# The GBMaps map maker’s handbook Official public instructions for the classic GBMaps map maker. Source: https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php ## Contents - [Your first coloured map](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=getting-started) - [Postcode areas, districts & sectors explained](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=postcode-guide) - [Print View, Design & On Google](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=views) - [Move, zoom & frame the map](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=map-gestures) - [Portrait, landscape & square pages](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=orientation) - [Colour whole areas or smaller districts](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=colour-mode) - [START HERE: names, colours & territories](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=colouring) - [Key Settings: layout & visibility](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=key) - [Click, drag & resize the key](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=key-gestures) - [Extra text beneath key entries](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=legend-details) - [Map Titles: title & key heading](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=titles) - [Map Colours: page, labels & boundaries](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=colours) - [Choose a colour](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=palette) - [Map details: boundaries & place labels](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=details) - [Show only your assigned territories](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=hide-unassigned) - [Regions, London & inset maps](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=regions) - [Add an inset from this map or another saved map](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=live-inset) - [Shapes & Text: draw, highlight and explain your map](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=shapes-text) - [Images: add a logo, photograph or illustration](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=page-images) - [Roads, land & specialist map layers](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=roads) - [Radial Circles: distance rings](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=circles) - [Several circle centres & linked settings](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=circle-sets) - [Colour postcodes inside circles](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=circle-postcodes) - [Advanced concentric-circle import](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=advanced-circles) - [Marker Boxes: labelled places](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=markers) - [Import marker boxes from postcodes](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=marker-import) - [Advanced marker import: every column](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=advanced-markers) - [Create Dots: postcode locations](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=dots) - [Dot transparency, outlines & dashes](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=dot-style) - [Colour postcodes inside dots](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=dots-postcodes) - [Advanced dots & shapes: every column](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=advanced-dots) - [Distance/Time: road-travel areas](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=travel) - [Colour postcodes inside travel areas](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=travel-postcodes) - [Import Excel: postcode territories](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=excel) - [Excel import with your own colours](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=excel-colours) - [Get a spreadsheet ready for import](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=import-checklist) - [Additional Data: add your own figures](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=data) - [Heat Maps: colour areas by their values](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=heat-maps) - [Upload your postcode figures](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=data-import) - [More Maps: find the right boundaries](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=more) - [Help, FAQs & the newer mapping tool](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=resources) - [Start afresh or switch maps](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=new-map) - [Save, open & keep a separate copy](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=save) - [How to download your map as PDF, PNG, SVG or PowerPoint](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=downloads) - [Use your map in PowerPoint](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=powerpoint) - [On Google: explore the geographic preview](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=google) - [Google preview: opacity, key & extent](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=google-controls) - [Log in or unlock from the sidebar](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=login) - [Sign in to your maps](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=sign-in) - [Your first password: keep your existing maps](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=first-password) - [Forgotten your password?](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=password-reset) - [Email verification codes: enter, resend or start again](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=email-code) - [Choose and save your password](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=choose-password) - [Cannot sign in or receive a code?](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=sign-in-problems) - [Warnings while choosing a password](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=password-warnings) - [Asked to sign in again while working](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=sign-in-again) - [Your account, login & logout](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=account) - [Saved maps: access, renewals & new maps](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=saved-access) - [Find, reopen & manage saved files](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=saved-files) - [Saved-map