Use cases

Create a store locator map for your website

Direct answer

What does this map workflow help you build?

A store locator is a searchable map of your business locations. Import addresses from CSV or Excel, add customer-facing details in the editor, then publish a link or embed the locator on an eligible plan.

Start with the Store Locator template See pricing

No credit card No code Export anytime

Synthetic example locations used to illustrate this map type; not customer data.

No code

Visual map building

CSV + Sheets

Spreadsheet workflows

Website-ready

Share links and embeds

Overview

What a store locator should answer

A store locator is an official, searchable directory of your own stores, branches, service centers, or partners. Its first job is to help a visitor choose a location and act without opening another search result.

Which location is closest or relevant to me?

Is it open, accessible, and able to provide the service I need?

How do I call, visit the website, or open directions?

Key features

Build complete location records

For example, a three-branch retailer might give every record a public name, full address, phone number, opening hours, pickup amenities, one useful photo, and a directions CTA.

Import core rows from CSV, XLS, or XLSX, then review every geocoded result

Add opening hours, images, groups, and other rich fields in the editor because the CSV importer does not map every record field

Use customer-facing labels such as Store, Service center, Pickup, and Wheelchair accessible

How to set up

A practical build workflow

Start with a representative sample, fix ambiguous addresses, and only then complete the map. Setup time depends on record quality, styling, and review rather than a fixed launch promise.

Import or add locations and verify pins against the source addresses

Create a small group and tag system that matches customer questions

Configure search, list, popup, directions, and CTA behavior

Publish a share link or use a website embed on an eligible plan

Next steps

Test the customer journey, not just the pins

A technically correct map can still be difficult to use. Test the public map at its default zoom and on a narrow phone screen before linking it from your main navigation.

Search for a city, postcode, and store name

Apply each filter and confirm the list and map stay understandable

Open directions and contact links from iPhone and Android-sized screens

Check that marker clusters do not hide the location choices visitors need

Part 5

Keep official information current

Assign an owner for address, hours, phone, and status changes. MapsMaker presents the records you provide; it does not independently verify business details.

Review temporary closures and holiday hours before high-traffic periods

Use a connected Google Sheet on an eligible plan when repeated spreadsheet sync is the right workflow

Treat a fresh CSV import as new markers, not as an automatic update of matching locations

Frequently asked questions

How is a store locator different from a directory map?

A store locator represents an official set of locations for one organization or network. A directory can curate independent businesses, attractions, or community resources.

Can I import store locations from a spreadsheet?

Yes. The editor accepts CSV, XLS, and XLSX files. Excel imports read the first worksheet, and you should review the column mapping and geocoded positions before publishing.

Can visitors search and filter locations?

Yes. Search, the location list, groups, and tags can help visitors narrow the published map when they are configured in the editor.

Can I include hours, photos, ratings, and amenities?

MapsMaker records support rich business details. Some fields must be added or reviewed in the editor because the CSV importer does not map opening hours, images, groups, or social links.

Can I embed the locator on my website?

Interactive website embeds are available on paid plans. The Free plan uses a static share map with a searchable location list; check the pricing page for current limits.

Does importing another CSV update matching stores?

No. CSV imports create new marker records rather than upserting existing ones. Use a deliberate replace workflow or a connected Google Sheet on an eligible plan for repeat synchronization.

Is MapsMaker free to use?

MapsMaker has a Free plan with 1 map and 10 markers. The Free share link uses a static map with a searchable location list; interactive website embeds are included on paid plans. See the pricing page for current plan limits and prices.

How long does it take to set up?

Setup time depends on the number and cleanliness of your records, the fields you include, and how much styling or review the map needs. Start with a small sample, verify the locations and links, then publish when the result is accurate.

Build with MapsMaker

Create your map in minutes

Start with a template, import locations if you have a spreadsheet, and publish a link or embed.

Start with the Store Locator template See pricing