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How to shorten a URL

A short link replaces a long, messy web address with a few characters that are easy to share, print and remember. Here is how to make one and get the most from it.

Shorten a link in four steps

1. Copy the full address of the page from your browser’s address bar.
2. Paste it into the box on the 0h.vc home page.
3. Optional: type a custom ending such as spring-sale so the link reads 0h.vc/spring-sale.
4. Press Shorten link, then copy the result. You can also download a QR code for it.

When a short link helps

• Posts and bios where space is limited, such as social media profiles.
• Print material, slides and packaging, where people have to type or scan the link.
• Emails and messages where a very long address looks untidy or breaks across lines.
• Campaigns, because you can count clicks and see where they came from.

Choosing a good custom ending

Keep it short, readable and descriptive. Use lowercase letters, numbers and hyphens. Pick something people can say aloud, like summer-menu, rather than a random string.

Track what happens after the click

Add campaign tags with the UTM link builder before shortening. Then open your dashboard to see clicks per day, countries, devices and referring sites for every link.

Share safely

• Preview any 0h.vc link without being redirected by adding a plus sign to the end, for example 0h.vc/spring-sale+.
• Only open short links from people you trust, and report suspicious ones on our abuse page.

Common questions

Does a short link slow the page down? The redirect adds a fraction of a second. Can I change the destination later? Yes, with an account you can edit where a link points without changing the short URL. Is it free? Yes, you can start without signing up. Paid plans add branded domains, passwords, expiry dates and more history.

Ready? Shorten your first link. You might also like branded short links explained and how to add a link to your Instagram bio.