Custom short links are a powerful way to enhance brand identity, build trust with your audience, and improve click-through rates. A custom short link isn’t just a trimmed-down URL; it’s a branded tool that communicates professionalism and ensures consistency across all your digital campaigns.
In this article, we’ll explore why custom short links matter, how to create them, and some of the best tools available to get started.
Why Use Custom Short Links?
Brand Recognition:
Custom short links include your brand name, making them instantly recognizable. For example, instead of a generic link like bit.ly/3DfXz, you could have yourbrand.co/sale2025.
Trust and Credibility:
Generic links may appear suspicious or spammy, but branded links reassure users that the URL is legitimate and trustworthy.
Better Click-Through Rates:
Studies show that branded links can improve click-through rates by up to 34%, as they’re more engaging and user-friendly.
Enhanced Tracking:
Many URL shorteners allow you to integrate tracking parameters (UTMs) to monitor the performance of custom short links in your campaigns.
How to Create Custom Short Links
Step 1: Choose a URL Shortener
You’ll need a reliable URL shortening tool that supports branded links. Some of the best options include:
Rebrandly: Excellent for custom domains and UTM tracking.
Bitly: Popular for its analytics and link customization.
T2M: Ideal for unlimited link shortening with branded options.
Step 2: Register a Custom Domain
To create truly branded links, you’ll need a custom domain.
Example: Instead of bit.ly, you can use yourbrand.co or a creative variation like go.yourbrand.com.
Purchase domains from providers like Namecheap, GoDaddy, or Google Domains.
Step 3: Connect the Domain to Your URL Shortener
Most URL shorteners provide an easy setup process to connect your custom domain. This typically involves updating your domain’s DNS settings. Follow the step-by-step instructions provided by url shortener the service.
Step 4: Create Your Short Links
Once your domain is set up, you can start creating custom short links:
Paste your long URL into the shortening tool.
Customize the link ending (slug) to match your campaign or content.
Example: yourbrand.co/summer-sale or go.yourbrand.com/guide2025.
Save and share!
Best Practices for Custom Short Links
Keep It Simple and Relevant:
Ensure the slug (the part after the slash) is concise and directly related to the content.
Incorporate Keywords:
Use keywords that describe the content, which can improve SEO and make the link more appealing.
Monitor Performance:
Regularly track clicks and engagement metrics to measure the success of your custom short links.
Update Broken Links:
Many URL shorteners allow you to edit or redirect links. Use this feature to maintain usability and avoid broken URLs.
Popular Tools for Creating Custom Short Links
Rebrandly
Offers full customization with branded domains.
Provides detailed analytics.
Bitly
User-friendly interface for creating custom short links.
Basic branding available in the free plan.
TinyURL Pro
Allows custom domains for branded links.
Affordable paid options with branding features.
Short.io
Seamless custom domain setup.
Includes link expiration and advanced analytics.
Conclusion
Custom short links are a small but impactful way to elevate your digital marketing efforts. By reflecting your brand in every link you share, you increase trust, improve click-through rates, and make tracking performance easier. Whether you’re running a campaign, sharing resources, or promoting events, branded links ensure your message is delivered with clarity and professionalism.
Start today by choosing a URL shortener and creating custom links that truly represent your brand!