Working as a courier has its fair share of challenges. Technology can make things a little easier. When delivering orders, you’ve probably used Google Maps to navigate. With customization and features like augmented reality, it can optimize your delivery experience. Find out how to improve your courier efficiency by using Google Maps.
Tips to Make Google Maps Work for You
Time is critical when you’re out fulfilling orders. Whether it’s food, groceries, or parcels, quick deliveries make customers happy. Happy customers mean more tips. By saving time on deliveries, you can also fulfill more orders. And the more deliveries you make, the more you earn. It’s a win-win for everyone. Here are some tips to make Google Maps work for you.
Add Multiple Destinations on Google Maps
As a courier, you may take on more than one order at the same time. To make good time, you need to use the best possible route. You can add multiple destinations on Google Maps. To do this, start by getting directions from your starting point to one location. Then click on the three dots next to the starting point. A pop-up menu will show up with an “Add Stop” option. Tap on this to add another stop to your existing route. You can add up to 9 destinations with this technique. Drag to reorder the locations for more efficient routing. This will not just save gas but also time and money.
This is a great technique when you are stacking more than 4 orders with grocery delivery.
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Get Route Information
Google Maps optimizes directions for distance and time. Sometimes routes pass through construction zones or traffic-prone areas. Each route option on the map provides this information so you can decide the best one for you.
Use Voice Commands
With Google Assistant, you can get all the information you need with little or no manual interaction with the app. The Google Maps App on Android has “OK Google” voice commands. You can use it to find anything from nearby gas stations to the traffic conditions on your route. On iOS, tap on the microphone icon next to the directions at the top of the screen. You’ll be able to use voice commands this way. It ensures your eyes are on the road, where they should be, and not on your phone.
Use Maps Offline
You might use Google Maps to find a restaurant or customer in unfamiliar territory. Losing network coverage in such situations can put a spanner in the works. But if you thought you could only use Google Maps when you’re online, think again. For offline access, save a copy of the map in advance when you have a good internet connection. To do this, tap on the area of interest. You will see a menu at the bottom with the “Directions,” “Save,” and “Share” options. Swipe left on it to see the “Download” option. On saving the map, you can search for locations as usual and get directions even if you’re offline. Using offline maps can also reduce data and battery usage.
Choose Location on Map
To save typing time and effort, tap on the text box which holds the start or endpoint address and select the “Choose on map” option. Drop the location pin in the area where you’re headed. This displays all the nearby places at the bottom of the screen. Swipe up to see the entire list and select the location you want.
Save Your Parking Location on Google Maps
Google Maps has a feature to mark your parking spot so you can find your vehicle when you’re done. To use this on Android, tap on your location (indicated by a blue dot) when you park. Choose the option to “Save your parking.” This will mark your parking spot on the map. You can add notes and details like the time left on the parking meter, among other things. You can, then, get directions to this spot when you’re done picking up or dropping off your order. On iOS, tapping the blue dot will display a pop-up menu with the “Set as parking location” option.
Get a Heads-up on the Parking Situation
When navigating Google Maps, look for the P symbol next to the ETA at the bottom. This symbol provides information about the parking situation at the destination. Based on parking difficulty, there are three designations (limited, medium, and easy). Using this information, you can also decide where and how long to park your vehicle.
Use Google Maps Street View
Before you arrive, Street View gives you an idea of what a location looks like. This can help you find your destination faster. For Street View mode, select a point on the map and tap on the location details at the bottom of the screen. Scroll down and tap on the photo thumbnail with the Street View Icon. Street View, however, is not available for all locations.
Get AR Walking Directions
Google Maps Street View adds walking directions to augmented reality (AR). The augmented reality feature casts a beam of light on the map so you can see which way you’re going. If Street View supports AR, a blue location dot casts the beam, so you know which direction to go.
Change Vehicle Appearance
Google Maps allows you to change how your vehicle appears on the map. You can choose between a sedan, an SUV, and a pickup truck. Using these icons can make it easier to spot your position.
Conclusion
These are some Google Maps features that can optimize the time you spend as a courier. The tips in this guide may seem daunting at first. But a little practice can help. Using these features in your everyday life is the perfect way to learn how to use them. Once you do, you should see a significant improvement in the time and effort you spend on deliveries.
