Starting July 16, 2018, Google is actively implementing the new pricing policy for business use of Google Maps. Specifically, this means that you will start paying for each time a map is loaded on your website.
Since the launch of Maps in 2005, this service was free for users who did not exceed a certain usage cap. Until the introduction of the new rate plan on June 11, 2018, these old rates were applied. So as of mid-July 2018, this has changed and you are required to create a pay account where you only pay for what you use; or pay-as-you-go.
To offset these usage costs, you will receive a monthly recurring credit of $200 from Google. This can be used specifically for using Maps, Routes or Places on your website. You will also be given the option to set usage limits within your account to avoid unexpected cost increases.
If you do not make any changes, Google Maps will no longer be displayed on your website. If your website displays a lot of location and/or route information, you may have to pay for displaying Google Maps from now on. The monthly credit of $200 currently covers 100,000 loadings of a static map (image of a specific location generated by Google Maps). When using dynamic maps (interactive maps in which you can navigate), 28,500 charging actions are currently covered with the credit.
Laméco mostly uses dynamic maps on client websites. If the number of charging actions on your website is below the described number of charging actions, the additional cost will be irrelevant to you. Clients of websites that do exceed this number because they display a lot of location information will have the additional costs determined at the end of each month based on monthly usage.
Don't worry, we'll be happy to help you make the necessary adjustments. To continue using the Google Maps on your website, you need to create your own account at Google. After entering your payment details, you can leave the rest to us. We will arrange the request for the necessary API key and create the new link to your website.
Do you use Google Maps only to show your location on your website? Then you might also consider using a static map. Chances are, if you use the $200 credit, you won't have to incur any additional costs.
If you would like support with this adjustment, we would be happy to assist you. Please contact us at helpdesk@lameco.nl or call 040 - 8200 770.
