A practical checklist before moving website hosting
A hosting move should be planned as a small handover project, not just a file upload. First confirm what can move, protect a recoverable copy and test the replacement. Keep the old arrangement available until the website and connected services have been checked.
Before you start
- List the current host, website platform, domain supplier and email provider.
- Record the pages, forms and booking links your business relies on.
- Ask for a written move plan, suitable backup and named person responsible for the change.
What to do
Confirm that the website is portable
A self-hosted WordPress site has different requirements from Wix or Squarespace. Do not assume a website-builder subscription can be replaced by uploading its pages elsewhere. Confirm supported exports, licences and any rebuild work before purchasing new hosting.
Protect content and current activity
Ask the person handling the move to verify the backup contains everything needed for recovery. For WordPress, files and the database are separate parts. Agree how edits or enquiries received during the move will be handled so the replacement is not missing recent information.
Review the private replacement
Check page content, images, menus, mobile layouts and important links before the domain changes. Ask for an agreed redirect list if page addresses change. Staging should not become a second public copy competing with the main site.
Approve and verify the connection
Confirm email dependencies and the rollback plan before approving DNS work. After launch, check the real public address, HTTPS, old page links and an authorised form delivery test. Get the checks and remaining responsibilities recorded before cancelling the previous host.
What to check
- The domain remains registered to you.
- The live site, forms and email have separate verification results.
- You know where backups, billing and support now sit.
Sources and further reading
Platform features can change. Check the provider’s current guidance before changing a live service.