Category: URL Shortening

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

Bitly vs TinyURL vs Replug: Which URL shortener is best for agencies?

If you’ve landed here, it’s likely because you are on the track of exploring URL shorteners. If that’s not the case then you might have realized that the buzz surrounding Bitly or TinyURL doesn’t quite live up to the reality.

Fortunately, you’re in the right place to explore the perfect link management solution that goes beyond generic URL shortening.

We’re talking about Replug – A platform designed to not only condense URLs but also enhance your overall link management experience with advanced features.

Your links deserve better, and we’re here to deliver just that. This is why in the following article, we’ve thoroughly compared Bitly, TinyURL, and our very own Replug.

Because, our goal is to provide you with an in-depth understanding of how each platform measures up, allowing you to make an informed decision that aligns with your needs and expectations.

So let’s get going;

A speedy tour of your favorites

Replug	Bitly	TinyURL
Replug is an all-star link management tool for marketers with features such as branded link shortening, traffic routing, QR codes, A/B testing, link retarget pixels, deep linking, and much more.	Bitly is a URL-shortening service that allows users to create shortened versions of long URLs, making them easier to share, manage, and track. Also, it can be integrated with various platforms, social media tools, and applications,	A tool that efficiently shortens lengthy URLs, making them concise and easy to share. The simplicity of TinyURL appeals to many users, especially those who prioritize straightforward functionality.

Pricing comparison

Tool	Basic	Pro/ growth	Agency/ Bulk/
Replug	$19 /mo	$49 /mo	$79 /mo
Bitly	$8/month (Only available in annual plan)	$35/month	$300/month
TinyURL	–	Starts at $12.99 /mo – $249.00 /mo	Starts at $129.00 /mo – $1,799.00 /mo

Making the right choice

Let us walk you through the must-know factors when you’re checking out link management tools.

Detailed insights

A good link management tool should offer comprehensive analytics, providing insights into link performance, click-through rates, and geographic data.

User-Friendly interface

The tool should have a user-friendly interface, making it easy to navigate and use. A straightforward design minimizes the learning curve for users.

Link protection

Ensure the tool offers security features to protect your links from malicious activities, such as link cloaking and spam prevention.

Compatibility

Check if the link management tool integrates seamlessly with other marketing and analytics tools you use, such as social media platforms or email marketing software.

Retargeting features

Consider advanced tools that offer link retargeting, allowing you to target ads to users who have interacted with your links. This can significantly improve conversion rates.

Transparent pricing

Choose a tool with clear and transparent pricing structures. Be aware of any hidden fees or limitations on link usage.

Mobile responsiveness

With an increasing number of users accessing content on mobile devices, ensure that the tool’s interface is mobile-responsive for a seamless user experience.

Customer support

Consider a tool that offers multiple support channels, such as chat, email, or phone support.

Documentation and resources

A well-documented tool with resources like tutorials and FAQs can be valuable for troubleshooting and learning.

Bitly Vs TinyURL Vs Replug: Feature analysis

In this section, we’ll discuss the key features you need in a link management tool.

Check how your favorite tools handle these features and whether their pro and agency pricing plans include them or not.

Branded short links

Branded links are custom, shortened URLs that incorporate a brand or company’s name, helping to reinforce brand identity and recognition.

Benefits of short links:

Shorter links often appear less suspicious than long URLs overloaded with parameters and codes, leading to higher click-through rates.
These links are easier to type manually on mobile devices or voice assistants.
Allows personalization with custom domains or keywords, boosting brand recognition and enabling tracking of specific campaigns.

Tool	Pro/ Growth plan	No. of Custom Domains	No. of Branded Links	Agency/ Premium / Bulk plan	No. of Branded Links	No. of Custom Domains
Replug	Yes	5	Unlimited links	Yes	Unlimited links	10
Bitly	Yes	1	500 links/month	Yes	3,000 links/month	1
TinyURL	Yes	Not specified	50,000 links/ month	Yes	100,000/month	Not Specified

Short verdict: Draw

All three tools offer branded short links. However, Replug takes a little edge by providing the option to create an unlimited number of branded links and connect more domains in both its plans.

