How to Shorten Affiliate Links in 2025 (Free Methods + Tools)

Affiliate links are often long and complex. There's no getting around it.

A typical Amazon affiliate link looks like this:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08N5WRWNW?tag=yoursite-20&linkCode=ogi&th=1&psc=1&keywords=wireless%20headphones

When users hover over that link, they see a wall of tracking parameters. Even though it's completely legitimate, it looks suspicious.

This is why smart affiliate marketers shorten and simplify their links.

What is Link Shortening?

Link shortening transforms your long, complex affiliate URL into a cleaner redirect link.

Instead of:

amazon.com/dp/B08N5WRWNW?tag=yoursite-20&linkCode=ogi&th=1

You get:

g.iu.pe/headphones

The destination is the same. But the link looks professional and trustworthy.

Why Shorten Your Affiliate Links?

1. Higher Click-Through Rates

Studies consistently show that clean URLs get more clicks than long, parameter-filled ones. Users associate short URLs with legitimate sources.

2. Protection from Link Hijacking

Some users strip affiliate tags from URLs before purchasing. Shortened links make this harder (though not impossible).

3. Easier Link Management

When an affiliate program changes their URL structure, you update one redirect instead of hunting through hundreds of blog posts.

4. Better Analytics

Most link shortening tools include click tracking. You'll know exactly which links get clicked, from where, and on what devices.

5. Cleaner Appearance

In emails and social media, long URLs look spammy and may trigger filters. Clean redirects look professional.

How to Shorten Affiliate Links (3 Methods)

Method 1: Free Online Tools (Fastest)

The quickest way to shorten a link is with a free online tool.

LinkDisguiser (linkdisguiser.com):

1. Paste your affiliate URL
2. Choose a redirect mode (instant, countdown, or preview)
3. Copy your shortened link
4. Track clicks in the dashboard

No signup required. Free tier includes unlimited links and full analytics.

Method 2: WordPress Plugins

If you run a WordPress site, plugins can create redirects on your own domain.

Popular options:

• ThirstyAffiliates (free + paid)
• Pretty Links (free + paid)
• Easy Affiliate Links

These create links like yoursite.com/recommends/product-name.

Pros: Links on your domain, full control
Cons: Requires WordPress, takes more setup

Method 3: Manual Redirects

For maximum control, set up redirects manually on your server.

Best Practices for Link Shortening

Do:

• Use descriptive slugs (/go/blue-headphones not /go/a1b2c3)
• Track your clicks to optimize content
• Test links after shortening to ensure they work
• Keep a spreadsheet of all shortened links

Don't:

• Use shorteners on platforms that prohibit it (check TOS)
• Use link shortening to hide the nature of affiliate relationships
• Forget to disclose affiliate relationships (FTC requirement)

Disclosure Requirements

Shortening links doesn't remove your obligation to disclose affiliate relationships.

The FTC requires clear disclosure "before" users click affiliate links. A simple statement works:

"This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you."

Choosing the Right Tool

For most affiliate marketers, a free tool like LinkDisguiser is sufficient. You only need WordPress plugins if you want links on your own domain.

Conclusion

Link shortening is a simple change that can meaningfully improve your click-through rates. Clean links look more trustworthy, are easier to manage, and give you valuable analytics.

Start by shortening your highest-traffic affiliate links and compare the results.