row: the options menu](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=saved-actions) - [Convert an area map to finer detail](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=conversion) - [Transfer a saved map to another account](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=transfer) - [Buy, unlock or renew a map](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=payments) - [Order a printed map](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=print-order) - [Print order: finish, size & delivery](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=print-delivery) - [Warnings, confirmations & busy messages](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=messages) - [How to create a postcode sales territory map](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=territory-recipe) - [How to colour a postcode map from a spreadsheet](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=spreadsheet-recipe) - [How to map a depot and its delivery coverage](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=coverage-recipe) - [How to make a sales heat map from your own data](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=sales-map-recipe) - [When the map does not do what you expect](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=troubleshooting) - [Map words & gesture quick reference](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=glossary) - [Ask the map assistant](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=map-assistant) - [How we use assistant chats](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=assistant-privacy) - [Unlocking maps](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=service-unlocking) - [Upgrades & refunds](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=service-upgrades) - [Accounts & sharing](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=service-accounts) - [About GBMaps](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=service-about) --- # Your first coloured map Official GBMaps guide for the classic map maker. VectorMaps has a different interface. Source: https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=getting-started Updated: 2026-09-29 A good territory map begins with a few clear names. Give each team, branch or service area its own zone in the legend (also called the key). Click a zone name in the legend to select it, then click inside the shapes on the map that you want to colour for that zone. You can tidy the labels and page layout afterwards. [Watch tutorial video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TSoytGAOJg0) Some videos show an earlier layout. The written instructions below describe the current controls; this is a guide, not a video transcript. ![Your first coloured map — current GBMaps controls](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/start.png) The current panel, with its options expanded where useful. Select a numbered circle to read its explanation. ## 1. Select the zone, then click the map ![North team is selected in red in the map legend. Several Yorkshire postcode districts are green. A pointer sits inside the still-white YO17 shape, ready to colour it.](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/example-click-before.png) Click North team’s name in the legend first. Then click inside YO17 on the map itself. The pointer shows the sort of place to click: inside the boundary shape, rather than on a legend colour square or a menu control. ## 2. See the shape change colour ![After the click, YO17 has turned green to match the selected North team zone. The other shapes and the legend remain in place.](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/example-click-after.png) After that click, YO17 belongs to North team and turns green. Continue clicking the map shapes you want in this zone. You only need to select a new legend name when you want to work on a different zone. ## 3. Choose the next zone ![York team is now selected in the legend. Its postcode shapes around York are blue, while the North team territory remains green.](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/example-two-zones.png) Select York team in the legend, then click its shapes on the map. They turn blue; the existing North team shapes remain green. If you click a shape already owned by another zone, you move it into the zone you have selected. ## 1. Start with the names in your key Open START HERE and choose Add New Name. Type a useful name such as North team or Leeds depot. The entry appears in the map key as you type. Add one entry for each territory you want people to recognise. The name is a label for your territory; it does not search for or select a place automatically. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=getting-started#getting-started--names) ## 2. Choose the territory you are working on Click the zone name in the legend on the map, for example North team. Its name is highlighted to show it is selected. Now move your pointer onto the map itself and click inside each postcode or county shape that belongs to North team. Each shape takes that zone’s colour. Click a different zone name in the legend before colouring the shapes for your next team. You can also select a zone through its name box in START HERE. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=getting-started#getting-started--select) ## 3. Give each territory a clear colour Click its colour square to open the palette. Choosing a colour changes that entry and the polygons already assigned to it. Pick colours that remain easy to tell apart when the map is printed. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=getting-started#getting-started--colour) ## 4. Tidy the map, then save it Use Map details to reduce clutter, Map Titles to describe the job and Key Settings to arrange the key. Check Print View before exporting. Save the editable map as well as downloading the finished image; the editable copy is what you will reopen to change the territories. