Why Every 3PL and Local Business Should Prioritize Google Business Profiles

Why Every 3PL and Local Business Should Prioritize Google Business Profiles

When most logistics companies think about SEO, they picture high-level keyword strategies and expensive ad campaigns. But in the latest episode of Disruptive Minds, host Bill Carlin sat down with Mac Frederick—founder of Momentum, a digital agency and former Google search team member—to discuss the most underutilized tool in a small business’s marketing stack: the Google Business Profile.

Free Visibility That Drives Revenue

"It’s free marketing," Mac explained. Unlike paid ads or complex content marketing campaigns, your Google Business Profile can help you show up on local search and Google Maps without spending a dime. It allows customers to find your services, read your reviews, and even call or message your business directly.

If you're a 3PL, warehouse, or trucking company, this is especially relevant. Most of your clients are searching for solutions in a specific location. Showing up correctly—and ahead of competitors—makes all the difference.

Profiles Aren't Just for Brick-and-Mortar

Many businesses don't realize that you can list your company as a "service area business" even if you don't have a storefront. This is crucial for fulfillment centers, delivery fleets, and mobile services. Just set your zip codes, counties, or service areas instead of listing an address. But beware: using a residential address or trying to create multiple profiles for the same business can get your listing suspended under Google’s new AI-driven verification system.

Optimization Matters

Having a profile isn’t enough. To rank and convert, you need to:

• Fill out every single field: name, hours, services, images, etc.
• Use a business email (not Gmail) and dedicated phone line.
• Match your legal business name and info with your incorporation docs.
• Post regular updates and photos.
• Solicit real reviews from satisfied customers.

The more active and detailed your profile, the more Google rewards you in local search results.

What If Your Profile Gets Suspended?

According to Mac, profile suspensions are a growing issue. And for many service businesses, it can cripple revenue. Agencies like Momentum specialize in reinstatements, but prevention is better than cure: follow the rules, use commercial addresses, and verify everything properly.

YouTube and Content Creation: SEO's Secret Weapon

While many 3PLs chase short-term wins with paid ads, Mac recommends investing in content. That could mean:

• Creating how-to videos for your services
• Posting shorts of behind-the-scenes operations
• Turning transcripts into blog posts using AI

Google owns YouTube, the second-largest search engine in the world. So when your content ranks there, you get visibility across Google as well. With tools like Loom and AI video editors, it's easier and cheaper than ever.

Should You Work With an Agency?

Running a Google profile might seem simple, but keeping up with algorithm changes, policy shifts, and best practices takes time. That’s why many small businesses turn to agencies like Momentum. You get a team of specialists—from SEO to ad buying—at a fraction of what it would cost to hire in-house.

As Mac puts it, "You can learn to change your own oil. But is that really the best use of your time?"

Final Takeaways

1. Use your Google Business Profile. It’s free, easy, and drives local traffic.
2. Invest in content. YouTube, short-form video, and AI tools can amplify your presence.

If you’re a 3PL, warehouse, or logistics provider looking to grow, it might be time to look beyond ads and invest in local SEO.