To redirect a link with the Bitly API, use the /v4/custom_bitlinks endpoint. A PATCH request to /v4/bitlinks cannot be used to update a link's destination URL (i.e. to redirect the link).
To use the Bitly API to redirect a link:
Redirecting links via the API is a two-step process. First, create a new short link to the new destination URL. Do this by API with a POST request to /v4/shorten or manually in the Bitly web app.
Then, send a PATCH request to /v4/custom_bitlinks. This assigns the long URL from the new short link to the existing one that you want to redirect. Include this information:
- bitlink_id — the short link that goes to the correct destination URL
- custom_bitlink — the existing short link that you're redirecting to the new destination
Your monthly limits apply to links created and redirected through the API. Each of our subscription plans has a different monthly limit for redirects. You can view your current usage and limits on the billing and usage page in your account settings.
A redirected link also counts as a new link, meaning it counts against your monthly link limit. If you hit your link limit, you won't be able to redirect any links until the start of the next month. Some plans allow you to purchase additional links and redirects.