Alex Ruben
How To Add a New Location on Google Maps
Ever stumble across an address or spot that’s just not on Google Maps? Yeah, sometimes the map’s outdated or missing certain places, especially if it’s a new business or a hidden gem. Making sure these spots get added isn’t just about personal convenience; it helps out others trying to find that spot too. Plus, Google’s fairly strict about how you add places, so knowing the ins and outs can save some frustration. Expect to drop a pin, fill out some details, maybe even add pics — basically, beefing up the map with stuff you know.
It’s not totally foolproof, and on some devices, the app can be glitchy, or Google might reject your submission for minor reasons. But with a little patience, you can get that location on the map and help everyone out. Here’s how it usually goes down.
How to Add a New Location in Google Maps
Navigate to the area where the spot should be
Fire up Google Maps on your phone or PC. Make sure you’re running the latest version (check your app store or update via the Play Store / App Store). Zoom in on the part of town or area where the place is supposed to be. The more precise the better, especially if it’s a small alley or a new coffee shop that’s just opened.
- Tip: On PC, you can just go to maps.google.com. On mobile, open the app, then pinch and zoom around.
Drop a pin at the right spot
Long press on the map at the specific location you want to add. This will drop a pin marking that spot. Sometimes, the pin auto-places slightly off, so if it looks weird, tap and hold again or drag it to get it just right. This is kind of weird, but on some phones, drops don’t stick the first time—sometimes you need a retry.
- On desktop, right-click on the spot and select Add a missing place. On mobile, long press on the map.
Access the add place menu and start inputting details
Tap your profile icon or menu (three dots, usually) and select Add a missing place or Add place. This opens the form where Google wants info about the spot.
Fill in the location info
- Name: Think of a clear, straightforward name. Maybe include some info if needed, e.g., “Joe’s Coffee (New Location)”.
- Category: Choose what it is — restaurant, library, park, whatever matches best. This helps folks searching for that type of place.
- Address: Fill in the full address. Be as precise as possible. If the pin is slightly off, tap to adjust or drag it on the map.
Sometimes the auto-fill from Google suggests something, but if it’s wrong, just overwrite it. That’s pretty common when the place isn’t well-known yet.
Add optional info and photos
This part is optional but highly recommended. Add opening hours, contact number, or upload a few clear photos to make the place stand out. It boosts authenticity and chances Google will approve it faster. Sometimes, just adding a couple of extra pics can make or break your submission, especially if Google’s review team is on-the-fence.
Submit & wait for review
Once everything’s filled out, tap Submit. It can take a few days—or sometimes longer—before it shows up on the map. Don’t get discouraged if it’s not immediate. Just remember Google’s gotta verify a lot of info, and sometimes, they’ll reject it if it isn’t detailed enough or if something’s off.
Adding your business if it’s yours
If you’re the business owner, the process is similar—just go to your profile icon and select Add Your Business. Fill out all the details, then Google will usually do a quick verification (might involve phone calls or postcards). After that, it’s live and ready for customers.
Pro tip: keep details accurate and consistent (especially address and phone). Google tends to flag suspicious entries.
Extra tips & troubleshooting common issues
- Make sure your app is updated. Old versions tend to glitch or lack features.
- Double-check spelling and details. It’s tempting to rush, but incomplete or incorrect info can get rejected.
- If your submission gets rejected, examine the rejection reason, update accordingly, and try again. Usually, it’s about missing info or poor quality photos.
- In some cases, Google may delay approval if your location looks unofficial or suspicious. Providing additional photos or verification helps.
- On some machines, the app might crash or refuse to accept your drops; try reinstalling or switching to the web version if on PC.
Wrap-up
Adding places to Google Maps isn’t rocket science but does require patience. This process can seem a bit clunky sometimes, and Google’s review process is especially mysterious. Still, if the spot is important enough, it’s worth the effort to get it added. Usually, a few tweaks and some persistence will get that location listed for everyone to find.
Summary
- Make sure your app is updated before starting.
- Zoom in closely on the area to place the pin properly.
- Fill out accurate, detailed info to improve approval chances.
- Photos help, so upload clear shots if possible.
- Submission might take days—be patient, and don’t rush.
Fingers crossed this helps
Adding a new place isn’t perfect, and sometimes Google’s review takes longer than it should, but hey, it’s better than staying invisible. Just keep tweaking if needed, and eventually, your favorite hidden spot will be there for everyone else to find.