How do you set up the Google Maps API, and what is it for?
What is the Google Maps API For?
The Google Maps API is used to accurately pin your branch location on the map—beyond just using your address. This is especially important for on-demand deliveries so that GrabExpress riders and customers can easily locate your store.
⚠️ You only need to set this up if you're using GrabExpress as your on-demand courier.
✅ A Google (Gmail) account is required. Make sure you’re logged in before proceeding.
Step 1: Access API Settings in Your Shopify Store
In your Shopify Admin, go to:
Apps > EStore Prod App > Settings > API Settings
Step 2: Open the Google Cloud Platform Setup Page
In a new browser tab, go to this link to enable the Geocoding API:
Enable Google Maps Geocoding API
💡 Is this free?
Yes. Google Cloud includes $200 monthly credit, enough for over 10,000 orders/month. Charges only apply when you exceed this limit. There's no auto-charge after the free trial ends.
Step 3: Create a Google Cloud Project
Click Create a project, then click Continue.
Step 4: Accept Terms and Country Selection
- Tick the checkbox to agree to Google’s Terms of Service
- Select Philippines as your country
- Choose whether or not to receive emails from Google Cloud
- Click Agree and Continue
Step 5: Finalize and Create Your API Key
- Rename your API key if desired (e.g., “GrabExpress Key”)
- Leave Application Restrictions set to None
- Click Create
Step 6: Copy Your API Key
- After creation, go to the API Keys section
- Click the 📋 Clipboard icon next to the API key to copy it
Step 7: Activate Google Maps in Your Shopify Settings
- Go back to your Shopify Admin tab
- Click Activate Google Maps
- Paste your copied API key into the Google API Key field
- Click Save
Step 8: Set Up Billing in Google Cloud (If Not Done Yet)
- Go back to your Google Cloud tab
- Click the ☰ Menu icon in the top-left corner
- Go to Billing
💬 Why is this needed?
Even with free credits, Google requires billing info to enable API use. You won’t be charged unless you exceed your free monthly limit.
Step 9: Link or Create a Billing Account
- Click Link a Billing Account
- When prompted, click Create a Billing Account
Step 10: Confirm Country and Terms of Service
- Select Philippines as your country
- Tick the box to accept Terms of Service
- Click Continue
Step 11: Enter Billing Information and Start Free Trial
- Fill in your customer and billing details
- Click Start My Free Trial
✅ You’re all set! Your Google Maps API is now linked and ready for GrabExpress deliveries.
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