Dead Links
Dead links: what they mean and how to handle them
A dead link is a spreadsheet entry whose destination no longer resolves — the item sold out, the listing moved, or the source reorganized. Dead links are a normal part of a fast-moving tracker, but misreading one can waste time or, worse, lead you to an unexpected destination.
This guide explains why they happen, how to check listing fields by hand, and what the recovery path looks like when a link goes dead.
On this page
Why dead links happen
- The item sold out and the listing was removed.
- The marketplace moved or renamed the listing to a new URL.
- The curator has not yet updated the entry to the new link.
- The original source is temporarily down or under maintenance.
How to check listing fields by hand
When a link fails, do not give up on the entry immediately. Search the current catalog by image, style or Item ID and compare the result's category, price range and available images. A strong match suggests the item still exists but at a new URL.
If you find a match, treat the new URL as unchecked until you confirm the item, price, and QC align with what the entry describes.
How to recover
First, check for a mirror link or a newer entry in the same category. If none exists, use the manual search method above. If you find a match, review every listing field before treating it as a substitute for the original entry.
When to move on
If a dead link has no mirror and no clear match after manual search, it is usually faster to move to the next entry than to keep chasing it. A fast-moving spreadsheet may have other relevant options, and spending too long on a single dead entry may not be worth the time.
Continue with the Joyagoo guides
Continue with the product catalog or a practical guide for search, product details, buying, shipping and tracking.
Frequently asked questions
Not necessarily. A listing may have sold out, moved or become temporarily unavailable, but the destination should still be checked before using any replacement.