Migrating from Concrete5 to WordPress in 2025 is increasingly crucial for businesses seeking scalability, enhanced performance, and enterprise-level flexibility. Whether you're preparing for end-of-life Concrete5, future-proofing your web presence, or unlocking the full power of WordPress SEO, this expert guide details actionable steps for a successful, zero-downtime CMS migration.​

Why Switch from Concrete5 to WordPress?

With Concrete5's diminishing support and market share dropping to under 0.5%, more organizations are proactively upgrading to WordPress — the fastest-growing CMS powering over 40% of global websites. Key reasons for migration include:​

  • Superior plugin and theme ecosystem
  • Advanced SEO tools and integrations
  • Robust content management capabilities
  • Responsive support community and regular updates

WordPress offers flexible architecture, third-party integrations, and highly intuitive editing, making it the preferred content management solution for both SMEs and enterprises.​

WordPress Advantages: Unlock Next-Level Site Performance

Transitioning to WordPress delivers tangible improvements in site speed, scalability, and content management:

  • SEO Optimization: Advanced metadata, automatic sitemap generation, and redirect management for boosting organic traffic
  • Ecosystem Growth: Huge selection of both free and premium plugins and themes for custom functionality
  • Security and Stability: Regular updates, secure code base, and exceptional support from a global developer community
  • Mobile Responsiveness: Native mobile optimization across all major devices for better user engagement​

Pre-Migration Checklist: Prepare Your Concrete5 Site

Proper planning ensures a painless migration. Before starting:

  • Full Backup: Secure your website files and database using hosting tools or manual export​
  • Content Audit: List essential assets (pages, posts, media, custom code) and assess priorities
  • SEO Review: Document existing URL structures, implement a migration redirect strategy, and back up custom meta tags
  • Custom Configurations: Note custom blocks, integrations, or theme elements that may require manual redevelopment​

Step-by-Step Guide: Migrating from Concrete5 to WordPress

1. Export Concrete5 Content:

Use Concrete5's official Migration Tool addon to create XML and ZIP exports of pages, blocks, files, and other content. Install the Migration Tool through your dashboard and follow the prompts to select the assets you want to move.​

2. Transform and Map Content:

  • Convert exported XML or CIF data into WordPress-compatible formats using data transformation tools or manual editing.​
  • For small websites, copy-paste content directly into WordPress. For larger sites, use CSV imports or migration plugins like WP All Import for custom mapping.​

3. Import to WordPress:

  • Use WordPress Importer or third-party plugins (e.g., CMS2CMS, WP All Import) to import posts, pages, media, and custom fields.
  • Recreate navigation menus and widget areas using WordPress's built-in tools.
  • Restore custom themes and blocks where required.

4. Setup SEO Redirects:

Implement 301 redirects for all legacy URLs to the new WordPress paths using plugins like Redirection, ensuring no loss in search ranking and maintaining all inbound backlink value.​

5. Launch and Test:

  • Perform end-to-end testing: review migrated content, media, and forms; test across devices and browsers.
  • Optimize performance (caching, image compression), security (SSL, updates), and accessibility features.

Manual vs. Automated Migration: Making the Right Choice

Manual migration provides granular control for custom or complex sites, but is resource-intensive. Automated solutions (migration tools, services, or plugins) streamline bulk transfers and reduce error risk for standard implementations. Assess your site's structure, volume, and customizations before choosing.​

Overcoming Common Migration Challenges

  • Broken Formatting: Review and fix imported content for styling and structure discrepancies
  • Media File Issues: Bulk upload media files to the WordPress library, remap links as necessary
  • SEO Risks: Use professional plugins to replicate old SEO settings; audit post-migration rankings and update Google Search Console

Establish a thorough post-migration QA plan to address any anomalies quickly.​

Post-Migration Optimization: Getting Maximum WordPress Value

After migration:

  • Monitor your WordPress site for broken links, missing images, and SEO issues
  • Apply performance upgrades: caching plugins, CDN integration, and mobile optimizations
  • Schedule regular backups and updates for maximum security

Consider ongoing maintenance and support services for streamlined management and peace of mind.​

FAQ: Concrete5 to WordPress Migration

  • Can I keep my current domain? Yes, you can retain or change your domain, with expert help ensuring a smooth DNS transition.​
  • Will SEO rankings be affected? Proper 301 redirect implementation and careful SEO auditing preserve rankings and backlink equity.​
  • How long does migration take? Timeline depends on site size and complexity; typical migrations range from a few hours (small sites) to several days (large or custom sites).​
  • Do I need developer help? For automated migrations, experienced plugins suffice; for custom or enterprise sites, professional assistance is highly recommended.​

Ready to transform your Concrete5 site and leverage the full power of WordPress in 2025? With this expert migration guide, you can ensure seamless migration, maintain SEO, and long-term scalability for your online business presence.