Local Pack
The box of 3 local businesses that Google shows at the top of search results with a map.
The Tradie Take
The Local Pack is the front row of the trade lineup at the hardware store. When a customer walks in needing a plumber, the first 3 business cards they see are the Local Pack. Everyone else is in the stack behind. You do not want to be in the stack - you want to be on the front table with the map.
Definition
The Local Pack (or map pack) is the prominent box Google displays at the top of search results when someone searches for a local service - showing 3 businesses with a map, their ratings, phone numbers, and addresses. For tradies, appearing in the Local Pack is often more valuable than ranking #1 in the regular search results. The Local Pack is highly visible, gets the most clicks, and drives phone calls directly.
How It Works
- 1 When someone searches for a local service, Google shows 3 businesses plus a map
- 2 These 3 results sit above all other search results - premium visibility
- 3 Local Pack ranking is based on proximity, Google Business Profile quality, and reviews
- 4 Clicking a Local Pack result often reveals the phone number immediately - driving direct calls
Tips for Tradies
- Optimise your Google Business Profile - it is the only way to get into the Local Pack
- Reviews are a major Local Pack ranking factor - more positive reviews = better placement
- Local Pack results get the majority of clicks for local searches