Return 404 HTTP status for removed videos and include expiration dates in video sitemaps.
- Return 404 HTTP status for removed videos and include expiration dates in video sitemaps1 cited source1 category
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Why this matters
Signaling video removal clearly to search engines avoids user frustration from stale search results and helps keep index accurate.
Hypothetical standard operating procedure
Adapt this example to your site, access, tools, and change process. It is our suggested procedure, informed by the sources below.
- Configure server to return proper 404 status for removed video pages.
- Create and maintain video sitemap with <video:expiration_date> tags for videos that are removed or expired.
- Ensure mRSS feeds include <dcterms:valid> tags for same purpose.
- Test removed video URLs and sitemap correctness using webmaster tools.
- Regularly audit video sitemap and URL removal statuses to keep index fresh.
Watch for
Not indicating removed videos causes search engines to display outdated results leading to poor user experience.
Definition of done
Removed videos return 404 status and video sitemap includes expiration dates for these videos.
Sources & attribution
Original checklist wording and example SOP by Best SEO Checklist, using source-grounded AI assistance. Editorial contact: Ted Kubaitis, @tedkubaitis on Teams. Check current source guidance before implementation.