How to Use Buffer's URL Shortener
- George Apostolov
How to Use Buffer's URL Shortener: step-by-step guide
Log in to Buffer, select your desired social media account, and click "Settings."
Click on "General."
Go to "Link Shortening" and choose a default link shortener (e.g., buff.ly or Bit.ly).
Go to your social media channel and click on "+" to create a new post.
Paste a URL into the post composer—Buffer will automatically shorten it.
Click "Add to Queue" or schedule your post as needed.
Quick answer: To use the URL shortener in Buffer, log in and select Settings, click General, choose a default link shortener under Link Shortening, create a new post by clicking +, paste a URL into the composer to automatically shorten it, and add the post to your queue or schedule it.
About this Buffer tutorial
Configure link shortening and automatically shorten pasted URLs when creating scheduled social media posts in Buffer. This guide shows how to use Buffer's URL Shortener in 6 steps, starting with "Log in to Buffer, select your desired social media account, and click 'Settings'" and finishing with "Click 'Add to Queue' or schedule your post as needed". The interactive demo above is a click-through copy of the real Buffer interface, so you can rehearse each step before doing it in your own account.
Frequently asked questions
How many steps does it take to use Buffer's URL Shortener?
6 steps. Each one is listed in order above, and the demo highlights exactly where to click.
Can I try it without changing my own account?
Yes. Clicking through the demo doesn't touch your Buffer data or settings. Once you know the flow, repeat it in your own workspace.
This tutorial is filed under Buffer. Related guides: How to Use Canva Designs in Buffer Posts, How to Use Emojis in Buffer Posts and How to View Post Performance in Buffer. Last reviewed 05 Oct 2026.
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