On the other hand, Bitly offers up to 3000links/mo in its premium plan. And TinyURL offers up to 100,000/month in its bulk plan. Still, you can consider pricing and other features when choosing.

White-label board

A white-label solution allows you to rebrand a product or service as your own. This means you can remove any branding from the original provider and replace it with your logo, name, and colors.

Benefits of white-label solution:

High customization options, tailoring products or services to specific needs, ensuring alignment with unique business requirements.
Contributes to significant cost savings, as businesses avoid the expenses associated with developing and maintaining, freeing up resources for other strategic investments.
Provides a quick route to market by allowing brands to swiftly launch products or services without the time-consuming process of in-house development.

Now, let’s find out which of your favorite tools offers the advanced white-label solution:

Tool	Pro/ Growth plan	Agency/ Premium / Bulk plan
Replug	No	Yes
Bitly	Does not offer	Does not offer
TinyURL	Does not offer	Does not offer

Short verdict: Replug

Replug takes the lead with white-label solutions in its agency plan, surpassing Bitly and TinyURL, which do not provide this feature.

Advanced link tracking

It’s a cutting-edge feature that provides in-depth insights into the performance of your shortened URLs, helping you understand user engagement and optimize your marketing strategies.

Benefits of link tracking

Get valuable data on click-through rates, geographic location of users, and more.
Tailor reports to your specific needs, and get detailed insights into user behavior.
Track conversions accurately and measure the success of your campaigns.

Tool	Pro/ Growth plan	Tracking History	Agency/ Premium / Bulk plan	Tracking History
Replug	Yes	Forever	Yes	Forever
Bitly	Yes	120 days	Yes	1 year
TinyURL	Yes	2 years	Yes	2 years

Short verdict: Replug

Replug and Bitly excel in advanced link tracking, but Replug outshines with unlimited tracking history, whereas Bitly’s premium plan provides a maximum of 1 year. TinyURL, though offering up to 2 years, falls short with basic analytics.

Retargeting pixel

A retargeting pixel enables marketers to identify users who have previously visited their site or socials and deliver targeted advertisements to them across various platforms.

Benefits of retargeting pixel

Show targeted ads to past visitors, reminding them of your brand and encouraging them closer to completing that purchase.
Retargeting helps you spend smarter, leading to better ROI on your ad budget.
Use insights to shape a precise digital marketing strategy and deliver a personalized customer experience.

Tool	Feature availability (Pro / Growth plan)	No. of Retargeting Links	Feature availability (Agency/ Premium / Bulk plan)	No. of Retargeting Links
Replug	Yes	Unlimited	Yes	Unlimited
Bitly	Does not offer	–	Does not offer	–
TinyURL	Does not offer	–	Does not offer	–

Short verdict: Replug

Clearly, Replug is the winner here. Both the other competitors Bitly and TinyURL do not provide this feature.

Learn more about retargeting pixel

Deep links

Deep links eliminate the need for users to navigate complex app menus or search endlessly for specific content. With a single tap, they are directed straight to the relevant section within the app, creating a smooth and frustration-free journey.

Benefits of deep links:

Can be tailored to individual users based on their preferences, location, or previous actions.
When switching between platforms (e.g., website to app), deep links remove any friction by automatically opening the app and directing users to the relevant content.
Get valuable data on user behavior within the app, such as which campaigns drove them to specific content.

Tool	Feature availability (Pro / Growth plan)	Agency/ Premium / Bulk plan
Replug	No	Yes
Bitly	No	Yes
TinyURL	No	No

Short verdict: Replug

Replug and Bitly both offer deep linking in their Premium plans, but Replug’s $79/mo agency plan is a more budget-friendly choice compared to Bitly’s premium plan at $199/mo. Meanwhile, TinyURL doesn’t enter the deep linking arena.

Bio links

Bio-links consolidate multiple links into a single URL, commonly used in social media profiles to share various content simultaneously.

