What it is
The short code is the path after your short domain:go.acme.com/{shortCode}. linkutm stores one mapping per code; clicks on the code redirect to your full UTM-tagged destination URL.
When to use it
- Always - every link gets a short code, auto-generated or custom.
- When the slug appears in print, on a podcast read, or anywhere a human reads it aloud.
- Skip customization for ads - auto-generated codes are fine and prevent typos.
How to set one
- Auto-generated
- Custom slug
Leave the Custom slug field empty when creating a link. linkutm generates a 7-character alphanumeric code.
Real-world example
| Use case | Slug strategy | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Paid ads | Auto-generated | go.acme.com/k7m2qpz |
| Email newsletter CTA | Auto or themed | go.acme.com/may-deal |
| Podcast read | Memorable, brand-tied | go.acme.com/acme-pod |
| QR on print | Short, no ambiguity | go.acme.com/menu |
Common mistakes
Reusing a slug
Reusing a slug
Short codes are globally unique across linkutm. If the system says “already exists”, pick another - even if no one in your workspace uses it.
Long descriptive slugs
Long descriptive slugs
q2-2025-product-launch-google-ads defeats the purpose. Aim for ≤15 characters.Special characters
Special characters
Only
a-z, 0-9, - allowed. Underscores, slashes, periods get rejected.Edge cases
Renaming an existing slug. Edit the link → change Short code. Old slug stops working immediately (404). All historical clicks remain attached to the link’s analytics.
System paths. Slugs that collide with system paths (
api, health, docs, favicon.ico) won’t resolve through the redirect. Avoid these as custom slugs.Archived links. An archived link’s slug returns 404, not the destination. Unarchive to restore.
Expired links. Past
expiresAt returns 410 Gone. Clear or update the expiration to revive.