Documentation

Short Links

A short link is a redirect. HikrLink counts every click server-side before the visitor's browser loads.

How to create a short link

  1. Click + New Link in the top-right of your dashboard.
  2. Paste your long URL into the Destination URL field.
  3. (Optional) Customize the back-half slug — e.g. hikrl.ink/summer-sale.
  4. (Optional) Add a title so you can find it later.
  5. Click Shorten. Your short link is ready to copy and share.

Creating a short link takes under 10 seconds.

Link options you can set

OptionWhat it does
Custom slugChoose a memorable path (e.g. /sale, /register)
Title / tagLabel your links for searching and reporting
Expiry dateAutomatically deactivate a link after a set date
PasswordProtect the destination with a password gate (Pro+)
Redirect type301 (permanent) or 302 (temporary) redirect control

How to choose a good slug

Use descriptive slugs instead of random strings. hikrl.ink/black-friday-deal is more trustworthy and easier to read aloud than hikrl.ink/ab3x7. Branded slugs increase click-through rates and work in podcasts, videos, and print.

Tip: Use a naming system like [brand]-[campaign]-[channel]. When you have hundreds of links, this makes searching and reporting effortless.

How to edit the destination of an existing link

Open the link in your dashboard and click Edit. Change the destination URL and save. The short link stays the same — all existing shares and QR codes keep working.

How to delete a link

Open the link, click the three-dot menu, and select Delete. Deleted links immediately stop redirecting and return a 404.

Caution: Do not delete links with active QR codes on printed materials. Use the expiry date or deactivate the link instead.

Frequently asked questions

Does changing the destination URL break the short link?

No. The short link stays the same. Only the destination changes. All existing shares, printed materials, and QR codes keep working.

What redirect type should I use?

Use 302 for campaigns with changing destinations or temporary promotions. Use 301 for permanent brand links. Note: 301 redirects are cached by browsers, which can delay updates if you change the destination.

How many links can I create on the free plan?

100 links per month on Starter. Links do not expire — the monthly limit applies to creation only.

Can I edit the slug after creating a link?

No. The slug cannot be changed after creation. This ensures existing shares and QR codes are never broken. Create a new link and deactivate the old one if you need a different slug.

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