Shade Your Service Area: Creating a Custom Map for Your Website

Do you need a map on your website that showcases your service area? Maybe you’re a landscaper, a delivery company, or a local plumber with a specific range. A shaded map can be a visually appealing way to highlight the areas you cover. Here’s how you can create and add this type of map to your website:

Building Your Shaded Map:

There are two main approaches to create a map with a shaded service area:

1. Google My Maps:

This is a user-friendly and free option offered by Google. Here’s what you do:

• Head to Google My Maps: Visit https://www.google.com/mymaps.
• Sign In: Use your existing Google account to log in.
• Create a New Map: Click the “Create A New Map” button and give it a descriptive title.
• Define Your Area: There are two ways to highlight your service area:
  • Draw Freehand: Use the drawing tools to shade the region you cover directly on the map.
  • Import Zip Code Boundaries (.KML):
    1. Find a website offering free downloadable zip code boundary files (.KML format).
    2. Download the .KML file for your target zip codes.
    3. In Google My Maps, click “Import” from the menu and select the downloaded .KML file. This will overlay the zip code boundaries onto your map.
• Customize the Map: Google My Maps allows you to customize the map further.
  • You can change the base map style, add labels, and even include information icons for key locations within your service area.
• Share and Embed: Once finalized, click “Share” and choose “Embed on my site.” Google My Maps will provide you with an HTML code snippet.

2. Third-Party Mapping Services:

For more advanced features or a specific design aesthetic, you can explore paid solutions like Leaflet, Mapbox, or Carto. These services offer extensive customization options but require some coding knowledge.

Adding the Map to Your Website:

Once you have your shaded map from Google My Maps or another service, it’s time to embed it on your website:

• Copy the Embed Code: From Google My Maps, copy the provided HTML code snippet mentioned earlier.
• Paste it into your Website: Locate the section on your website where you want to display the map. Paste the copied code snippet into the HTML editor of your website builder or CMS platform. If you’re using UltimateWB, you can do this directly on the Pages Add/Edit Page with the Page Editor Box, or use the built-in Ad(d)s app made for integrating third party tools.
• Save and Publish: Save the changes to your website and publish it. The shaded map should now be live on your site!

Additional Tips:

• Clarity is Key: Ensure the shaded area is easily recognizable and visually distinct from the rest of the map.
• Mobile-Friendly Design: Make sure your map is responsive and looks good on all devices, especially mobile phones.
• Consider a Call to Action: Include a clear call to action near the map, encouraging visitors to contact you for service within your highlighted area.

By following these steps, you can create a custom map with a shaded service area and enhance your website’s visual appeal while clearly communicating your coverage zone to potential customers.

Are you ready to design & build your own website? Learn more about UltimateWB! We also offer web design packages if you would like your website designed and built for you.

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