Custom Permalink

A custom permalink is a user-chosen URL slug that replaces the auto-generated random identifier in a publication's web address. Instead of sharing a link like go.fliplink.me/v/a3f8x2, you can set a clean, readable path such as go.fliplink.me/v/2024-catalog. Custom permalinks make URLs memorable, brandable, and easier to share across both print and digital channels. The term "permalink" itself comes from "permanent link" — the idea that this URL should remain stable over time, even as the underlying content is updated or replaced. A custom permalink gives you control over what that permanent address looks like.

URLs are often the first thing a recipient sees before deciding whether to click. A descriptive permalink like /spring-catalog builds trust and signals professionalism, while a string like /v/a3f8x2 looks auto-generated and can feel suspicious or disposable. Clean URLs also improve [SEO](/glossary/seo) by giving search engines meaningful keywords in the path, increasing the chance your publication appears in relevant search results. Beyond search, custom permalinks matter for offline use — when you print a URL on a business card, poster, or product packaging, a short readable slug is far more practical than a random string. And because the permalink persists even when you [replace the PDF](/glossary/replace-pdf), existing links and QR codes continue working after content updates.

When you publish a flipbook or document in FlipLink, you can set a custom permalink in the publication settings. Type any slug you want, and FlipLink checks that it is unique across your account. The permalink applies instantly to your share link. If you later need to change it, you can update the slug without creating a new publication — the old URL simply stops resolving, directing visitors to the new one. Combined with FlipLink's [SEO and social preview](/features/seo-and-social-previews) settings, your custom permalink works alongside meta titles, descriptions, and Open Graph images to maximize click-through rates when the link is shared on social media or in search results. When paired with a [custom domain](/features/custom-domains), the result is a fully branded URL like catalog.yourbrand.com/spring-collection — no mention of FlipLink in the address at all.

- **Use lowercase and hyphens.** Stick to lowercase letters, numbers, and hyphens. Avoid spaces, underscores, or special characters — they make URLs harder to read and can cause encoding issues. - **Keep it short but descriptive.** A slug like /annual-report-2026 is ideal. Avoid both extremes: /ar26 is too cryptic, and /our-comprehensive-annual-report-for-the-year-2026 is too long. - **Include a keyword.** If the publication targets a searchable topic, include a relevant keyword in the slug. A catalog named /outdoor-furniture-catalog has more SEO value than /catalog-spring. - **Plan for updates.** If you publish recurring content (monthly magazines, seasonal catalogs), consider a naming convention like /catalog-spring-2026 so each edition has a distinct, predictable URL. - **Set the permalink before sharing.** Once you distribute a URL via email, print, or social media, changing it means breaking those existing links. Finalize the slug before the first share. - **Coordinate with your domain.** If you use a [custom domain](/features/custom-domains), plan the permalink as part of the full URL. The combination of domain + slug creates your complete brand address.

1. Open the publication settings in FlipLink after uploading your PDF. 2. Locate the "Custom Permalink" field in the share settings. 3. Enter your chosen slug — lowercase, hyphen-separated, no spaces. 4. FlipLink validates uniqueness. If the slug is taken, try adding a year, edition number, or category prefix. 5. Save the settings. The new permalink is active immediately. 6. If using a custom domain, verify the domain is connected and the full URL resolves correctly. 7. Configure [SEO and social previews](/features/seo-and-social-previews) — meta title, description, and OG image — so the link looks polished when shared. 8. Test the link by opening it in an incognito browser window before distributing.

Custom permalinks are valuable in any scenario where the URL will be seen, shared, or printed: - **Marketing campaigns.** Email blasts, social posts, and paid ads all display the destination URL. A clean permalink improves click-through rates. - **Print materials.** Business cards, brochures, posters, and product packaging often include URLs. A short, readable slug is essential for print. - **QR codes.** While QR codes hide the URL visually, a custom permalink makes the destination clear when users preview the link before opening. - **Internal distribution.** Team members sharing resources internally benefit from descriptive URLs that indicate the document's purpose at a glance. - **Recurring publications.** Magazines, monthly reports, and seasonal catalogs need consistent, predictable URLs that follow a naming pattern across editions. If a publication is a one-time internal test or a draft that will never be shared externally, the auto-generated ID is fine. For anything public-facing, set a custom permalink.