Parameters in redirects · Documentation-based guide

GCLID lost during redirects: step-by-step diagnosis

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Short answer

To diagnose lost GCLID or UTM parameters, follow every hop from the entry link to the landing page and check which parameters survive. A synthetic value only tests transport; it is not a real click and must not be imported as a conversion.

Key verification: Record the URL and parameters at each hop, then verify capture and attribution after transport.

Sources and limitations

If Google Ads sends visits but their contacts lose the origin, check if the redirects preserve the click identifier. The diagnostic should follow the URL from the ad to the final page. Don't generate a fictional GCLID for upload conversions: a test value only checks the parameter transport.

What must survive the journey

Google explains that auto-tagging adds information to attribute clicks and conversions, and warns that redirects should not remove the GCLID. Also check that your landing pages load the intended measurement settings. Self-labeling and official diagnosis of labels.

A redirect due to a change in domain, language, trailing bar or campaign can modify the URL query. Check the first point where the parameter disappears, not just the link the browser shows at the end.

Synthetic transport test

https://example.com/oferta/?gclid=prueba_transporte_no_valida&utm_campaign=auditoria_interna

This is an example of real clickless diagnostics. Replace the domain with a page that you control and avoid mixing testing with commercial conversions. The text allows you to check whether the value survives exactly; It does not validate that Google can recognize it or that the conversion is importable.

Redirect-hop log

GCLID lost during redirects: step-by-step diagnosis: table 1
Point What to record Interpretation
Start URL Complete query before browsing Essay reference
Each redirect Destination and preserved parameters Locate the first loss
End Page URL and Authorized Measurement Payload Transport does not equal capture
Test contact Origin and supported technical field Verify reception in the lead tool

Save screenshots without real visitor identifiers. To investigate your journey, use your browser's network tools and retain your browsing log where appropriate.

Correction by the technical manager

  1. Identify which layer produces the jump: hosting, CMS, link service or page code.
  2. Reviews the rule that builds the destination and its treatment of the query.
  3. Correct only that rule in a controlled environment.
  4. Repeats URLs with and without parameters and with other values that the website uses legitimately.
  5. Check that no loops or unsafe destinations are generated.
  6. Validate a test contact and reviews the change after publishing.

Do not forward all parameters to any uncontrolled domain: some may contain information that should not be shared. The fix must preserve the functionality and security of the destination, as well as the necessary identifiers.

If the parameter arrives, but the attribution is still wrong

Check tracking permissions, installation, capture time, and source rules. It separates transporting, capturing, and sending conversions into three tests. WhatConverts documents your connection to Google Ads and the conditions that trigger the submission; It is not enough for a URL to contain a parameter. Official connection with Ads .

The dynamic phone replacement is another diagnostic, and the native import of calls uses its own process. The closing criterion here is to locate and repair a demonstrable loss of parameters.

WhatConverts can provide lead traceability after the journey, with validated installation. You don't need to hire another tool to correct a redirect that deletes data on your website.

Sources and limitations

Documentary review: . Content type: Documentation-based guide.

Sources describe terms and capabilities stated by their owners. Proposed protocols and fictional examples do not establish product tests performed by CallsIQ.

How to report a correction

Check current terms

Consider these options if they solve the problem described. Confirm features, limits and availability in your country.

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How this guide was prepared

Official sources, explained calculations and clearly labelled examples. Read about our methodology and use of AI in writing.