Set up a custom short domain

A custom short domain replaces a generic short link with one that carries your brand — for example go.yourbrand.com/spring instead of a shared domain. Branded links look more trustworthy and get clicked and typed more often.

Why it matters

• Trust. People are wary of unfamiliar short domains. Your own name reassures them.
• Recognition. Every share reinforces your brand.
• Consistency. All your printed and digital links use the same recognisable root.

What you need

• A domain (or subdomain) you control.
• Access to that domain's DNS settings, usually through your registrar or hosting provider.

A dedicated subdomain such as go. or link. is the common pattern, because it keeps your main website separate.

Step 1: Add the domain

1. In your dashboard, open Organization settings and find Custom domains.
2. Add the subdomain you want to use (for example, go.yourbrand.com).

Step 2: Update DNS

1. Copy the DNS record shown in the dashboard (typically a CNAME).
2. In your DNS provider, create that record pointing your subdomain at the target shown.
3. Save. DNS changes can take anywhere from a few minutes to a few hours to propagate.

Step 3: Wait for verification and SSL

Once DNS resolves, the domain is verified and an SSL certificate is issued automatically, so your links work over secure https. You do not need to manage certificates yourself.

Step 4: Start using it

New short links and QR destinations can now use your branded domain. Existing links keep working; you can decide whether to recreate key ones on the new domain.

Troubleshooting

• Domain not verifying. Double-check the record type and value exactly, and remember propagation can be slow. Use a DNS lookup tool to confirm the record is live.
• Certificate pending. SSL is issued after DNS verifies; give it time after the record resolves.

Branded links pair especially well with offline tracking, where a clean, typeable URL matters.