Shortened URL Checker

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Paste a shortened URL to reveal its final destination and full redirect chain.

Enter any public `http://` or `https://` shortened link to see the final destination and redirect chain.

What is a Shortened URL Checker?

A shortened URL checker (also called an unshorten link tool or URL expander) reveals the real destination of a shortened URL without you having to click it. Shortened URLs from services like bit.ly, TinyURL, and t.co can hide the actual destination, making it difficult to know where a link really leads.

This tool follows the redirect chain step by step and displays every intermediate URL, the HTTP status code at each step, and the final destination. It also works for regular URLs that go through multiple redirects, giving you full visibility into where a link ultimately takes you.

How to Use This Shortened URL Checker

Using this unshorten link tool is quick and straightforward. Follow these steps:

  1. Copy the shortened URL — Copy the link you want to check from your browser, email, or messaging app.
  2. Paste it into the input field — Paste the shortened URL into the input field above (e.g., https://bit.ly/example).
  3. Click Check URL — The tool will trace the redirect chain and show you the final destination.
  4. Review the results — Check the final URL, HTTP status code, and full redirect chain with each step's status and location header.
  5. Copy the final URL — Use the copy button to copy the resolved destination URL to your clipboard.

Example Use Cases

Here are some common situations where a shortened URL checker comes in handy:

  • Verify link safety — Before clicking a shortened link from an unknown sender, check where it redirects to avoid phishing or malicious websites.
  • Debug redirect chains — Developers can trace redirect chains to identify broken or unexpected redirects during website migrations or URL changes.
  • Social media link inspection — Unshorten t.co (Twitter), fb.me (Facebook), or other platform-specific short links to preview where they lead.
  • Affiliate link verification — Check that affiliate links are redirecting to the correct destination without unwanted intermediate hops.
  • Email link preview — Before opening a shortened link in a marketing email or newsletter, verify that it leads to the expected website.

Frequently Asked Questions

What URL shorteners are supported?

This tool works with any public http:// or https:// URL, including bit.ly, TinyURL, t.co, ow.ly, is.gd, buff.ly, and any custom short domains that use standard HTTP redirects (301, 302, 303, or 307).

Is this tool safe to use?

Yes. This tool only follows HTTP redirect headers — it does not execute JavaScript, load external resources, or interact with the destination page. The final URL is displayed for your review without exposing your browser to any potential threats.

What does the HTTP status code mean?

HTTP status codes like 301 (Moved Permanently) and 302 (Found) indicate different types of redirects. A final 200 (OK) status means the destination is reachable. Other codes like 404 (Not Found) or 410 (Gone) indicate that the destination URL may be broken or removed.

Can I check multiple redirect hops?

Yes. This tool follows the entire redirect chain and displays each hop as a separate step. You can see every intermediate URL, the status code at each step, and the Location header value that tells the browser where to go next.

What is the difference between a short URL and a regular URL?

A short URL is a compressed version of a long URL created by a URL shortening service. When you visit a short URL, the service issues an HTTP redirect to the original long URL. Regular (unshortened) URLs point directly to the destination without an intermediate redirect.

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Last updated: 17 Aug 2026

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