How do I get my business on Google Maps?
By Ash, Founder, HosteazePublished 2 min read
The short answer
Search Google Maps for your business name and town first. If a listing exists, open it and choose Claim this business. If it doesn't, go to business.google.com/add and create a Business Profile. Either way you then verify that you run the business, after which your listing, hours and reviews can appear on Maps. It's free.
Being on Google Maps means having a Google Business Profile. They're the same thing: the profile is what appears when someone taps your pin. Plenty of businesses are already on Maps without knowing it, because Google creates listings from public information and customer suggestions. So the first job is to check.
Is my business already on Google Maps?
- Open Google Maps on a computer or phone.
- Search for your business name and town, such as "Kestrel Joinery Hexham".
- Look at the result. If it shows Claim this business, nobody has verified it yet. If it doesn't, either it's already managed by someone, possibly you, or it doesn't exist.
Old listings are common after a change of name or owner. Claim the existing one rather than adding a second, because duplicates confuse customers and can cause problems with how both show on Maps.
How do I claim or add my business?
| Situation | What to do |
|---|---|
| Listing exists, unclaimed | Select Claim this business, then Manage now, and verify |
| Listing exists, someone else manages it | Request ownership. The owner has 3 days to respond |
| No listing at all | Go to business.google.com/add and click Add your business to Google |
| You run it from home and travel to customers | Add it as a service-area business, with your address hidden |
To add a new one:
- Go to business.google.com/add and sign in with the Google Account you want to manage it from.
- Click Add your business to Google and enter your name exactly as it appears on your signage.
- Choose your category, then your address or service areas, phone number and website.
- Pick a verification method and follow the on-screen steps.
The full walkthrough, including every verification option, is in how to set up a Google Business Profile.
How do I make sure the pin is in the right place?
When you add an address, Google may ask you to position a marker on the map. Put it on your actual entrance, not the middle of a business park or the back of the building. If customers keep ringing to say they're lost, this is the first thing to check. If your address has no street number, Google lets you pin the location directly instead.
What about Apple Maps and other map apps?
iPhone users often search in Apple Maps, which uses its own data. Claim your place through Apple Business Connect, and do the same on Bing Places. Use exactly the same name, address and phone number you used on Google, which keeps your NAP consistent.
Getting on the map is step one. Showing up for searches like "joiner near me" is the ongoing part, and our local SEO checklist covers it. If you've done all this and still can't see yourself, read why a Google Business Profile isn't showing up.
Step by step
1.Search for your business
Open Google Maps and search for your business name and town to see if a listing already exists.
2.Claim or add it
If it exists, select Claim this business, then Manage now. If not, go to business.google.com/add and click Add your business to Google.
3.Verify
Choose one of the verification methods Google offers and follow the steps.
4.Check the pin
Once verified, make sure the map marker sits on your actual entrance and move it if not.
Frequently asked questions
Does it cost anything to be on Google Maps?
No. Google says you can add or claim your business at no charge. Be wary of cold callers who say they'll "get you on Google Maps" for a fee.
Someone else has already claimed my business. What now?
Request ownership from the profile. The current owner gets an email and has three days to respond. If they don't, you may be able to claim it yourself through the link in your confirmation email.
Can I get on Google Maps without a shop?
Yes, if you travel to customers. Set up a service-area profile and your address stays hidden. Virtual offices and PO boxes aren't eligible.
