When building or managing websites, understanding HTTP status codes is like knowing the secret language of the internet. These codes help servers and browsers communicate effectively. Among these, the 308 redirect deserves a spotlight—especially if you're looking for a clear, efficient way to guide users to new URLs without losing important details from their original requests.

Let’s break it down so it’s simple and straightforward.

What is a 308 Redirect?

Think of the 308 redirect as a friendly nudge. It’s a way of saying, “Hey, this page has moved—permanently—but don’t worry, everything else stays the same.” It keeps the original request method (like POST or GET) intact, ensuring smooth continuity for actions like form submissions or file uploads.

A 308 redirect helps keep everything familiar and functional while settling into a new "home" URL.

308 vs. 301 Redirect: Spotting the Difference

Both 308 and 301 redirects let users (and search engines) know that a page has moved permanently, but there’s a key difference:

  • A 301 redirect doesn’t guarantee that the original request’s method will be preserved. 
  • A 308 redirect, however, explicitly keeps everything as is—method, data, and all—offering consistency for more complex requests.

When Should You Use a 308 Redirect?

308 redirects are especially handy when preserving request methods matters. Here’s when they shine:

1. Form Submissions or File Uploads: If users submit sensitive information or upload important files, a 308 ensures that their actions carry over without a hitch.

2. Permanent URL Changes: Whether you’re restructuring your website or moving to a new domain, a 308 provides clarity and maintains functionality.

Benefits of a 308 Redirect

Why choose a 308 redirect? It comes with some reassuring perks:

  • Keeps Everything in Place: By preserving HTTP methods, it avoids errors or data loss, making it a safe choice for more complex requests.
  • SEO-Friendly: Just like a 301 redirect, search engines recognize a 308 as permanent, so you don’t lose hard-earned rankings.
  • Clear and Consistent: There’s no room for mixed signals—clients know exactly how to proceed.
  • Future-Ready: As part of the HTTP/1.1 spec, it aligns with modern web standards and practices.

How to Implement a 308 Redirect

Whether you’re managing a small website or a sprawling web application, setting up a 308 redirect doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Here are some easy ways to get started:

Using Code:

If you’re working with server-side code, you can manually set a 308 redirect. For example, in PHP:

php

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<?php  

$newUrl = 'https://example.com/new-location';  

header('HTTP/1.1 308 Permanent Redirect');  

header('Location: ' . $newUrl);  

exit();  

?>  

Configuring Your Web Server:

With tools like Apache or Nginx, you can include a 308 redirect in your configuration files. For Apache’s .htaccess, it looks like this:

apache

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Redirect 308 /old-location https://example.com/new-location  

Common Missteps to Avoid

Like leaving out treats during Halloween, there are a few things to watch for:

  • Confusing it with 301 Redirects: Remember, 308 preserves request methods; 301 doesn’t.
  • Browser Compatibility Worries: Most modern browsers support 308 redirects, so issues with older ones are fading away.
  • Overuse: Don’t use a 308 redirect where a simpler redirect (like a 301 or 302) would suffice.
Published by Michael Cahill in SEO Strategy