Benefits of bio-links:

Allows you to display various profiles, websites, blogs, or landing pages, giving users a wider picture of your brand
Customize your bio-link with clear calls to action and engaging descriptions, influencing how users perceive you.
Analyze click data to gauge its success and identify areas for improvement.

Tool	Pro/ Growth plan	No. of Bio Links	Agency/ Premium / Bulk plan	No. of Bio Links
Replug	Yes	25	Yes	50
Bitly	Yes	2	Yes	5
TinyURL	Does not offer	–	Does not offer	–

Short verdict: Replug

Replug and Bitly offer similar customization options for bio link pages, but Replug takes the lead by allowing a greater number of bio link pages, providing users with more versatility in creating personalized content destinations.

QR codes

QR codes bridge the gap between offline and online experiences. Users can access websites, social media pages, videos, or other content by simply scanning the code with their smartphones, eliminating the need to manually type lengthy URLs or usernames.

Benefits of QR codes:

Users swiftly access information by scanning QR codes, enhancing user experience.
Can be printed on physical materials like packaging or billboards, directing users to relevant online content.
Monitor QR code scans to gather valuable insights into user behavior and preferences.

Tool	Feature availability (Pro / Growth plan)	Agency/ Premium / Bulk plan
Replug	Yes	Yes
Bitly	Yes	Yes
TinyURL	Does not offer	Does not offer

Short verdict: Bitly

While TinyURL falls short by not providing QR codes, both Bitly and Replug excel in this feature. It’s worth noting that Bitly goes the extra mile, offering a broader range of quick and advanced QR functionalities compared to Replug.

Learn more about QR codes

CTA generation

CTA generation facilitates the creation of compelling call-to-action buttons, optimizing user engagement and conversion rates.

Benefits of CTA

Well-designed CTAs prompt users to take desired actions, boosting conversion rates.
Tailor CTA buttons to match brand messaging, ensuring consistency in communication.
Strategic CTAs with relevant keywords can improve your search engine ranking

Tool	Pro/ Growth plan	Agency/ Premium / Bulk plan
Replug	Yes	Yes
Bitly	Does not offer	Does not offer
TinyURL	Does not offer	Does not offer

Short verdict: Replug

Looks like we have a clear winner here. Which is Replug. As both the other competitors do not provide the option to custom create CTA’s.

Taking everything into account, the top performer is…

None other than Replug, it’s the one-size-fits-all solution. Considering the multitude of factors, its unparalleled link management features, lead generation capabilities, comprehensive analytics, and user-friendly interface collectively position it as the top performer.

Clearly, Replug offers:

An Advanced feature set

Thinking about Bitly and TinyURL? Well, Replug goes above and beyond. While others keep it basic Replug brings you smart retargeting links, White-label solutions, A/B testing, link rotator, custom CTA’s, UTM builders, and detailed analytics.

Top-notch customer support

Need help? Replug’s got your back. Unlike Bitly and TinyURL, where support can be average in basic plans, Our team is always there for you. Your success matters to us, and we’re ready to make sure you get the most out of Replug.

Better pricing plans

Let’s talk money. We keep it simple and friendly. No surprises, no hidden fees. Unlike Bitly, which might play tricks with your budget, and TinyURL, which is a bit basic, Replug gives you affordable plans with all the cool features you need. Making your online game strong without breaking the bank? That’s Replug for you

See how Replug benefits different industries

Influencers & Content Creators: Showcase multiple links to portfolio sites, social media platforms, and merch stores. Customize landing pages with engaging visuals and stories.
Artists & Musicians: Promote music, merch, upcoming shows, and social media profiles all in one bio link.

Check out: Replug for Content Creators

Social Media Marketers: Create dedicated landing pages for specific campaigns, track clicks, and conversions, and A/B test link performance.
E-commerce Businesses: Promote product launches, highlight discounts, and link to specific product pages or categories.

Check out: Replug for E-commerce Marketers

Overall, Replug is a powerful toolbox that meets specific needs, helping businesses and marketers enhance their online presence, engagement, and conversion rates. Whether you’re focusing on branding, testing, retargeting, or analytics, Replug stands out as the top choice for a complete and effective link management strategy.

