Can You Migrate From WordPress To Systeme.io?

Are you considering moving your website, funnels, or membership content from WordPress to Systeme.io and want to know what that process will look like?

Can You Migrate From WordPress To Systeme.io?

You can migrate from WordPress to Systeme.io, but the process is not a single-click export/import. Systeme.io is an all-in-one marketing platform with page and funnel builders, membership features, email marketing, and e-commerce functionality. WordPress is a highly flexible CMS with an ecosystem of themes and plugins. Because they serve different architectures and feature sets, you will need to plan the migration, export and transform content, recreate functional elements (funnels, checkout, membership areas), migrate subscribers, set up DNS and email authentication, and manage SEO and redirects.

Below you will find a structured, detailed guide that explains what you must migrate, how to do it step by step, what to expect technically, and a checklist to manage risk and timeline.

Quick high-level comparison

You should understand the key differences before starting so you can set realistic expectations.

Area	WordPress	Systeme.io
Primary use	Flexible CMS, blogs, complex sites, e-commerce via plugins	Funnels, courses, email marketing, membership, sales pages
Hosting	Self-hosted or managed hosting	Hosted SaaS platform
Page builder	Many (Gutenberg, Elementor, Divi, etc.)	Built-in drag-and-drop funnel/page builder
Plugins / integrations	Thousands of plugins for extended functionality	Built-in features plus direct integrations and Zapier/API
Blog functionality	Full-featured blog with themes and plugins	Blog feature exists but is more limited
Data export/import	WordPress export (XML), plugin-driven CSV exports	Limited direct import for content; supports CSV import for contacts
Control and customization	Very high	Good for funnels but less granular server-level access

What moves easily and what requires manual work

You will be able to move some items more easily than others. Knowing this will help you allocate time and resources.

• Relatively easy to migrate:
  • Subscriber/contact lists (via CSV export/import)
  • Static text content (copy/paste)
  • Product data (CSV from WooCommerce can be adapted)
  • Downloadable files (manual upload)
• Requires manual or semi-automated work:
  • Full page templates and theme styling (recreate in Systeme.io builder)
  • Complex plugins (membership logic, advanced custom fields)
  • Shortcodes and plugin-generated content
  • SEO-specific metadata and custom permalink structures
• Often not feasible to port directly:
  • Plugin-specific functionality (e.g., complex forms, advanced caching)
  • Custom PHP code or server-side logic

Pre-migration planning: what you must prepare

You should plan before touching production. This reduces downtime and prevents data loss.

• Inventory your current site: pages, posts, funnels, membership content, products, forms, email lists, plugins, analytics tags.
• Export backups: full WordPress backup (files + database). Keep multiple copies.
• Identify which pages are high-traffic/SEO-critical so you can preserve URLs or set redirects.
• Choose a migration strategy and timeline (phased vs. big-bang).
• Prepare a staging/testing subdomain in Systeme.io or use a subdomain on your domain for testing.

How to inventory your WordPress site

You should create a simple, actionable inventory so you know what to migrate and how long it will take.

• Pages: list URLs and purpose (sales, about, contact, landing).
• Posts: number, categories, tags, top-performing posts.
• Media: list major media assets and their sizes.
• Products: if WooCommerce, export product CSV.
• Membership/Courses: list modules, lessons, access levels.
• Forms, popups, automations: record what triggers what.
• Email lists and automation sequences: note tags, segments, and templates.
• Plugins providing essential features: list and indicate whether equivalent exists in Systeme.io.

A spreadsheet with columns for Item Type, URL/Name, Migration Approach, Priority, Status is helpful.

Step-by-step migration strategy

You should break migration into manageable stages: backup, subscribers, pages/funnels, products/memberships, email deliverability, testing, go-live, and post-migration optimizations.

1) Backup and safety measures

You must take full backups before any change.

• Export full site using your hosting control panel or plugins (UpdraftPlus, All-in-One WP Migration).
• Export the database separately.
• Export media library (manually or via plugin).
• Export WooCommerce products, customer data, and orders (if applicable).

