# Development

Mapbox vs Google Maps: What’s best for mapping in logistics?

Red Rocket teamOct 31, 20245 min read

Today, most mobile app development includes the mandatory elements: design, security system, and payment gateway. Moreover, in many cases, developers add digital maps. It is this solution that allows users to quickly see where they are now, how to get to the right branch, and which one is closest to them.

Using digital maps in apps and on websites aren't the only ways businesses are utilizing them. Undoubtedly, for the logistics industry, maps are the number one tool, and if you work with transportation, you need to know more about the best API map solutions. Sometimes, a fast-arriving order will be more pleasing to the customer than any loyalty system.

We at Red Rocket have been working on developing innovative products and software for a long time, so we are well aware of how maps are the most in-demand solution among businesses and customers today. That's why we want to dedicate this article to the Google Maps vs Mapbox pairing. Obviously, we won't forget to talk about the alternatives, which have also shown themselves perfectly in some cases.

Overview of popular mapping solutions

Each of us uses websites, apps and software on a daily basis where we are prompted to use geoposition when we log in. Have you ever wondered why they would want to get your position and if it looks suspicious? Actually, there is no reason to worry as it is a common practice to allow you to use maps in the app. Imagine that now you want to create your app, and you are faced with the choice of which mapping solution to choose after all. Undoubtedly, the first option that will come to your mind is Google Maps. However, as of 2018, this has become a paid solution, and that's why more and more businessmen are looking for affordable alternatives on the market. Surely, it all depends on your goals, budget, and personal preferences. We've put together an overview of the top three digital map solutions that are in high demand in 2024, and this trend will continue.

Google Maps

Google Maps is one of the best-known online mapping utilities, which is visited by more than one billion people monthly. It provides geopolitical maps and satellite images all over the globe, Google streets API views, and even the photosphere of numerous cities. Some of them are GPS navigation with turn-by-turn directions, real-time traffic advice, public transport schedules, and business listings with the provision of reviews.

Being an everyday consumer application, it plays a critical role in the functioning of such popular market players as Uber, Airbnb, Yelp, and many thousands of others by providing them with the necessary location-based technologies and data. Currently, with the help of Google Maps API, any developer can incorporate maps into his/her Web site or build-in applications with the addition of custom overlays.

Mapbox

Google is not the only company that develops and provides mapping solutions for ordinary users, apps, websites and different companies. The question «what is Mapbox?» becomes especially relevant when startup developers find out the cost of Google Maps and decide to look for something else. Mapbox is arguably one of the leading mapping and location data solutions providers, with its base in the US. Mapbox has, therefore, enabled the implementation of mapping solutions in many organizations such as Toyota, BMW, T-Mobile, and many others because of its flexible APIs and SDKs.

The platform ranges from navigation, logistics, agriculture, sustainability, weather, aviation, transportation, terminals, and stations. With the API, there is also an option to add one’s data in the maps, and also the style of the maps can be changed. Mapbox maps tie up devices, vehicles and networks together in order to enhance their functionality and performance.

Overall, Mapbox is a platform that has a significant number of fans because it uses artificial intelligence and machine learning in maps and location data. Some of them are traffic prediction as these use application of AI to enable applications to deliver better or faster info. Where internet access is an issue, offline maps have no limitations.

OpenStreetMap

The next digital map solution we want to talk about today is OpenStreetMap. Naturally, you might say that in a pairing of OpenStreetMap vs Google Maps, the winner will be the one that is best known. But is that how it really works? Let's take a closer look at what OpenStreetMap is and how these digital maps help people.

OpenStreetMap is a web based platform for collection and sharing of free geographic data and map mashups. OSM is a platform that relies on over 5 million registered contributors to source map data from local communities and as stated earlier, offers maps of the whole world at optimal detail. Since it is an open-source project, OSM allows free entry, free editing, and free designing among the users. OSM has no restrictions to merely technical experts; anybody can modify the maps with updated information or change its design to their preference or requirement.