FAQs

What is the best URL shortener?

Replug stands out as the ultimate URL shortener with its advanced analytics, branding control, and conversion optimization features. It’s the go-to choice for businesses looking to maximize their online presence and drive more conversions.

Why do people use TinyURL?

People use TinyURL for its simplicity and convenience in shortening long URLs.

What are the disadvantages of Bitly?

While Bitly is a popular URL shortener, it does have some limitations. These may include limited customization options, basic analytics compared to other platforms, and potential restrictions on certain features depending on your subscription plan.

What is better than Bitly?

Replug offers a comprehensive solution with advanced features that surpass those of Bitly. From customizable branding to powerful conversion optimization tools, Replug empowers businesses to elevate their online marketing efforts and achieve better results.

Is Replug expensive?

Replug offers transparent pricing with affordable plans starting at $19/month. It’s an investment that can boost your agency’s efficiency and effectiveness.

Does Replug offer a free trial?

Yes, Replug offers a free trial so you can try out its features before you buy.

What are the benefits of using a branded short link?

Branded short links increase brand visibility, foster recognition, and trust, and are more likely to be clicked on than generic short links.

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. But what you might not realize is that the way you share these online treasures can significantly impact your brand.

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

We’re going to cut through the noise and discuss the difference between branded vs. short links. We’ll help you understand the implications of your choice and how it can affect your brand’s online identity. So, let’s get straight to it!

What is a short link?

A short link, also known as a short URL, is a compressed version of a long web address or URL. Short links are created to simplify lengthy URLs, making them easier to share, remember, and use, especially in contexts where character limits are a concern, such as social media or printed materials.

Short links typically redirect users to the original, longer URL when clicked. They are especially useful for sharing links on platforms like Twitter, where character limits for a single tweet are in place. Instead of using a long and cumbersome URL, you can generate a short link that directs users to the intended web page.

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.

Branded links are a fantastic choice for businesses and individuals looking to enhance their online branding, improve user engagement, and create a polished and trustworthy online presence.

Short vs. branded links: Which is better?

Branded links can indeed offer several advantages, especially when it comes to strengthening your brand identity and increasing user trust. They are valuable for businesses and individuals looking to create a cohesive online presence and improve user engagement.

The choice between branded links and short links eventually depends on your specific goals and the context in which you plan to use them. Let’s explore the benefits of each:

Branded links:
- Strong brand identity: Branded links reinforce your brand identity, incorporating your brand name or a custom keyword. This can boost brand recognition and user trust.
- Higher click-through rates: Branded links often have higher click-through rates as they appear more trustworthy and relevant to users.
- Enhanced user experience: They offer a user-friendly and memorable link, making it easier to recognize and share.
- Consistency: Branded links maintain a consistent brand image across different online platforms.
- Analytics: You can track the performance of branded links and gain valuable insights into user engagement.
Short links:
- Conciseness: Short links are compact and ideal for contexts with character limits like social media or text messages.
- Space-saving: They save space in printed materials, enhancing aesthetics and usability.
- Universal use: Short links are versatile and can be used for various types of content.
The choice depends on your priorities:

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 paramount, short links are suitable, especially in platforms with character constraints. They shine when the focus is on the content rather than the link.

Popular brands are using branded links:

Let’s take a look at how some of the most popular brands use branded links to their advantage:
1. 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.
1. Nike – swoo.sh
When it comes to sports and lifestyle, Nike is a household 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.
1. 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.
1. Coca-Cola – cokeurl.com
Coca-Cola, a global beverage icon, maintains brand consistency by using branded links like cokeurl.com. This approach ensures that every link shared aligns with their brand image.
1. Starbucks – sbux.co
Coffee giant Starbucks 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.

Boost ROI with
branded URLs!
Enhance your marketing campaigns by creating shareable, trackable, and fully multi-purpose customizable branded URLs.
Try Replug for free

How to create short branded links?

Are you ready to start using branded links for your own brand? Replug, a powerful URL shortening and branding tool, simplifies the process of creating custom short branded links. Let’s walk through the steps to create these links and amplify your brand’s reach.

