Redirecting deleted posts 301 vs 302

[OVJ]

There is a category on WP where job ads are posted. when a post got deleted I would like to pass 404 error page and redirect all those deleted posts to specific category.

I found WP plugin Auto Redirect 404 in 301 for Trashed Posts which does redirect deleted post to specific URL. But posts which are in the trash (not permanently deleted) will get 302 redirects. Those deleted permanently will get 301 redirects.

Should I try editing this plugin or find another why? Maybe there is similar way with Redirection plugin?

 

[redfishking]

It's probably easier to only use 301 redirects, especially if the majority of deleted posts are not going to be restored and are deleted permanently in a few months.

[OVJ]

Actually those posts get permanently deleted after a while (1-5 months). But as I said before, some of them get deleted and then they need to be reposted again before they will get permanently deleted.

[CleverPhD]

Then a 302 would be more appropriate as it is a temporary redirect.   It sounds like you need to work on some of your publishing operations/procedures.   Ideally, once you publish a post, it stays up etc.  You need to figure out how you can improve the process so that you minimize getting into the situation to start with.

If you need to, I would delay the posting to start with if that would ensure that once it posts, it stays up on the site etc.

Good luck.

[OVJ]

I don't own that site but the owner of the site needs post to be kept in the trash because those posts often have to be restored.

[CleverPhD]

You need the 301 redirects.  302 redirects give me ulcers.  Is there any reason you are keeping things in the trash?  If you really need to save something for later, putting it in the trash is probably not your best option.  If you need to permanently delete them - then go ahead.  If you need the trash option for storage, then you probably need another plugin.