending email . Check Search Console and the sitemap Make sure the sitemap loads and no new crawl errors appear. Keep the old hosting until you are sure Cancel it only after the new site has worked for a while and you have a fresh backup. If something goes wrong after the move, start with the WordPress Troubleshooting Finder . For the full walkthrough, read how to migrate WordPress to a new host . The official guide to moving WordPress covers the details.
