Consider alternate extensions: If your top choice isn't available, consider using a country code TLD (ccTLD) such as .to or .co. It works almost immediately and you can shorten as much as you want, anytime. Shortcomings[edit] Short URLs often circumvent the intended use of top-level domains for indicating the country of origin; domain registration in many countries requires proof of physical presence within that country, although a redirected URL has no such guarantee.
If you're willing to pay, consider Pretty Link Pro or these low cost solutions on Code Canyon. Maybe you find an interesting photo or song, or you want to refer people to another article someone else wrote. Some websites allow other websites to create links. This is achieved by using a redirect which links to the web page that has a long URL.
Here’s an article that will show you how to shorten links for Twitter. Professional marketers never sent traffic directly to their website or landing page. And though it is unlikely that Bit.ly will be shut down, they are still a middleman.
My third choice, which was once my first choice, is Bitly. In Tiny, click the “Stats” page button under the URL to access the statistics. You could create a complex UTM code structure for a link but then shorten it via Bitly and use the link on a piece of direct mail. Edit short URLs or QR codes to fix broken pages any time I need it.
Other Features If you hang out in Bitly.com long enough, you’ll discover several other features for further customizing your links and stats page. And though it is unlikely that Bit.ly will be shut down, they are still a middleman. Tracking Opened Emails Companies running email campaigns often want to be able to track how many times their emails were opened. Links to Sailthru Hosted Pages are not tracked and are not included in reporting. It is stored in your My Sailthru Settings under Setup > Domains. Organize all my important digital resources with easy to remember, keyword-rich short links.