What Free Migration Includes
What a Free Migration Offer Means
A free website migration is a service in which a hosting provider moves your site to its servers at no charge, usually as an incentive to sign up. It is a common selling point, but “free” describes only the price. The scope is set by the terms, which decide what is moved, how many sites are covered and what happens if something goes wrong.
General migration concepts are covered in website migration. This article focuses on what free offers typically include and leave out.
What Hosts Typically Include and Exclude
- Often included: copying the files and databases of one site, or a small number of sites.
- Sometimes excluded: email accounts, which may need separate work or a fee.
- Often excluded: custom server setups, complex applications and sites above a size limit.
- Varies: whether the provider handles the DNS switch or leaves it to you.
- Varies: whether the service includes testing, or a period of support after the move.
What You Still Need to Do
Even with a free migration, you usually have preparation to do. Note any email accounts and third-party services connected to the site, and list features such as contact forms or payment tools that depend on specific settings. Confirm in writing what the provider will move and by when.
After the move, check the site on the new host before relying on it. Confirm that pages, forms, email and any scheduled tasks work. Ask about the deadline for reporting problems, because some offers cover only issues raised within a set window.
Frequently asked questions
Is a free website migration worth it?
It can be, if the scope matches your site. For a single standard site with no email, a free move can save real time and effort. For larger or more complicated sites, check the limits first, because the work may fall outside the offer and a fee may apply. Compare the offer with the cost of doing the move yourself.
Does a free migration guarantee no downtime?
No. A free migration service does not guarantee zero downtime. Some providers coordinate the switch to reduce interruption, but the terms decide who is responsible for what. For sites where downtime matters, plan the cutover carefully, as explained in switching hosts without downtime. Also watch for fees that appear later, covered in hidden hosting costs.