Migration from WordPress to Webflow - How Much Does It Cost? What to Prepare for?
Are you considering migrating your site from WordPress to Webflow ? It’s natural to wonder if such a change makes business sense and if it will bring real benefits. In this article, we’ll walk you through all aspects of such a decision, including costs and technical challenges.
WordPress has dominated the content management system market for years, but more and more companies are switching to Webflow. The main reason is the much simpler management of the site. While WordPress requires constant plugin updates, security, and often developer support, Webflow offers a comprehensive solution that works "out of the box." You don't have to worry about security updates or conflicting plugins - Webflow takes care of all of that automatically.
The key difference between these platforms lies in their approach to building pages. WordPress relies on templates and plugins, often requiring compromises between design and functionality. Webflow lets you create fully custom pages without writing code, while giving you full control over the look and feel of your site. It's like going from a ready-made suit from a chain store to a custom-made suit - you get exactly what you need.
Migrating to Webflow will be particularly profitable for companies that:
- They need a fast and responsive website that will have a positive impact on SEO
- They want to manage content on their own without the help of a programmer
- They appreciate modern design and personalization options.
- They are fed up with constant problems with plugins and updates
- They are looking for a platform that "just works" without any technical complications
However, before making a decision to migrate, it is worth thoroughly analyzing the costs and required resources. In the following parts of the article, we will present detailed calculations and aspects that should be taken into account so that the migration process runs smoothly and brings the expected results.
Migration process stages
Moving from WordPress to Webflow is a complex process that requires careful planning and a systematic approach. To ensure a successful migration, it is important to thoroughly understand each of its stages.
1. Analyzing your current WordPress site
The process of migrating from WordPress to Webflow starts with a detailed analysis of the existing site. This is a fundamental step where we take a close look at the architecture of the site, examining how its structure and content hierarchy are organized. We check all the content types present on the site - from standard pages and posts, to custom post types and products.
We pay special attention to the plugins we use and the functionalities that we will need to recreate in Webflow.
2. Content and functionality audit
The next step is to create a thorough inventory of the site's content. During this stage, we document all existing subpages, blog posts, forms, and media. This is a key moment where we also make decisions about which elements we want to carry over unchanged and which require redesign or updating.
3. Designing a new structure in Webflow
Once we have a full picture of the current site, we move on to designing a new structure in Webflow. At this stage, we create a clear information architecture and plan how to organize content in the Webflow CMS. This is also the moment when we define the global design system and plan how the site will behave on different devices.
4. Transfer of content and resources
The actual migration from WordPress to Webflow starts with content migration. This is the most time-consuming step, during which we export the content from WordPress and import it to Webflow. This process requires not only text migration, but also optimization of all media and Collections configuration in the Webflow CMS system.
5. Testing and optimization
After transferring all content, we conduct comprehensive tests. We check whether the page displays correctly on various devices, we test all functionalities and forms. We pay special attention to SEO and page performance aspects, which are crucial for its later functioning.
6. Launch of a new page
The final stage is a precisely planned implementation. We configure the domain and SSL certificate, set up redirects from the old site, and monitor traffic. It is also very important to train the team in the use of the new CMS system so that they can efficiently manage the site after migration.
Learn more about securely deploying pages in Webflow →
The average time to migrate a medium-sized business website from WordPress to Webflow is 6 to 12 weeks. This time can vary depending on the complexity of the project and the amount of content to be migrated. In the next section, we’ll look at potential technical challenges that can arise during migration and how to solve them.
Potential technical challenges
Migrating from WordPress to Webflow comes with a number of technical challenges that are worth knowing before you begin the process. Understanding these potential obstacles will help you better prepare for the migration and avoid any unpleasant surprises along the way.
Transferring the database
One of the biggest challenges when migrating from WordPress to Webflow is moving the database. WordPress stores data in a MySQL structure, while Webflow uses its own CMS with a completely different architecture. This means we can’t just copy the database—we have to think about how to reorganize the information to fit the Webflow data model. Migrating custom content types and the relationships between them can be particularly complex.
Content and Media Migration
When migrating content, we often run into formatting issues. WordPress uses the Gutenberg editor or the classic TinyMCE editor, whose formatting may not translate one-to-one to the Webflow system. Nested elements, custom shortcodes, and custom Gutenberg blocks require special attention. Additionally, all media must be optimized for performance and adapted to the requirements of Webflow.
SEO behavior and redirects
The key is to maintain the position you have earned in search results. When migrating from WordPress to Webflow, we need to ensure that all meta tags, descriptions, and titles are transferred correctly. It is particularly important to configure 301 redirects for all URLs so that the SEO value of the old addresses is not lost. It is also worth remembering to maintain the structure of headings and properly mark the content with semantic HTML tags.