2) Export and import subscribers and contacts

You will want to preserve your audience and keep email deliverability intact.

• From WordPress or your email plugin (MailPoet, Mailchimp plugin, etc.), export contacts to CSV with columns: email, first name, last name, tags, subscription status, opt-in timestamp.
• In Systeme.io, go to Contacts and import the CSV. Map fields during import and preserve opt-in state where possible.
• Respect GDPR/permission rules—ensure you have consent to email people after migration. If required, run a re-confirmation campaign.

3) Recreate pages and funnels

You should not expect an automated page import; rebuild pages in Systeme.io.

• Identify priority pages (home, main landing pages, sales pages).
• Use the Systeme.io page and funnel builder to recreate layout and content. Copy/paste content or HTML as needed.
• Re-upload images and files to Systeme.io assets and update links.
• For blog posts, you can copy content into Systeme.io blog posts manually or export content via XML and script conversion—this is typically manual work for formatting and images.
• If you have many posts, prioritize top performers for migration and leave long-tail content for later.

4) Migrate membership and course content

You must recreate courses and membership areas using Systeme.io’s membership feature.

• Export course outlines and lesson files from WordPress/plugins (e.g., LearnDash, LifterLMS).
• Create membership levels in Systeme.io and upload lessons, videos, PDFs, and quizzes.
• Recreate drip schedules and access rules manually.
• Recreate user accounts where needed—export user list from WordPress and import as contacts; then set access in Systeme.io or send password reset/invite emails.

5) Migrate products and checkout

You should transfer products and payment setup carefully to avoid disrupting sales.

• Export products from WooCommerce (CSV). Map titles, SKUs, price, and descriptions.
• Create products in Systeme.io manually (Systeme.io typically doesn’t support bulk import for products—check current capabilities).
• Set up payment processors in Systeme.io (Stripe, PayPal). Ensure API keys are correct and test transactions in live/sandbox mode.
• Recreate order bumps, upsells, and down-sells in Systeme.io funnels.

6) Forms and automations

You should ensure leads still flow into the right funnels and sequences.

• Recreate opt-in forms in Systeme.io and connect them to the appropriate email sequences and tags.
• Rebuild automations (if/then sequences) in Systeme.io automation rules.
• Test that a form submission triggers the correct email and funnel behavior.

7) Media migration (images, audio, video)

You should host media within Systeme.io or use a CDN/external host.

• Download media from WordPress media library and re-upload into Systeme.io assets.
• For large video files, consider YouTube, Vimeo, or a dedicated video host and embed in Systeme.io to preserve bandwidth and performance.
• Update all image and media links in your recreated pages.

8) DNS, domain, and SSL

You must configure your domain and SSL precisely for a smooth switch.

• Decide whether you will point your root domain to Systeme.io (recommended for a full site move) or use a subdomain for funnels (e.g., funnels.yourdomain.com).
• In your domain registrar, update A record or CNAME as instructed by Systeme.io. Systeme.io typically requires adding a CNAME for custom domains and then enabling SSL.
• After DNS changes, enable SSL in Systeme.io (Let’s Encrypt is commonly used). Expect propagation times up to 48 hours.
• Keep WordPress hosting active until you confirm the new site works and redirects are in place.

9) SEO and redirects

You should preserve SEO value by mapping URLs and using 301 redirects.

• Export your current sitemap and list of important URLs.
• Create a redirect map from old WordPress URLs to corresponding Systeme.io pages.
• If you keep the same domain but change hosting, set up 301 redirects at the WordPress level (via .htaccess or redirect plugins) before switching DNS, or use a proxy redirect service if WordPress hosting is removed.
• Update canonical tags in Systeme.io pages if needed.
• Submit your new sitemap to Google Search Console and Bing Webmaster Tools. Monitor crawl errors and fix broken links.

10) Analytics and tracking

You should maintain continuity in analytics and ad tracking.

