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How to Optimize Your Google Business Profile and Show Up in the Top 3 Map Pack
Most movers set up their Google Business Profile (GBP) once, then forget it exists.
Big mistake.
If you want your moving company to show up where it matters — in the Top 3 Google Map results — your GBP needs to be treated like a sales tool, not a checkbox.
Why does this matter?
Because over 80% of people searching for movers on their phones are clicking one of those top 3 listings in the map pack. If you’re not there, you’re invisible — and your competitors are getting those leads.
In this article, we’ll walk you through how to properly optimize your Google Business Profile so you can increase visibility, earn trust, and book more jobs — without spending a dime on ads.
Why Google Maps Rankings Matter for Movers
Local map results are prime real estate. And they appear above regular SEO listings.
Here’s why showing up in the local 3-pack should be a top priority:
- Over 80% of local service searches trigger the map pack
- Users trust Google’s top 3 — it signals legitimacy
- These listings dominate mobile — where most people search for movers
- Best of all: it’s free traffic (if you rank)
If your business isn’t showing up there, you’re missing out on the easiest leads you can get.
Set It Up Like a Pro (Most Movers Miss These)
Here’s how to optimize your Google Business Profile the right way — and fix the most common mistakes we see from moving companies:
✅ Use the Correct Business Name
Stick to your real legal name — don’t add “Movers in Dallas” or stuff it with keywords. Google penalizes fake or misleading names.
✅ Select All Relevant Categories
Start with “Mover” as your primary, but add related ones:
- Piano Moving Service
- Packing Service
- Moving and Storage Service
- Long Distance Moving
Each category expands your visibility.
✅ Add Every Service Area You Cover
Go into your profile settings and manually add every zip code, suburb, or city you serve. This improves visibility in local searches outside your main office address.
✅ Set Realistic Business Hours
Set hours that reflect when you’re able to respond — even if it’s just phone support. Google values fast response times.
✅ Upload 20–30 Real Photos
Photos aren’t optional. Add:
- Your trucks
- Moving crews on real jobs
- Your team at the office
- Branded gear, equipment, storage, etc.
This builds trust — and Google rewards it with more visibility.
No Reviews, No Rankings
If you’re not actively collecting Google reviews, your profile won’t rank — no matter how good your service is.
Why Reviews Matter:
- They’re the #1 ranking factor for map listings
- People scan stars before reading your name
- High volume + consistent growth = more visibility
Build It Into Your Process:
After every job, have your crew say:
“We really appreciate your business — you’ll get a quick text with a review link. It helps us grow and serve more great customers like you.”
Then send a follow-up text that says:
“Thanks again for choosing [Company Name]! If you were happy with your move, would you mind leaving a quick Google review? It helps us a ton.”
👉 [Insert review link]
Pro Tip:
Respond to every review — good or bad. Google tracks engagement, and it shows you care.
Don’t Just Set It and Forget It
Google favors active business profiles.
Here’s how to stay top of mind in their algorithm:
- ✅ Post weekly updates — photos of jobs, special offers, or company news
- ✅ Use the Q&A feature — answer common customer questions in advance
- ✅ Update service info regularly — don’t let hours or services go stale
- ✅ Enable messaging — let users send you a message directly from the listing
Staying active tells Google: “We’re alive, we’re reliable, and we’re ready to help customers.”
GBP is the Foundation of Your LSA Strategy
Your Google Business Profile isn’t just for the map pack — it directly impacts your Local Services Ads (LSA) performance too.
- Reviews? Google pulls them from your GBP.
- Business hours? Pulled from GBP.
- Location and service info? GBP again.
If your LSA isn’t performing well, there’s a good chance your GBP is part of the problem.
Bottom line: If you want to dominate LSA and organic map rankings, your GBP needs to be dialed in.
Final Take: Most Movers Ignore This — That’s Your Opportunity
Your Google Business Profile is one of the most powerful (and most underused) lead gen tools in the moving industry.
It’s free. It’s visible. And it converts — when set up the right way.
Most of your competitors haven’t touched theirs in months.
That means you can win the map pack, earn more reviews, and book more jobs just by putting in the work.
Want a Free Google Business Profile Audit?
At Wagoner, we work exclusively with moving companies — and we’ll review your GBP for free.
We’ll tell you exactly where you’re missing out and what to fix to start ranking.