Create CNAME Entry for Branded Returns Page in HostGator

Plans: Premium, Enterprise Platforms: All platforms

Overview

HostGator provides shared, reseller, virtual private servers, and dedicated web hosting to businesses.

Enabling SSL is mandatory due to the new Cloudflare policy. So, if you are already using a custom domain, make sure the SSL is activated at your end as well for uninterrupted and delightful experience. Connect with our support team for the same.

Add host value

Let us suppose you wish to set the custom returns page URL as https://returns.brandname.com. So, the value of the host filed will be returns.

Create CNAME entry

Go to HostGator > CPanel link > Domains > Zone editor > Select a domain and click the CName Record link beside the domain
Consider www.domains.com as your website and enter details as follows

Host: Based on the above example, returns

Points to: domains.aftership.com

Domains is a placeholder for your brand's name (i.e., antiquevase),

For the existing users, the default returns page URL will still be formatted as https://{org.short_name}returnscenter.com. Though they will receive a new domain https://{org.short_name}.aftership.com/returns with the launch of the new version of the AfterShip returns page URL.

Learn more about setting up a custom domain for branded returns page.

For the new users, the default returns page will be updated to https://{org.short_name}.aftership.com/returns automatically when they first connect and set up their store with AfterShip Returns.

TTL: Leave it unchanged

Custom domain: https://returns.yourdomain.com

Add record

It can take up to 48 hours to modify the CNAME settings.

Need help?

For any further questions or help, please contact our chat support team or reach out to us at support+returns@aftership.com.

Updated on: 07/04/2026