The Complete Guide to Moving Your Google Business Profile Without Losing SEO

When your business changes locations, expands, or opens a new branch, keeping your Google Business Profile (GBP) up to date is critical for visibility in Google Search and Google Maps.

But here’s the catch—how you update your listing depends on the type of move you’re making. Should you edit, create a new profile, or mark it as closed?

At Saltbox Marketing, we’ve simplified it for you with a quick, easy-to-follow framework:

The Summary Decision Rule for Google Business Profile Moves

Scenario	Recommended Action
Same business, same ownership, same region	✳️ Edit your existing Google Business Profile (relocation)
Different market area (20+ miles away)	➕ Create a new Google Business Profile and close the old one
You’re keeping both offices for now	🔁 Keep both listings active—optimize each for its local audience
You’re closing permanently, not moving	❌ Mark the listing as permanently closed in Google Business Profile Manager

Why This Matters for Local SEO

Your Google Business Profile is one of the most important local SEO assets your business owns. It determines how your company appears in local search results, Google Maps, and even voice search.

When a business moves or expands without properly updating its profile, Google’s algorithm can become confused—leading to duplicate listings, incorrect directions, and lost search visibility.

By following this decision rule, you’ll keep your information consistent across all platforms, maintain your reviews, and preserve your local search rankings.

Saltbox Pro Tip: Optimize for Each Location

If you operate in multiple markets, make sure each Google Business Profile includes:

✅ Localized keywords (e.g., “digital marketing agency in Toronto”)

✅ Location-specific photos

✅ Distinct Google Posts or updates

✅ Consistent NAP (Name, Address, Phone) information across the web

These small steps improve local SEO performance and help customers find the right location fast.

Need Help Managing Your Google Business Profiles?

At Saltbox Marketing, we help brands manage Google Business Profile optimization, local SEO strategy, and online reputation—so you can focus on running your business, not wrestling with your listings.

Whether you’re relocating, expanding, or rebranding, our team ensures your business shows up exactly where it should on Google Search and Maps.

📩 Let’s connect — and make your next move your most visible one.