Mapbox vs Google Maps API overview

Free digital map solutions are great options for small websites, apps, or companies. However, if you own a large business or simply have plans to scale, you should focus on paid programs. Why is this so? No one can guarantee that OpenStreetMap or other free programs will perform at their best in the future. This is why big companies should consider their choice between two solutions - Mapbox vs Google Maps. These commercial maps offer the best functionality, features, and solutions for many companies. However, choosing between the two can be quite difficult.

The first thing to consider when comparing these digital maps is functionality. They both allow you to see your current location, find the point you need on the planet, and plot a route there. Moreover, these maps offer a street view, which allows users to better navigate when they are looking for a desired address. A notable difference between the two is the lack of offline mode in Google Maps. Mapbox Maps, on the other hand, has implemented this feature so that you can use the maps 24/7, regardless of whether you are connected to the Internet.

Another point you should consider when choosing between these two options is the cost of use. By examining Mapbox vs Google Maps pricing, you can realize that Google is the solution for companies that can pay $200 for 28 thousand dynamic map downloads. This package also includes 100 thousand static map downloads and 40 thousand geolocation calls. Talking about Mapbox, it is also not a free tool for companies. However, the services of this software are much cheaper than the main competitors.

Real-life use cases in logistics

According to statistics, today, the global logistics market is estimated at 9 trillion dollars. Sounds impressive, doesn't it? For logistics and transportation companies to be successful, they need innovative technologies, including accurate digital maps for drivers. So, what logistics companies use Google Maps and Mapbox in real life?

Instacart, a major grocery delivery service, relies on Mapbox’s Geocoding and Directions APIs to ensure precise store and customer address identification, which reduces delivery errors and optimizes shopper routes. The API Mapbox supports accurate Estimated Arrival Times (ETAs), allowing Instacart to plan grouped deliveries efficiently, thus enhancing delivery speed and resource utilization. Similarly, Wolt, a European on-demand food and goods delivery service, employs Mapbox’s traffic-aware routing to improve courier delivery.

Google Maps, on the other hand, is often chosen for its widespread accessibility and ease of integration. Companies like FedEx utilize Google Maps for their traffic and road condition data, which helps drivers avoid delays and find optimal routes. Google Maps’ real-time data insights also help businesses like DHL track vehicle locations and delivery progress, ensuring customer satisfaction by providing updates on delivery times.

Pros and cons summary

As you may have already realized, Google Maps and Mapbox are the maps that are most commonly used by logistics companies, businesses from other niches, and regular users. We want to talk about the pros and cons of each of them. Let's start with the characteristics of Google Maps.

Google Maps benefits:

Google Maps uses thousands of satellites that provide clear images of our planet from more than 200 kilometers above ground. This allows users to get accurate information and geopositioning.
The street view feature is now available in most countries and it makes interacting with maps much easier.
Google Maps is a solution for people from all over the world, so this project is supported in 70 languages.

Google Maps drawbacks:

Google Maps has set a limit on the number of searches that cannot exceed 50.
Cost is another disadvantage that business owners may face.

Now check out the pros and cons of Mapbox APIs to choose which one to favor.

Mapbox APIs benefits:

This is a kind of map builder that you can customize yourself. This is great for companies that are looking to increase brand recognition.
Ability to use Mapbox maps both online and offline.
Function to add different 3D buildings to the map using augmented reality.

Mapbox APIs drawbacks:

Mapbox is a company that has fewer resources and finances to develop. Therefore, it loses to its main competitor in the quality of covered areas.

These two solutions for digital maps, geolocation, and route guidance both have their disadvantages and advantages.

Frequently asked questions

What's the best mapping solution today?

The choice between Mapbox and Google Maps depends on the specifics of the task. Mapbox offers more customization options, which is suitable for businesses with high map customization requirements, while Google Maps is more versatile. This all makes Mapbox vs Google Maps an ideal comparison for logistics.

Why is it important to find the best map for the logistics industry?

An accurate and reliable mapping solution, be it Mapbox, Google Maps, or OSM, helps to reduce costs and improve delivery times. As a result, optimizing routes will positively impact customer satisfaction.

What to look for when choosing a digital map?

If you are an average user and want to plot a route to a desired point, you can use any of the available maps. However, if you own an app or a logistics company, you need to make a conscious choice. You need to consider data accuracy, customization flexibility, and API availability. These parameters are critical for logistics tasks.