July 3, 2025
How to Rank in the Google 3-Pack: A Local SEO Checklist
Want to rank in the Google 3-Pack? Use this local SEO checklist to improve your visibility, attract more local customers, and outrank your competitors.
If you're a small business owner, ranking in Google’s Local 3-Pack could be the single most important thing you do for your visibility.
The 3-Pack is the set of three business listings that appear directly beneath the map when someone searches for a local service — like “electrician near me” or “best dentist in [city].” These spots get the most clicks, calls, and foot traffic.
So how do you earn one of them?
Use this step-by-step Local SEO checklist to improve your chances of ranking in the Google 3-Pack and outranking your local competitors.
Claim and Verify Your Google Business Profile
Start here. If your profile isn’t claimed and verified, you won’t be eligible for the 3-Pack. Head to Google Business Profileand follow the setup process.
Keep NAP Info Consistent Across the Web
Google values trust and accuracy. Your business Name, Address, and Phone Number (NAP) must be exactly the same across your website, directory listings, and social profiles. Even small differences can hurt your chances.
Choose the Right Business Categories
Select a primary category that closely reflects your core service. For example, don’t just use “Contractor” — use “Roofing Contractor” or “HVAC Contractor” if that’s more accurate. Add a couple of secondary categories if needed.
Optimize Your Website for Local Keywords
Make sure your website includes geo-targeted keywords like:
- “Plumbing services in Toronto”
- “Best family dentist near Vaughan”
Use these in your headings, page titles, meta descriptions, and content. Also include your service area on your contact or location page.
Get More Reviews (and Respond to Them)
Customer reviews are one of the biggest ranking factors for the 3-Pack. Encourage happy clients to leave reviews on your Google profile, and always respond — especially to negative ones. Google favors active, responsive businesses.
Add Photos and Posts to Your Profile
Post new photos regularly — of your location, your work, your team, or even behind-the-scenes shots. You can also publish Google Posts (like short updates or offers), which increase engagement and show that your business is active.
Build High-Quality Local Citations
List your business on trusted directories like:
- Yelp
- YellowPages
- Foursquare
- BBB
- Local Chamber of Commerce sites
The more consistent citations you have, the more credible your business appears to Google.
Ensure Your Site Is Mobile-Friendly
Most “near me” searches happen on smartphones. If your website isn’t mobile-optimized, loads slowly, or is hard to use — you’ll lose out to competitors who’ve prioritized mobile UX.
Use Local Schema Markup
This one’s more technical, but important. Schema markup tells search engines specific details about your business — like your name, services, location, and hours. Implementing local schema can help improve your eligibility for rich results and map rankings.
Monitor and Improve With Google Insights
Use the Insights tab in your Google Business Profile to track:
- How people find your listing
- What actions they take (calls, clicks, requests for directions)
- Which photos or posts perform best
Refine your content and strategy based on these results.
Final Thoughts: Ranking in the 3-Pack Is Within Reach
With the right local SEO strategy, ranking in the Google 3-Pack is achievable — even for small businesses with limited budgets. It all comes down to consistency, engagement, and optimization.
At Develop Digital, we help small businesses across North America rank higher, attract more customers, and get the most out of their Google Business Profile.