Adding your custom domain

The first step in creating branded links with Replug 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.

Also read: What is a Branded Short Domain and How Do I Get One?

Follow these steps to add your custom domain:

Step 1: Access custom domains
- Open your Replug dashboard and navigate to “Settings.”
- Select “Custom Domains” from the dropdown menu.
Step 2: Add a new domain
- Click on “Add Domain” to begin setting up your custom short URL.
Step 3: Connect the custom domain
- On the next screen, provide essential details, including your custom domain and settings like the 404 redirect URL and branded domain.
- Click “Connect” to add your custom domain to your Replug account.
Step 4: Manage your custom domain
- 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.
Note: To complete the domain setup, don’t forget to point the CNAME in your domain registrar’s DNS. Depending on your registrar, you might need to use “@” or “www” as the HOST value.

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

Step 5: Add a new link
- Once logged into your Replug dashboard, select “Select your campaign” to start a new campaign.
- You’ll find the custom domain you just created within your campaigns.
- Paste the original link you want to shorten in the “URL to shorten” section.
- Click “Create” to generate a custom shortened URL.
Also read: How to Create a Short URL: Step-by-Step Guide

Step 6: Customize your shortened URL
- Enjoy the flexibility to customize your shortened URL. Select an alias or keyword to incorporate into the link, making it memorable and aligned with your brand.
- Click “Update” to generate your custom shortened URL.
Step 7: Share and monitor
- Utilize your custom-shortened URL in marketing materials, social media posts, emails, or any content where you want to promote your link.
- Monitor the performance of your custom shortened URLs using Replug’s comprehensive analytics and tracking features, which provide insights into clicks, user location, referrals, and more.
Maximize marketing ROI
by transforming ordinary URLs into
branded short links that convert. Try Replug for free

FAQs

What is the difference between a branded link and a short link?

A branded link includes your brand name or a custom keyword, making it more recognizable and trustworthy. Short links, on the other hand, are simply shortened versions of long URLs, often generated randomly.

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

Branded links enhance your brand identity, boost user trust, and increase brand recognition. They also offer a more user-friendly and memorable link for sharing.

Are branded links more trustworthy than short links?

Branded links tend to be perceived as more trustworthy by users because they include a recognizable brand name, which can reduce suspicions of spam or phishing.

Can I track the performance of branded links, and how can I do that?

Yes, you can track branded link performance. Most branded link services offer analytics and tracking features to monitor clicks, geographic data, and more.
October 5, 2023
SMS Marketing: How to Use Short Links for SMS?
Looking for a way to reach your customers and increase engagement in a way that doesn’t get lost in their inboxes? Enter SMS marketing! With an incredible average open rate of 98%, SMS marketing offers a direct, effective, and engaging way to reach your target audience.

But why stop there? You can take your SMS marketing to the next level with the use of short links. By integrating shortened URLs into your SMS messages, you can not only save valuable character space but also gain valuable insights into your audience’s behavior.

So, whether you’re a small business owner looking to reach more customers or a marketer looking to take your campaigns to the next level, SMS marketing with short links can help you achieve your goals.

Get ready to discover how short links can help you revolutionize your SMS marketing campaigns and reach your target audience with an even greater impact. So, let’s jump in and explore the possibilities!

Also Read: 17 Successful Black Friday Marketing Strategies

What is SMS marketing?

SMS marketing is a digital marketing strategy that involves sending promotional text messages to customers and potential customers. SMS stands for Short Message Service, which is the technical term for text messaging. SMS marketing allows businesses to communicate with their customers in a direct and immediate way, without the need for email, social media, or other forms of digital marketing.

What are short links for SMS marketing?

Short links for SMS are shortened URLs that are used in SMS marketing messages to save valuable character space and improve tracking and analytics. Short links work by redirecting the user to the intended landing page or website while tracking data such as 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 businesses to track click-through rates and other valuable data that can be used to optimize their SMS marketing campaigns.

