Shortened URL Checker

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