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=getting-started#getting-started--tidy) ## Related guides - [Postcode areas, districts & sectors explained](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=postcode-guide) - [START HERE: names, colours & territories](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=colouring) - [Move, zoom & frame the map](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=map-gestures) - [Save, open & keep a separate copy](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=save) - [How to create a postcode sales territory map](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=territory-recipe) --- # Postcode areas, districts & sectors explained Official GBMaps guide for the classic map maker. VectorMaps has a different interface. Source: https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=postcode-guide Updated: 2026-09-29 Which postcode map do you need? Start with one familiar postcode, see how its boundaries divide on the map, then choose the smallest shapes you need to colour separately. ## 1. One postcode, four levels: YO18 7TG Read a postcode from left to right and each level narrows the location. YO is the postcode area; YO18 is the district; YO18 7 is the sector; YO18 7TG is the full postcode, also called a postcode unit. Each longer code includes the part before it. The district is YO18, not just 18, and the sector is YO18 7, not just 7. **Area** **YO** The broadest of these map boundaries. **District** **YO18** One smaller part of the YO area. **Sector** **YO18 7** One smaller part of the YO18 district. **Full postcode / unit** **YO18 7TG** The complete code used for an address. **Keep the beginning each time:** YO → YO18 → YO18 7 → YO18 7TG. The bold part is the complete code for that level. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=postcode-guide#postcode-guide--breakdown) ## 2. See the difference on the map The coloured pieces below are the shapes you can click to build territories. On an area map, one click can colour the whole YO area. On a district map, YO18 can have a different colour from neighbouring YO17 or YO62. On a sector map, YO18 7 and YO18 8 can be coloured separately. The district and sector pictures use the same view and zoom: the extra boundaries come from the map detail, not from zooming in. ![Postcode area map with the entire YO area coloured green and neighbouring postcode areas labelled.](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/postcode-area.png?v=1790670435) **An area: the whole YO shape** The green shape is the YO postcode area. It is one colourable piece at area level, surrounded by other areas such as TS, HG and HU. This first picture shows a wider stretch of the map so you can see the whole area. ![District map close-up with YO18 coloured blue, beside YO17, YO22 and YO62.](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/postcode-district.png?v=1790670435) **A district: YO18 on its own** Now zoom into part of YO. The blue shape is YO18. Nearby YO17, YO22 and YO62 are separate districts, so they can belong to different territories. ![Sector map at the same zoom as the district example, showing separate gold YO18 7 and pink YO18 8 polygons.](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/postcode-sector.png?v=1790670435) **Sectors: divide YO18 further** At the same zoom, YO18 7 is gold and YO18 8 is pink. You can put these two pieces in different territories, or give them the same colour to group them together. **Same place, more choices.** The two lower pictures cover exactly the same extent. Sectors add smaller colourable pieces inside the district. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=postcode-guide#postcode-guide--map-comparison) ## 3. Choose the smallest shape you need to colour Think of a real boundary between two of your territories. Would one person look after all of YO, or would different people cover parts of it? If a boundary needs to run between two districts, choose district detail. If it needs to run inside a district, choose sectors. You can always combine several shapes into one territory; you cannot divide a single postcode polygon into finer postcode shapes on a coarser map. ### Choose areas YO · LS · HG “Each sales region covers one or more whole postcode areas.” A clear national overview with fewer shapes and labels. ### Choose districts YO17 · YO18 · YO62 “Our teams need different parts of the YO area.” Useful for regional sales territories, delivery patches and account allocation. ### Choose sectors YO18 7 · YO18 8 “Two teams share YO18 and need their own smaller patches.” Choose this when a district is still too broad for your boundaries. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=postcode-guide#postcode-guide--choose) ## 4. Postcodes do not all have the same number of letters The part before the space is the outward code: it identifies the district. The three characters after the space are the inward code. Its first character is a number, which adds the sector; its final two letters complete the full postcode. The area starts with one or two letters, while a district can have one or two numbers and sometimes an extra letter. SW1A is a district, for example: the A belongs with SW1A. Do not split every postcode after a fixed number of characters. **YO18** **Outward code** The district **7TG** **Inward code** 7 gives the sector; TG completes the postcode Different formats, the same four levels Full postcode | Area | District | Sector | YO18 7TG | YO | YO18 | YO18 7 | PO15 5RR | PO | PO15 | PO15 5 | SW1A 1AA | SW | SW1A | SW1A 1 | [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=postcode-guide#postcode-guide--formats) ## 5. A small space makes a big difference YO18 is a district. YO1 8 is a sector in the different district YO1. They are not the same place. Write sectors with a space before the final digit, and full postcodes with a space before the final three characters. Some compact map labels omit the space: YO187 on a sector map means YO18 7. These illustrations put it back to make the levels easier to recognise. Use clearly spaced codes in your own spreadsheets. **YO18** A **district** in the YO area **YO1 8** A **sector** within district YO1 [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=postcode-guide#postcode-guide--spaces) ## 6. Zoom, visible boundaries and colouring mode are different Zooming enlarges the shapes already on your map; it does not turn an area map into a district or sector map. A detailed map can show broader boundaries for reference as well as its smaller shapes. Use the Colour selector at the top of the editor to check which level a click will colour. In START HERE, select