To create a short link, businesses can use a URL shortening tool, which takes a long URL and converts it into a faster, more manageable link. Many of these tools also offer analytics and tracking capabilities to help businesses gain insights into their SMS marketing campaigns. Short links are an essential component of SMS marketing, helping businesses to engage customers, drive traffic, and ultimately increase sales.

How to get started with short links for SMS marketing?

Getting started with short links for SMS marketing has never been easier! All you need to do is sign up for a link shortener tool and you’re good to go. But, with so many options out there, how do you know which one to choose?
- Choose a link-shortening tool:
  Replug is the best choice! As an industry leader, Replug offers a range of powerful features for link shortening, tracking, and analysis, making it an ideal tool for SMS marketing. Don’t settle for less when it comes to your SMS marketing – sign up for Replug today and start seeing results!
- Create your shortened link:
  Let’s say you choose 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 dashboard and generating a new, shortened link.
If you are promoting a sale on your website, for example, your shortened link could look like this: Replug.link/spring-sale. This link is short, memorable, and clearly communicates the purpose of the campaign.

Here’s how to create a shortened link with Replug!
- Use custom domain:
  You can further personalize your shortened links by using custom domains or branded links. This involves creating a custom domain that reflects your brand name and using that domain to create shortened links.
For example, if your brand name is “ABC Pizza,” you could create a custom domain like “abcpizza.link” and use it to create shortened links for your SMS campaigns, like “abcpizza.link/newflavor.”

This adds an extra layer of personalization to your SMS marketing efforts and can help increase brand recognition and trust.

Here’s how to create a custom domain with Replug!
- Track your links:
  Once you have sent out your SMS campaign, you can use Replug’s analytics features to track the performance of your link. For example, you can see how many clicks your link received and where those clicks came from.
- Include a call to action:
  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.
- Test your links:
  Before sending out your SMS campaign, test your shortened link by clicking on it and making sure it takes you to the correct destination. You can also use Replug’s link testing tool to check if your link is working properly.
Also Read: Benefits Of A Link Rotator: Why & When To Use Rotating Links?

Why use short links for SMS marketing?

Short links are a must-have tool for businesses looking to up their SMS marketing game. By using shortened links in SMS marketing, businesses can save space in messages, track engagement, provide a better user experience, increase brand recognition, and optimize campaigns for better results. Here are some compelling reasons why use short links for SMS marketing!
- Save space in SMS messages:
  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.
- Track engagement:
  Shortened links can be used to track clicks and engagement, giving businesses 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 campaigns accordingly.
- Provide a better mobile user experience:
  Most people access SMS messages on their mobile devices, and shortened links can lead to a better user experience on these devices. For example, an airline can send an SMS message with a shortened link to a mobile boarding pass, making it easy for passengers to access and use the pass on their mobile devices.
- Increase brand recognition:
  Shortened links can be customized with branded domains, helping to increase brand recognition and trust. A fashion brand can send an SMS message with a shortened link to a new collection, using a branded domain like “www.fashionbrandname.com/newcollection“.
- 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.
Also Read: Brand Consistency: Build Brand Consistency Using Branded Links

Short link success stories: Brands that have aced SMS marketing with short links

Here are some examples of how brands are using short links for SMS marketing:

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 allows Dunkin’ Donuts to measure the engagement and optimize their campaigns for better results.

Subway:

Subway uses SMS marketing to send coupons and special offers to its customers. To provide a better user experience, they use shortened links that lead customers to a mobile-friendly coupon page. This allows customers to easily redeem the offer on their mobile devices.

Coca-Cola:

Coca-Cola uses SMS marketing 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 uses SMS marketing to send personalized recommendations to its customers. 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 SMS marketing to promote new collections and limited-time offers to its customers. To increase engagement and drive sales, they use shortened links that lead customers to a product page with the featured 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.

Also Read: Top 22 Personal Branding Tools To Upscale Your Marketing

FAQs

What is a short link?

A short link is a condensed URL that redirects to a longer destination URL. It is typically used to save space in messages and track link clicks.

Also Read: How to Disguise a Link Using a URL Shortener?

