Why Your Trades Business Needs to Be in Google’s Local 3-Pack (and How to Get There)

If you’re a contractor, builder, or trades professional, your online presence is just as important as your on-site work. In the digital world, where customers search for services like “plumber near me” or “roofing company,” being featured in Google’s Local 3-Pack is the golden ticket to growing your business.

But what exactly is the Local 3-Pack, and why should your trades business care? Let’s dive in.


What Is Google’s Local 3-Pack?

The Local 3-Pack is the section of Google search results that highlights three nearby businesses when someone performs a location-based search. For example, searching for “electrician near me” will display a map and three top-rated local businesses prominently at the top of the page.

Why is this important? Because:

  • Visibility: It’s one of the first things people see in search results, often outranking traditional website links.
  • Credibility: Businesses in the 3-Pack tend to be viewed as more trustworthy.
  • Click-through Rates: Studies show that over 44% of users click on a Local 3-Pack result over other listings.

If your business isn’t featured here, you’re missing out on a huge pool of potential clients.


Benefits of Being in the Local 3-Pack

  1. Increased Lead Generation: Customers searching for services are often ready to buy. Being one of the first options they see makes it easier to turn searchers into leads.
  2. Higher Foot Traffic: If you operate a physical location, being visible here can directly drive more in-person visits.
  3. Edge Over Competitors: Being in the 3-Pack means you’re ahead of your competition that isn’t optimizing for local SEO.

How to Get Your Trades Business in the Local 3-Pack

Now that you know why it’s crucial, let’s look at how to get there:

1. Optimize Your Google Business Profile (GBP)

Your Google Business Profile is the foundation for ranking in the Local 3-Pack. Here’s what you need to do:

  • Complete Your Profile: Ensure all fields, including business name, address, phone number, and website, are accurate.
  • Use Keywords: Include terms like “licensed plumber” or “custom home builder” in your description.
  • Add Photos: High-quality images of your work build trust and engage potential clients.
  • Choose the Right Categories: Select the most relevant service categories for your business.

2. Gather Positive Reviews

Google prioritizes businesses with excellent reviews. Here’s how to build your reputation:

  • Ask satisfied clients to leave a review on Google.
  • Respond to every review—both positive and negative—to show you care about customer feedback.
  • Avoid fake reviews, as Google can penalize businesses that use them.

3. Nail Your NAP Consistency

NAP stands for Name, Address, and Phone number. These details must match across all online platforms, including:

  • Your website
  • Social media profiles
  • Online directories (like Yelp or Angie’s List)

Inconsistencies can confuse Google and hurt your chances of ranking.

4. Focus on Local SEO

Here are specific ways to improve your local SEO:

  • Add location-based keywords to your website’s titles, headings, and meta descriptions.
  • Create content tailored to your service area, such as blog posts on “The Best Time to Replace a Roof in [City].”
  • Get backlinks from other local businesses or publications.

5. Leverage Local Citations

Local citations are mentions of your business on other websites. They don’t need to link back to your site but must include your NAP details. Examples include:

  • Chamber of Commerce websites
  • Local business directories
  • Neighborhood forums

6. Use Geotagged Photos

When uploading photos to your Google Business Profile, geotag them with your business’s location. Tools like GeoImgr can help with this, giving Google more location-based signals to boost your ranking.


Real-Life Success Stories

Case Study 1: A Small HVAC Business in Chicago
An HVAC company in Chicago saw a 35% increase in calls after optimizing its Google Business Profile and encouraging clients to leave reviews. Within three months, they secured a spot in the Local 3-Pack for “AC repair Chicago.”

Case Study 2: A General Contractor in Dallas
After implementing local SEO strategies and posting geo-specific blog content, a contractor in Dallas landed in the 3-Pack for “custom home builder Dallas.” This led to a 20% rise in high-value leads.


Final Thoughts

Getting featured in Google’s Local 3-Pack doesn’t happen overnight, but the benefits for trades businesses are undeniable. By optimizing your Google Business Profile, maintaining NAP consistency, and focusing on local SEO strategies, you can significantly improve your online visibility and win more clients.

Ready to get started? Focus on delivering exceptional service to your current clients, and don’t hesitate to ask for reviews. With a little effort, your business could be just a search away from dominating your local market.


Need help optimizing your business for the Local 3-Pack? Let us know—we’re here to help you take your trades business to the next level.