Using a custom domain for referral links

A custom referral link domain lets you create referral links which use a domain you own. When you add a custom link domain, each referral link will still be shortened but will now start with your provided domain.

Choosing a Domain

The first thing you need to do is choose a domain.

IMPORTANT You need a spare domain. You cannot use a domain that's already in use for another purpose

You have 2 options:

1. Subdomain: Use a subdomain on your existing company domain. For example "go.yourstore.com", where "go" is the subdomain part. You can use whatever subdomain you like as long as it is not already in use for anything else. Please check with your IT department. Other subdomain ideas: "link.yourstore.com", "share.yourstore.com"
2. Dedicated domain: A domain for use solely for links. For example "mylinks.com". If you do not already own a dedicated domain for that, you will need to purchase one using a domain registrar such as GoDaddy / Namecheap etc.

Configuring DNS For Your Chosen Domain

Once you have chosen a domain, you must edit the DNS records for it before you can start using it for referral links.

If you are using a subdomain

For example "go.yourstore.com"

You will need to add a CNAME type DNS record with:

• Host value equal to the subdomain you are using (For example "go", if your links will be using "go.yourstore.com")
• A value of "proxy.brandchamp.io"

If you are using a root domain

For example "mylinks.com". Note: there is only one period (".") in a root domain

You will need to add a CNAME type DNS record with:

• Host value equal to "@". This is a special value used to indicate the root of a domain.
• A value of "proxy.brandchamp.io"

How do I add DNS records?

Each hosting provider is a little different, so you will need to consult their documentation.

Here are some links for common hosting providers:

• Amazon Web Services
• Bluehost
• DreamHost
• GoDaddy
• Google Domain
• HostGator
• Namecheap

Add Domain To Your BrandChamp Account

Once you have chosen your domain and added the DNS CNAME record, go to the Settings area in your BrandChamp admin portal, and go to the Domains section:

Enter your chosen domain in the "Custom Referral Link Domain" field and click Add. If your DNS record has been set up correctly, and the change has had enough time to update everywhere, you will see a "valid" label beside the DNS Status:

If there are any errors validating your domain, they will be displayed below. Feel free to reach out to support@brandchamp.io if you have any trouble.