How do I create a short link for SMS marketing?

To create a short link for SMS marketing, you can use link shortener tools such as Replug, or TinyURL. Simply paste your long URL into the tool and it will generate a shortened link for you to use in your SMS messages.

How do I track engagement with short links in SMS marketing?

Most link shortener tools provide analytics and tracking features that allow you to track clicks and engagement on your shortened links. This can give you valuable data on the effectiveness of your campaigns and help you optimize future campaigns for better results.

Can I customize my short links with a branded domain?

Yes, many link shortener tools allow you to customize your short links with a branded domain, which can help increase brand recognition and trust.

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

You can optimize your SMS marketing campaigns using short links by conducting A/B testing, analyzing engagement data, and adjusting your campaigns based on the insights you gain. This can help you improve the effectiveness of your campaigns and achieve better results.

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March 6, 2023
How to shorten LinkedIn URL?
Shortening a LinkedIn URL can make it easier to share and remember, especially if the original URL is long and complex. It can also make it more visually appealing and professional-looking, which can help to increase click-through rates.

Additionally, using a shortened URL can help to track clicks and engagement on the link, which can be helpful for analytics and marketing purposes.

You can shorten a LinkedIn URL in two ways.
- Shorten LinkedIn URL directly on LinkedIn
- Shorten LinkedIn URL with a URL shortener
Let’s look at both these methods for shortening your Linkedin URL. Also, why should you shorten the LinkedIn URLs with a URL shortener?

Note: LinkedIn URLs can only be shortened via a browser, not through LinkedIn’s mobile app.

Also Read: Long URL Problem Solved: Use Cases and Examples

How to shorten LinkedIn URLs directly on LinkedIn?

Step 1: Open your LinkedIn profile and click the profile icon in the top right.

Step 2: Click view profile from the drop-down menu to open your profile.

Step 3: Click edit public profile & URL from the right side menu.

Step 4: Click the edit icon under edit your custom URL menu.

Step 5: Type the URL you want for your LinkedIn and click save.

How to shorten LinkedIn URLs with a URL shortener?

Replug is a link management platform that allows users to shorten, brand, and track links. Follow the steps below to shorten your LinkedIn URL using Replug:

Step 1: Sign in to Replug or create an account for free.

Step 2: Select the desired campaign on the main dashboard or create a new one in a few seconds.

Step 3: Paste your LinkedIn URL in the “URL to shorten” tab under the campaign and click create.

Step 4: Your new LinkedIn URL will be created. Click the edit icon and customize your URL slug.

Step 5: Once done customizing the LinkedIn URL click the update button, and you’re done.

An important point to note:

The image above shows that Replug offers many insightful features with a URL shortener. If you shorten URLs with Replug, you have access to these features, increasing your marketing efforts’ effectiveness.

Why use Replug to shorten your Linkedin URL?

Replug is a link management platform that allows users to shorten, brand, and track their links. Using Replug to shorten a LinkedIn URL, users can use the platform’s features, such as link branding and tracking.

Link branding allows users to customize the appearance of the shortened URL by replacing the default “replug.link” with a custom domain name that aligns with their brand.

The tracking feature allows users to track clicks, location, and other engagement metrics on the link, which can be useful for understanding how the link is being used and who is engaging with it. This data can help users optimize their marketing and outreach efforts.

Additionally, Replug provides the feature of retargeting, by which users can retarget the people who clicked the link, which can be very useful for sales and marketing teams.

Can we shorten the LinkedIn URL on the LinkedIn mobile app?

LinkedIn does not offer a built-in feature to shorten URLs on the mobile app. However, there are third-party link-shortening services that you can use to shorten a LinkedIn profile URL.

Examples of these services include Replug, Bitly, TinyURL, and Rebrandly. Simply enter the LinkedIn profile URL into the service, and it will generate a shorter version of the link that you can share.

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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 URL shortener to create a call to action has a few key benefits.

First, it can make long and complex URLs 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.

[branded_short_links]

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 can also help to track the effectiveness of the CTA, as 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:

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.

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.

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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