Integrations with external systems
WordPress is known for its huge number of plugins and integrations. When migrating to Webflow, we need to find alternative solutions for all the external systems we use. This can include analytics tools, mailing systems, CRMs, or payment platforms. Sometimes it is necessary to write our own integrations using the Webflow API.
Adaptation to mobile devices
Responsiveness in Webflow works a bit differently than in WordPress. We have to rethink how a site adapts to different screen sizes. Custom interface elements, such as navigation menus or complex layouts, require special attention. Each element must be carefully tested on different devices.
See our approach to responsive design in Webflow →
Despite these challenges, a well-planned migration from WordPress to Webflow can go smoothly. The key is thorough preparation and working with an experienced team that has already completed similar projects. In the next section, we will discuss how migration can affect the current functioning of your business.
Business impact during migration
The process of migrating from WordPress to Webflow is not only a technical challenge - it is also a significant organizational change that can affect the day-to-day functioning of your company. Understanding the potential impact on your business will help you better prepare for the process.
Webflow migration process duration
The total time it takes to migrate from WordPress to Webflow depends on the size and complexity of your site. For a typical business site, the process usually takes 6 to 8 weeks. Larger projects, especially those with a complex blog or store, can take up to 12 to 16 weeks. During this time, your team will need to devote some of their resources to collaborating on the migration, providing materials, and testing the new site.
Potential Downtime When Migrating from Wordpress
A well-executed migration from WordPress to Webflow should not cause long downtimes in the operation of the site. The new site is built in parallel to the existing one, which minimizes the risk of unavailability. However, you should expect a short, usually several-hour downtime during the final domain transfer. It is worth planning this moment for the period of the lowest traffic on the site, usually at night or on a weekend.
Risk management
To minimize the impact of migration on your business, it is worth implementing several key strategies. First, you need to create a precise schedule with clearly defined milestones. Second, it is important to create regular backups at each stage of the process. Additionally, we recommend conducting preliminary tests on subdomains before we start the actual migration.
Emergency plan
Even the best-planned WordPress to Webflow migration can encounter unexpected difficulties. That’s why it’s crucial to have a solid backup plan. It should include procedures for quickly reverting to the old version of your site in the event of critical issues. It’s also a good idea to have communications ready for customers in case of any delays or technical issues.
Remember that proper preparation and cooperation with an experienced team significantly reduce the risk associated with migration. In the next chapter, we will discuss how to prepare the team and resources to carry out the entire process smoothly.
Preparing the team and resources
The success of a WordPress to Webflow migration largely depends on the proper preparation of the team and the appropriate management of resources. This is a key stage that is often underestimated, but has a huge impact on the smoothness of the entire process and the subsequent functioning of the site.
Team training
Moving to a new platform requires extensive training for everyone involved in managing the site. When migrating from WordPress to Webflow, special attention should be paid to the differences between the systems. Webflow, while intuitive, has a completely different approach to content management than WordPress. Training should be done gradually, even before the final transfer of the site, so that the team has time to get used to the new tool.
Technical documentation
Thoroughly documenting all aspects of a new site is essential to its smooth operation. During the migration from WordPress to Webflow, we create detailed documentation that describes the site structure, guidelines for adding content, and procedures for troubleshooting common issues. This documentation will be an invaluable resource for current and future team members.
New Content Management Procedures
Webflow introduces new possibilities, but also requires different procedures than WordPress. It is necessary to establish clear rules for adding and updating content, managing media, and making changes to the design. Well-defined processes will help avoid chaos and ensure the consistency of the site in the long term.
Technical support after migration
Even the best-trained team may need support in the first weeks after migrating from WordPress to Webflow . It’s important to provide quick access to support, whether it’s a dedicated specialist or a support service. The first weeks after migration are crucial for detecting and resolving potential issues that may have been missed during testing.
Properly preparing your team and resources takes time and investment, but it pays off in the form of improved site performance and team confidence in their daily work. In the next section, we’ll look at the long-term benefits and ROI of migrating to Webflow.
ROI and long-term benefits
Migrating from WordPress to Webflow is a significant investment that brings tangible benefits in the long run. Let's take a look at how this decision affects various aspects of your website and business.
Savings on maintenance
One of the most tangible benefits of migrating from WordPress to Webflow is the lower cost of maintaining a website. Unlike WordPress, where regular plugin and system updates generate fixed costs, Webflow offers a comprehensive solution with automatic updates. You no longer have to worry about premium plugin fees or additional security - everything is included in one, predictable monthly fee. Our clients report an average 30-40% reduction in maintenance costs per year.
