Link Intelligence
URL Expander
Expand shortened URLs to see the full redirect chain and verify where a link will take you before you click.
The URL Expander follows redirects to reveal the final destination behind a shortened or redirected link. It lists each hop, shows status codes, and highlights the final URL so you can verify where a click will take you.
Redirect chain
Results will appear here with each hop, status code, and the final destination URL.
What this tool does
The URL Expander follows redirects to reveal the final destination behind a shortened or redirected link. It lists each hop, shows status codes, and highlights the final URL so you can verify where a click will take you. This provides a quick safety check before sharing or opening a link.
When to use this tool
Use it when you receive shortened links in emails or chats, when you need to audit marketing URLs, or when you want to confirm that a redirect chain is configured correctly. It pairs well with Meta Analyzer and Meta Tag Preview when reviewing how a final URL will appear in search and social previews.
How it works
The tool sends a request to the provided URL, records the response, and follows redirects until it reaches a final destination or a limit. Each step is recorded with its status code and URL so you can see the full chain. It does not load page content; it only resolves redirects.
Example use case
A teammate sends a shortened link for a campaign. Paste it into the expander to confirm it resolves to the correct landing page and uses HTTPS. If the chain includes an unexpected domain, you can flag it before the link is shared with customers.
Use cases
- Verify shortened links before sharing them.
- Check redirect chains in a marketing campaign.
- Spot unexpected domains in shared links.
Notes & limitations
Some services require cookies or JavaScript redirects, which this tool may not follow. Certain domains may also block automated checks. If a chain looks incomplete, open the link in a controlled environment for a full review. Avoid expanding unknown links on shared devices.
Expanded links often include tracking parameters such as UTM tags. Consider whether you need to keep or remove them before sharing. If you plan to publish the final URL, verify the destination metadata with the SEO tools on this site so previews remain accurate.
