Step-by-Step Guide for Businesses Using Virtual Offices or Mail Forwarding Services

Provided by Private Box Limited

 

  • Create or Claim Your Profile
    • Go to business.google.com and sign in with a Google account (use a business email like info@yourbusiness.nz).
    • Click “Add your business to Google.”
    • Search for your business name. If it appears, claim it. If not, add it manually.
    • Tip: Use your exact business name as registered with NZ Companies Office (companiesoffice.govt.nz) for faster verification.

Available for: 

  • Hobson St, Auckland Central
  • Johnsonville Road, Wellington

We help you stay visible online without a physical storefront. This guide is based on Google’s official guidelines (as of 2023). Google rules can change—always check business.google.com for updates. We’re not affiliated with Google and can’t guarantee approval.

Why Use a Service Area Business (SAB) Profile?

If your business doesn’t have a physical location where customers visit (like a shop or office), Google won’t let you list a virtual address (e.g., mail forwarding). Instead, set up as an SAB:

  • Hide your address from public view
  • Define areas you serve (e.g., Auckland, Wellington, or nationwide)
  • Appear in Google Search and Maps when people look for your services in those areas.
  • Avoid rejection or suspension—both common in virtual setups.

Important Rules from Google:

  • SABs are for businesses that visit or deliver to customers (e.g., plumbers, consultants, online sellers).
  • No PO boxes, virtual mailboxes, or shared addresses without a staffed presence.
  • You must verify your business (phone, email, or postcard).
  • Be honest—false info can lead to removal.

If you need a physical office for meetings, Private Box can provide this.

 

Step-by-Step Setup Instructions

  1. Choose Business Category and Details
    • Select a primary category (e.g., “Consultant,” “E-commerce Store”). This affects search visibility—choose accurately.
    • Enter your business details: phone, website, description (keep it under 750 characters, highlight services like “Auckland-based consulting with nationwide delivery”). 
  2. Set Up as a Service Area Business (Key Step to Hide Address)
    • When asked, “Do customers come to your location?” select “No, I deliver goods and services to my customers” (or similar wording).
    • This hides your address publicly.
    • Define your service area:
      • Add regions like “Auckland,” “North Island,” or postcodes (e.g., 1010 for CBD).
      • Google recommends a 2-hour travel radius—don’t overdo it (e.g., avoid claiming all of NZ if you don’t serve there).
      • You can add up to 20 areas. Use broad ones first, then refine. 
  3. Verify Your Business
    • Google needs proof you’re real. Options:
      • Phone or email (instant for some).
      • Postcard to your address (takes 5-14 days—use your virtual mail forwarding; we’ll scan/forward it).
      • Video verification (rare for SABs).
    • Once verified, your profile goes live. Respond to the code promptly! 
  4. Optimise Your Profile for Better Visibility
    • Add photos: Logo, team, products/services (no stock images—use real ones).
    • Hours: Set as “By appointment” or your availability.
    • Services/Products: List what you offer with prices/descriptions.
    • Posts: Share updates (e.g., “New services in Auckland!”).
    • Reviews: Encourage happy clients to leave Google reviews—boosts rankings.
    • Pro Tip: Link to your website and enable messaging for leads.
  5. Common Mistakes to Avoid
      • Don’t enter a virtual address if prompted—stick to SAB.
      • Update if you move: Edit in the dashboard.
      • Monitor for suspensions: Log in weekly; appeal via Google’s form if issues arise.
      • NZ-Specific: Use NZBN (New Zealand Business Number) if asked—it helps legitimacy.
      • You can always ask Private Box to set this up for you (for free) via https://www.privatebox.co.nz/contact/

Troubleshooting and FAQs

  • Rejected? Common reasons: Mismatched info or address issues. Edit and re-verify. Search “Google Business Profile suspended” for appeals.
  • How long does it take? 1-14 days.
  • Mobile App: Use the Google Business app for updates on-the-go.
  • Need Help? Contact us at support@privatebox.co.nz or hire an SEO expert via https://www.moneyhub.co.nz/best-seo-companies-auckland.html
  • Resources:

Get Started Today! This setup is free and can drive local customers. If you have questions, reply to this email or visit us at our Hobson St or Johnsonville Rd offices. 

Disclaimer: Approval is up to Google. We provide this guide as a value-add; no guarantees.