Increased page performance
After migrating your site to Webflow, you will notice a significant improvement in its performance. The platform generates clean, optimized code, which translates into faster loading times and better PageSpeed test results. This not only improves the user experience, but also positively affects your Google positioning. Sites migrated from WordPress to Webflow often see a 20-30% improvement in Core Web Vitals scores.
Content management made easier
Webflow introduces an intuitive content management system that eliminates the common pitfalls of WordPress. The visual editor allows you to make changes without knowing the code, while maintaining full control over the look. Marketing teams especially appreciate the ability to create complex layouts without the help of programmers, and the global style system that ensures visual consistency across the entire site.
Better user experience
Migrating from WordPress to Webflow is also an opportunity to significantly improve UX. The platform offers advanced animation and interaction capabilities that can be implemented without writing complex code. This translates into higher conversion rates and increased time on site. Our statistics show that sites after migration record an average 25% increase in user engagement.
Remember, the full benefits of a migration usually come in the first 3-6 months after implementation. During this time, your team will fully understand the platform’s capabilities and users will appreciate the improved site experience. In the next section, we’ll provide a practical checklist to help you prepare for the migration process.
Pre-migration checklist
Before you start migrating from WordPress to Webflow , it's worth preparing thoroughly for the entire process. Proper planning of all elements significantly increases the chances of a smooth migration.
Necessary resources and budget
The basis for a successful migration from WordPress to Webflow is securing the right resources. The financial plan should include not only the costs of the migration itself, but also expenses for hosting, domains and possible integrations with external systems. Based on our experience, it is worth reserving an additional 15-20% of the budget for unforeseen situations. It is equally important to secure human resources - defining who from the team will be involved in the project and for what time period.
Schedule of activities
Precisely planning all stages of the WordPress to Webflow migration is crucial to the success of the project. A typical schedule should start with a two-week preparation phase, including an audit of the current site and architecture planning. Then we anticipate 4-6 weeks for the actual migration and development, plus an additional 2 weeks for testing and corrections. Remember to include periods of high traffic on the site or important marketing campaigns in the schedule.
Key people and roles
Successful migration depends on clear division of responsibilities. You need a project coordinator to oversee the entire process, a content person to ensure the correct transfer and organization of content, and a technical specialist to configure servers and domains. It is also worth appointing people to test the new site - preferably from different departments of the company, so that they can look at the project from different perspectives.
Critical points of the process
When migrating from WordPress to Webflow, you should pay special attention to a few key moments. The first is the content transfer stage - this is where surprises often appear related to formatting or custom elements. The second critical point is the configuration of redirects - errors at this stage can result in a loss of position in search results. Finally, the moment of switching to a new page requires special attention and preparation of a backup plan.
With this checklist in place, you can begin the migration process with greater confidence. In the next section, we will summarize the most important aspects of the entire process and outline the next steps you should take.
Summary
The decision to migrate from WordPress to Webflow is a significant step for any organization. Let’s summarize the most important aspects of the process to help you make an informed decision and plan your next steps.
Estimated total costs
The total cost of migrating from WordPress to Webflow depends on several key factors. For a medium-sized company website, you should prepare a budget in the range of PLN 10-15 thousand. This amount includes not only the migration itself, but also the necessary design work, testing and optimization. In addition, there are annual maintenance costs in Webflow, which usually amount to around PLN 1,200 per year, depending on the chosen plan. It is worth remembering, however, that in the long run, this investment pays off through lower maintenance and development costs of the website.
The most important success factors
The key to a successful migration from WordPress to Webflow is thorough preparation and a systematic approach to the process. The most important success factors are, above all, a thorough audit of the current site, precise planning of the new structure, and the involvement of appropriate specialists. Proper training of the team and preparation of detailed documentation are also particularly important. Our experience shows that projects in which these elements are taken care of run much more smoothly and bring better results.
Next steps
If you are considering migrating from WordPress to Webflow , here are the recommended next steps:
- Conduct an initial audit of your current WordPress site, paying particular attention to the features that need to be preserved.
- Consult with Webflow experts who will help assess the complexity of your project and propose optimal solutions.
- Prepare a preliminary budget and schedule, taking into account all the aspects discussed in this article.
Schedule a free migration consultation →
Migrating from WordPress to Webflow is a complex process that requires careful planning and execution, but with the right preparation it can bring significant benefits to your business. If you need support in this process, our team of experts is ready to help you every step of the way.
Remember that each migration project is unique and may require an individual approach. We encourage you to contact us to discuss the details of your project and find the best solution for your company.