• Add Google Analytics / GA4 tracking code and Google Tag Manager container to Systeme.io settings.
• Add Meta Pixel and other ad pixels to Systeme.io as required.
• Verify tracking works and that conversions map to your funnels.

11) Email deliverability and authentication

You must authenticate your sending domain for better inboxing.

• Configure SPF, DKIM, and DMARC records in your domain DNS per Systeme.io’s instructions or per your SMTP provider.
• If you use Systeme.io email, follow their domain verification steps.
• If you use a third-party SMTP (e.g., Mailgun, SendGrid), add appropriate DNS records and credentials in Systeme.io.

12) Testing and QA

You must test everything before decommissioning WordPress.

• Test form submissions, automation workflows, purchase flows, membership access, and downloads.
• Test across browsers and mobile devices.
• Check page load speed and optimize large images.
• Validate SEO metadata (title, meta description) on priority pages.

13) Go-live and post-migration monitoring

You should schedule the go-live when traffic is manageable and monitor actively.

• Plan the DNS switch for off-peak hours.
• Monitor Google Search Console for crawl errors and traffic changes.
• Keep an eye on email bounce rates and deliverability.
• Maintain WordPress backups and hosting for a rollback window (e.g., 7–14 days) until you confirm stability.

Practical migration tasks and commands (examples)

You should use these steps as actionable templates.

• Export posts and pages from WordPress:
  • WP Admin → Tools → Export → All content → Download export file (XML)
• Export users:
  • Use plugin like Export Users to CSV to export user emails and metadata.
• Export WooCommerce products:
  • WooCommerce → Products → Export → CSV
• Import contacts into Systeme.io:
  • Contacts → Import → Upload CSV → Map fields → Finish import
• Recreate page:
  • Funnels → Create funnel → Add step → Edit page → Use drag-and-drop editor → Save
• Add custom domain:
  • Settings → Custom domain → Follow DNS instructions → Verify → Enable SSL

Common migration roadblocks and how you should address them

You should anticipate several typical issues and know how to resolve them.

• Broken links and images: Re-upload images and update links. Use search-and-replace while rebuilding content.
• Loss of SEO ranking: Keep most important URLs or implement 301 redirects accurately. Monitor search console and traffic.
• Email permission gaps: Confirm you have permission for contacts. Segment imported contacts and send a re-engagement or opt-in confirmation if needed.
• Feature parity gaps: If a plugin feature doesn’t exist in Systeme.io, look for alternative workflows or third-party services (Zapier, Make, API) or hire a developer for custom work.
• Large sites: Consider migrating in phases—start with funnels and primary sales pages, then blog posts and long-form content over weeks.

Migration checklist (table)

You should use this checklist to track progress through the migration.

Stage	Task	Done
Backup	Full WP backup (files + DB)
Inventory	List pages, posts, products, membership items
Contacts	Export contacts CSV with tags and opt-in timestamps
Products	Export product CSV from WooCommerce
Media	Export media library or download key assets
Pages	Recreate top priority pages in Systeme.io
Funnels	Recreate funnel flows and tests
Membership	Create membership areas and upload lessons
Forms/Automations	Recreate forms and automation rules
Domain	Add custom domain in Systeme.io and update DNS
SSL	Enable SSL for custom domain
Redirects	Implement 301 redirects for old URLs
Analytics	Add GA/Pixel/Tag manager
Email Auth	Add SPF/DKIM/DMARC records
QA	Functionality testing and live tests
Go-live	DNS switch and post-launch monitoring

Tips to make migration smoother

You should follow best practices to reduce friction and risk.

• Prioritize and migrate what brings revenue first (sales pages, checkout, membership access).
• Use a subdomain for testing so you do not disrupt live traffic.
• Keep WordPress hosting for a short rollback period.
• Document each step and keep screenshots of settings (API keys, DNS entries).
• Use CSVs and structured exports to reduce manual copy-paste.
• If migration is large or complex, hire a specialist or agency that has done Systeme.io migrations before.

When to consider hybrid approaches

You should consider hybrid hosting when you want to keep some WordPress features.

• Keep blog on WordPress and use Systeme.io for funnels and sales pages. This allows you to retain SEO control and plugin functionality while using Systeme.io for funnels and email.
• Use subdomains (blog.yourdomain.com on WordPress, funnels.yourdomain.com on Systeme.io) and coordinate analytics and cross-platform links.
• If you rely heavily on specific WordPress plugins, stay hybrid until equivalents are built or custom solutions are developed.

Costs and resource considerations

You should evaluate both monetary and non-monetary costs.

• Time: manual recreation of pages and membership content can take many hours depending on site complexity.
• Subscription differences: Systeme.io subscription plans vary by features (limits on contacts, emails, funnels). Confirm the plan fits your needs.
• Third-party services: you may need Zapier, a migration agency, or a dedicated SMTP provider for deliverability.
• Opportunity cost: downtime, temporary drop in organic traffic, or loss of features may have revenue impact. Plan rollbacks and monitoring.

Security and compliance considerations you should address

You must protect data privacy and ensure compliance with regulations.

• Ensure GDPR or other opt-in records are preserved for email lists.
• Secure any exported CSV files with personal data during transfer.
• Update privacy policy and terms to reflect the new platform if necessary.
• Verify Systeme.io’s data storage location and security assurances for your compliance needs.

Testing matrix you should follow

You should test these items and mark them as pass/fail during QA.

• Form submissions create contacts and tags correctly.
• Purchase process including payment processors completes and generates orders.
• Membership logins grant appropriate access levels and content ordering.
• Email sequences execute on time and with correct content.
• Analytics events fire correctly for conversions.
• Redirects lead to correct pages and return 301 status.
• Images and media load without broken links.

Example timeline for a medium-sized site (approximate)

You should use this as a baseline; adjust based on site complexity.

• Week 1: Inventory, backups, export data, choose plan and team.
• Week 2: Import contacts, recreate top sales pages and funnels, set up payment integrations.
• Week 3: Migrate membership content, transfer products, and set up automations.
• Week 4: Finalize domain/DNS, implement redirects, run QA, and go-live.
• Week 5–6: Monitor, fix issues, migrate lower-priority blog posts.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

You should review these common concerns.

Q: Will I lose SEO if I migrate? A: You can avoid significant losses by preserving important URLs or implementing 301 redirects, preserving metadata, and submitting updated sitemaps. Expect some short-term fluctuations but mitigate with careful redirects, monitoring, and content parity.

Q: Can I keep my theme from WordPress? A: Not directly. You will need to recreate the visual styling using Systeme.io’s builder. You can approximate the design by copying colors, fonts, and layout.

Q: Does Systeme.io import WordPress XML automatically? A: Systeme.io does not natively import WordPress XML content. You will need to manually copy content, import posts selectively, or use custom scripts to convert XML to formatted HTML for import.

Q: How long will it take? A: It depends on site size. Small sites can take a few days; medium sites several weeks; complex sites with many products and memberships can take a month or more.

Q: Should you migrate everything at once? A: Not usually. A phased approach reduces risk. Prioritize revenue-generating funnels and pages first.

Final recommendations

You should treat migration as a project with clear milestones, backups, and a rollback plan. Systeme.io can handle most marketing, funnel, email, and membership needs well, but you must rebuild pages, forms, and logic manually. Focus first on maintaining revenue flows (sales and membership access), preserving audience data, and ensuring email deliverability. Use redirects and analytics to protect SEO and validate traffic. If your WordPress site relies heavily on custom plugins or complex server-side code, evaluate hybrid strategies or retain WordPress for those components.

If you want, I can create a customized migration checklist based on a short inventory of your current WordPress features (number of pages, blog posts, products, membership users, email list size), estimate time and costs, and recommend which parts to migrate first. Which parts of your site are most critical to keep operational during the move?