the zone in the legend first, then click the map shapes you want to give that zone’s colour. If you have already coloured smaller shapes, colouring their whole parent area can replace that work; read the warning before continuing. [See how the Colour selector works →](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=colour-mode) [Build your first territory →](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=territory-recipe) [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=postcode-guide#postcode-guide--zoom) ## 7. A full postcode is not necessarily one house A full postcode usually refers to a group of delivery addresses; some large users have a postcode of their own. It is not a precise building boundary. The three polygon map choices discussed here are areas, districts and sectors, with sectors giving the finest of those boundaries. A postcode dot or marker is a location placed on the map, rather than another colourable polygon. If you want to show customers or branches, you may be able to use dots on a simpler map without needing sector boundaries. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=postcode-guide#postcode-guide--units) ## 8. Postcode boundaries are not county boundaries Postal geography is a different system from counties, councils and wards. A postcode area may cross administrative boundaries, and its name does not mean it covers only the town or county you associate with it. Choose postcode maps when postcodes are how you allocate work or record customers. If your report genuinely needs county boundaries, look at the county map instead. Also, a large rural polygon is not necessarily a bigger market than a small urban one: size on the page does not tell you its population or sales. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=postcode-guide#postcode-guide--counties) ## 9. Detailed customer data can still work on a simpler map Choose the map detail for the territories you want to see and edit, rather than the length of the postcodes in your file. For example, a sales dataset recorded by sector can be added together for its parent districts or areas. Full-postcode values can also contribute to those totals. In My datasets, upload the CSV, check the postcode and value columns, then name and save it. Data must match the supported postcode geography; check the import results and any partial-total warning. Going the other way is different: a total for YO18 does not tell us how much belongs in YO18 7 or YO18 8, so the tool cannot invent that split. [Upload your own figures →](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=data-import) [Import a list to colour territories →](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=excel) [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=postcode-guide#postcode-guide--data) ## 10. Your territories do not have to stop at a postcode area A territory is the collection of shapes you give the same zone colour. On a district map you might group several YO districts with neighbouring districts in another postcode area. They remain separate postcode shapes, but their colour and legend entry show that they belong to the same team. Add your own zone names in the legend, and use Hide unassigned areas when you want the finished map to focus on the places you have coloured. More detail is useful only when you need those extra divisions; it can also mean more labels to fit on a printed page. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=postcode-guide#postcode-guide--territories) ## 11. Try your own patch before choosing a licence Find a place you know and try colouring the territories you actually need. Check the Colour selector, the available boundaries and how the labels look in Print View. If your job depends on an import, try a small representative sample too. An area map is often enough for a broad national overview; districts suit many regional territory plans; sectors let you make finer local divisions. Check the selected map’s current unlock options for what the licence includes before buying. The map links in the public handbook open a preview of the editor, not a payment. [Try an area map ↗](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map4-ui-test5.php?mapRegion=uk&mapType=area) [Try a district map ↗](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map4-ui-test5.php?mapRegion=uk&mapType=district) [Try a sector map ↗](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map4-ui-test5.php?mapRegion=sector&mapType=district) [Find the map choices in the tool →](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=more) [Read about licences and unlocking →](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=service-unlocking) [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=postcode-guide#postcode-guide--before-buying) ## 12. Check a postcode you are unsure about Postcodes can be introduced, changed or retired, so an old customer list may contain codes that do not match a current map. Check questionable entries before treating an unmatched row as zero sales or no customers. The pictures here use the tool’s real map artwork with example colours and larger labels for explanation. They explain the levels; they are not a postcode lookup or a statement that a particular address is current. **Useful references** - [Royal Mail postcode finder ↗](https://www.royalmail.com/find-a-postcode) — check an address and its postcode. - [ONS: UK postal geography ↗](https://www.ons.gov.uk/methodology/geography/ukgeographies/postalgeography) — how the postcode hierarchy and postal boundaries work. - [Royal Mail glossary (PDF) ↗](https://www.royalmailtechnical.com/rmt_docs/User_Guides_2025/Glossary_24072025.pdf) — definitions of districts, sectors and postcode parts. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=postcode-guide#postcode-guide--check-code) ## Related guides - [Colour whole areas or smaller districts](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=colour-mode) - [How to create a postcode sales territory map](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=territory-recipe) - [Import Excel: postcode territories](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=excel) - [Upload your postcode figures](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=data-import) - [More Maps: find the right boundaries](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=more) --- # Print View, Design & On Google Official GBMaps guide for the classic map maker. VectorMaps has a different interface. Source: https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=views Updated: 2026-09-29 These tabs show the map in different contexts. Print View and Design work on the same artwork. On Google opens a geographic preview of the territory information. ![Print View, Design & On Google — current GBMaps controls](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/toolbar.png) The current panel, with its options expanded where useful. Select a numbered circle to read its explanation. ## 1. Print View Shows the page background, title and border, with the map clipped to the page. Use it to judge what will fit on a PDF or image: check the key, markers and any circles near the edges. It is still possible to work on the map here. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=views#views--print) ## 2. Design Gives you room to work beyond the page edge. The page decorations are hidden and a guide shows the page boundary. It is useful when moving the map or key into place. Anything left outside the final page may be cut off in a download. Switching tabs does not create a second design. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=views#views--design) ## 3. On Google Builds a preview of the current territories over a geographic background. The editing sidebar is hidden and cannot be reopened in this view; it returns to its previous state when you go back to Print View or Design. Undo and Redo are unavailable here. Return to the editor to change the design, then reopen On Google to refresh the preview. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=views#views--google) ## 4. Controls Shows or hides the floating map controls, including the colouring mode, page orientation and navigation buttons. Hiding them makes more room to inspect the artwork; it does not remove map content from a saved file. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=views#views--controls) ## 5. Quick Tour Starts the guided introduction to the tool. Follow its on-screen steps, move on with its navigation buttons, or close it to return to your map. The question-mark links beside individual menus take you to the relevant video. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=views#views--tour) ## 6. Messages: Original / New The colourful messages are the standard presentation. Use this control to change the style of prompts without changing what their buttons do. Your choice is remembered in this browser. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=views#views--messages) ## 7. Undo and Redo Undo reverses a recent colouring operation; Redo restores it. A greyed-out button has no available step, or you are in a view where editing is unavailable. Read any import or delete confirmation rather than assuming the whole tool has unlimited undo. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=views#views--history) ## 8. Postcode or place search Enter a postcode or place and use the magnifying-glass button. The search locates it for you; it does not assign it to a territory. The red clear button removes the search indication. Search availability and wording depend on the selected map. The same top search is used in On Google once that preview is ready. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=views#views--search) ## 9. Blue question-mark beside Undo Opens this handbook in a large overlay. Search for an answer or browse the menus, then use the close cross, Back to my map or Escape to resume your work. It is also available in On Google. Help does not save or change the map. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=views#views--help) ## Related guides - [Move, zoom & frame the map](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=map-gestures) - [On Google: explore the geographic preview](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=google) - [Save, open & keep a separate copy](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=save) - [Warnings, confirmations & busy messages](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=messages) --- # Move, zoom & frame the map Official GBMaps guide for the classic map maker. VectorMaps has a different interface. Source: https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=map-gestures Updated: 2026-09-29 Map movement changes the composition of the artwork on the page. Place the pointer over the map itself when you want to move or zoom the map; the key has its own gestures. ![Move, zoom & frame the map — current GBMaps controls](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/navigation.png) The current panel, with its options expanded where useful. Select a numbered circle to read its explanation. ## 1. Scroll over the map to zoom Roll the wheel or use your trackpad’s scroll gesture over the map to change its scale. Zoom in for small districts or sectors, then zoom out to check the overall composition. Double-click also zooms the SVG map, but use the wheel or +/− while colouring to avoid combining quick colouring clicks with a zoom. If the key changes size, move the pointer off the key first. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=map-gestures#map-gestures--wheel) ## 2. Drag the map to reposition it Press and hold on the map, move the pointer, then release. This moves the map within the page without changing which territory owns a polygon. A quick click is a colouring action, so make a deliberate drag. Switch off Place on map or Place centre on map first if a marker or circle is being repositioned. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=map-gestures#map-gestures--drag) ## 3. Minus and plus Use − to zoom out and + to zoom in. They are useful if your mouse has no wheel or you want an obvious control on a touch screen. Zooming can also change which boundary level is selected for colouring, so keep an eye on Colour:. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=map-gestures#map-gestures--buttons) ## 4. Fit map Restores the map’s starting scale and position. Use it if you have zoomed too far in, moved the map out of sight, or want to start framing the page again. It does not clear your territory colours. The key has its own Reset position button. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=map-gestures#map-gestures--fit) ## 5. Move map and the arrow pad Opens the directional controls. Use the arrows to move the artwork up, down, left or right; holding an arrow continues the movement. The centre button fits the map. Click away or press Escape to close the pad. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=map-gestures#map-gestures--move) ## 6. Working on a touch screen Tap a territory name and then a polygon to colour it. Use a deliberate drag to move the map and a two-finger pinch to zoom. The visible +, − and Move map controls are useful when a small polygon or a crowded key makes touch gestures awkward. A placement mode takes priority over ordinary colouring. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=map-gestures#map-gestures--touch) ## 7. Open or tuck away the sidebar Click a menu heading to open its controls; opening another menu closes the previous panel. If the opened panel would run off the screen, the sidebar gently scrolls as the menu opens to show more of it. Long panels stop with their heading still visible. You can scroll up or down yourself at any time. Use the handle at the side of the sidebar to make more room for the map, then use it again to bring the menus back. In On Google the sidebar is intentionally unavailable. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=map-gestures#map-gestures--sidebar) ## Related guides - [Click, drag & resize the key](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=key-gestures) - [Portrait, landscape & square pages](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=orientation) - [Colour whole areas or smaller districts](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=colour-mode) - [On Google: explore the geographic preview](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=google) --- # Portrait, landscape & square pages Official GBMaps guide for the classic map maker. VectorMaps has a different interface. Source: https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=orientation Updated: 2026-09-29 Page shape and key layout are separate choices. A landscape page can still have a tall, portrait key. [Watch tutorial video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i4pMhr9bAb4) Some videos show an earlier layout. The written instructions below describe the current controls; this is a guide, not a video transcript. ![Portrait, landscape & square pages — current GBMaps controls](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/orientation.png) The current panel, with its options expanded where useful. Select a numbered circle to read its explanation. ## 1. Portrait Gives you a tall page. This often suits a map of Great Britain or a north–south territory. After switching, check the map framing, title and key in Print View. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=orientation#orientation--portrait) ## 2. Landscape Gives you a wide page. It can work well for an east–west region or a presentation slide. Move and resize the map and key to make good use of the width. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=orientation#orientation--landscape) ## 3. Square Uses a square page for a more balanced local map or a square graphic. Check the edges before exporting; changing the page shape does not decide the best composition for you. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=orientation#orientation--square) ## Related guides - [Key Settings: layout & visibility](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=key) - [Move, zoom & frame the map](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=map-gestures) - [How to download your map as PDF, PNG, SVG or PowerPoint](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=downloads) --- # Colour whole areas or smaller districts Official GBMaps guide for the classic map maker. VectorMaps has a different interface. Source: https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=colour-mode Updated: 2026-09-29 A map can contain a broad boundary layer and a more detailed one. The Colour: control tells you which level a click will affect. The Detail: control describes the map product itself. [Watch tutorial video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TSoytGAOJg0) Some videos show an earlier layout. The written instructions below describe the current controls; this is a guide, not a video transcript. ![Colour whole areas or smaller districts — current GBMaps controls](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/colour-mode.png) The current panel, with its options expanded where useful. Select a numbered circle to read its explanation. ## 2. See the shape change colour ![After the click, YO17 has turned green to match the selected North team zone. The other shapes and the legend remain in place.](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/example-click-after.png) After that click, YO17 belongs to North team and turns green. Continue clicking the map shapes you want in this zone. You only need to select a new legend name when you want to work on a different zone. ## 1. Colour: choose the boundary level On a district or sector map, click Colour: to switch between the available broad and detailed colouring modes. Zooming also changes the automatic mode as you move between an overview and close detail. Always read this label before colouring: seeing small boundaries does not by itself mean a click will affect only one small polygon. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=colour-mode#colour-mode--level) ## 2. The whole-area warning If some smaller polygons already have territory assignments and you try to colour their whole parent area, the tool warns you before replacing that work. Choose Keep existing colours to leave it alone, or Colour whole area to replace the assignments across that area. This also applies when zooming has automatically changed the colouring mode. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=colour-mode#colour-mode--warning) ## 3. After replacing a whole area If you confirmed the replacement by mistake, use Undo straight away to restore the preceding colouring. To build up a mixed area carefully, switch back to the smaller boundary level and assign the individual districts or sectors instead. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=colour-mode#colour-mode--undo) ## 4. Detail: see or choose another map Opens a short explanation of the current boundary detail and a suggested more detailed map, where one exists. The preview/browse link opens another map choice; it is not a switch that adds new geometry to your current saved artwork. Save your current work before leaving. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=colour-mode#colour-mode--detail) ## Related guides - [Postcode areas, districts & sectors explained](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=postcode-guide) - [START HERE: names, colours & territories](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=colouring) - [Map details: boundaries & place labels](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=details) - [More Maps: find the right boundaries](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=more) - [Warnings, confirmations & busy messages](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=messages) --- # START HERE: names, colours & territories Official GBMaps guide for the classic map maker. VectorMaps has a different interface. Source: https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=colouring Updated: 2026-09-29 Each zone in the legend represents a territory, such as a sales team, depot or service area. To build it, click the zone name in the legend, then click the shapes you want to colour on the map itself. Those boundary shapes are sometimes called polygons. You can change the zone’s name or colour later without selecting all its shapes again. [Watch tutorial video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TSoytGAOJg0) Some videos show an earlier layout. The written instructions below describe the current controls; this is a guide, not a video transcript. ![START HERE: names, colours & territories — current GBMaps controls](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/start.png) The current panel, with its options expanded where useful. Select a numbered circle to read its explanation. ## 1. Select the zone, then click the map ![North team is selected in red in the map legend. Several Yorkshire postcode districts are green. A pointer sits inside the still-white YO17 shape, ready to colour it.](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/example-click-before.png) Click North team’s name in the legend first. Then click inside YO17 on the map itself. The pointer shows the sort of place to click: inside the boundary shape, rather than on a legend colour square or a menu control. ## 2. See the shape change colour ![After the click, YO17 has turned green to match the selected North team zone. The other shapes and the legend remain in place.](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/example-click-after.png) After that click, YO17 belongs to North team and turns green. Continue clicking the map shapes you want in this zone. You only need to select a new legend name when you want to work on a different zone. ## 3. Choose the next zone ![York team is now selected in the legend. Its postcode shapes around York are blue, while the North team territory remains green.](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/example-two-zones.png) Select York team in the legend, then click its shapes on the map. They turn blue; the existing North team shapes remain green. If you click a shape already owned by another zone, you move it into the zone you have selected. ## 1. Add New Name Adds a name box and colour square. Type the name to create the entry. Keep it short enough to sit comfortably in the key; the name box allows up to 29 characters. An empty draft is not a useful territory. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=colouring#colouring--add) ## 2. Edit or select a name Click into an existing name box to select that territory and edit its wording. The lettering in the key updates as you type. Renaming does not move its assigned polygons to a different team. You can also select a territory by clicking its name on the map key. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=colouring#colouring--rename) ## 3. Change a territory colour Click the square beside the name, or the matching square in the map key. Choose a new swatch in the palette. All polygons belonging to that entry follow the change. Two territories can use the same colour, but different colours usually make them easier to read. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=colouring#colouring--swatch) ## 4. Click inside the map shapes to colour them First click the zone name you want in the legend. Then click once inside a postcode or county shape on the map itself, away from its boundary line. That shape fills with the selected zone’s colour. Repeat for every shape in that territory; you do not have to select the zone again between clicks. To work on another territory, click its name in the legend first. Clicking a shape already assigned to the selected zone clears it; clicking one belonging to a different zone moves it into the selected zone. Check the Colour: control on maps with two boundary levels, so a click affects the district or whole area you intend. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=colouring#colouring--paint) ## 5. Remove a territory The red cross beside a name deletes that entry and clears the polygons assigned to it. It is more than removing a line of text from the key. To keep the territory but change its wording, edit the name instead. Save a copy before a substantial reorganisation. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=colouring#colouring--remove) ## 6. Correct a colouring mistake Use Undo on the top toolbar to step back through colouring changes; Redo reapplies a change you have just undone. Do not rely on these buttons to reverse every kind of edit, import, deletion or account action. A separately saved copy is the safer way to keep a previous version. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=colouring#colouring--undo) ## Related guides - [Colour whole areas or smaller districts](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=colour-mode) - [Click, drag & resize the key](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=key-gestures) - [Choose a colour](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=palette) - [Import Excel: postcode territories](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=excel) - [Show only your assigned territories](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=hide-unassigned) --- # Key Settings: layout & visibility Official GBMaps guide for the classic map maker. VectorMaps has a different interface. Source: https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=key Updated: 2026-09-29 The key explains the territory colours. Keep it large enough to read, but small enough to leave useful space for the map. [Watch tutorial video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8qs9vmGI5Ko) Some videos show an earlier layout. The written instructions below describe the current controls; this is a guide, not a video transcript. ![Key Settings: layout & visibility — current GBMaps controls](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/key.png) The current panel, with its options expanded where useful. Select a numbered circle to read its explanation. ## 1. Show key on map Untick to hide the key without deleting its names, colours or territory assignments. Tick it again to bring it back. This is useful when the map will sit beside a separate explanation in a report. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=key#key--show) ## 2. Portrait key Arranges the entries vertically. It is usually the clearest option for long names, extra text or statistics. This changes the key layout, not the page orientation. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=key#key--portrait) ## 3. Landscape key Arranges entries across the key. Use the rows selector that appears to choose between one and six rows. More rows make the key less wide; fewer rows make it shallower. Check longer names and any extra details after changing the layout. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=key#key--landscape) ## 4. Legend details… Opens the editor for extra lines beneath each territory name. Use these for a contact name, telephone number, depot address or a short note. The entry names and territory assignments stay as they are. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=key#key--details) ## 5. Reset position Restores the key’s default position and size. It is the quickest way to recover a key that has been dragged off the page or made too small to find. Move and resize it again once it is back in view. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=key#key--reset) ## Related guides - [Click, drag & resize the key](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=key-gestures) - [Extra text beneath key entries](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=legend-details) - [Map Titles: title & key heading](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=titles) - [Additional Data: add your own figures](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=data) --- # Click, drag & resize the key Official GBMaps guide for the classic map maker. VectorMaps has a different interface. Source: https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=key-gestures Updated: 2026-09-29 Different parts of the key have different jobs. Aim at the background to move it, at a name to select or reorder it, and at a colour square to change its colour. [Watch tutorial video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8qs9vmGI5Ko) Some videos show an earlier layout. The written instructions below describe the current controls; this is a guide, not a video transcript. ![Click, drag & resize the key — current GBMaps controls](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/key-example.png) The current panel, with its options expanded where useful. Select a numbered circle to read its explanation. ## 3. Choose the next zone ![York team is now selected in the legend. Its postcode shapes around York are blue, while the North team territory remains green.](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/example-two-zones.png) Select York team in the legend, then click its shapes on the map. They turn blue; the existing North team shapes remain green. If you click a shape already owned by another zone, you move it into the zone you have selected. ## 1. Click a name to select a territory Click the zone name in the legend to make it your active territory; the name becomes highlighted. Move onto the map and click inside the shapes you want to give that zone’s colour. Selecting the name alone does not colour anything. Keep clicking map shapes to grow the territory, then select another legend name when you want to use its colour. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=key-gestures#key-gestures--select) ## 2. Click a colour square to recolour Opens the colour palette for that entry. Choosing a swatch updates the key square and the polygons assigned to the entry. Use the name beside it when you only want to select the territory. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=key-gestures#key-gestures--swatch) ## 3. Drag the key background to move the whole key Hold a blank part of the key background or its frame, drag to the new position and release. All its entries move together. Keep it inside the page in Print View so it is included in the download. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=key-gestures#key-gestures--drag) ## 4. Drag a name up or down to reorder entries In the vertical key, drag the name to its new position in the list. Its colour square and associated detail move with it, and the list is laid out again when you release. This changes the order of the key, not the boundaries of the territories. Use a clear up/down movement rather than dragging the background. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=key-gestures#key-gestures--reorder) ## 5. Scroll over the key to change its size With the pointer over a portrait key, scroll down to make it smaller and up to make it larger. The whole key scales together. Move the pointer back over the map to zoom the map instead. If the key has become awkward to handle, use Key Settings → Reset position. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=key-gestures#key-gestures--resize) ## Related guides - [Key Settings: layout & visibility](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=key) - [START HERE: names, colours & territories](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=colouring) - [Extra text beneath key entries](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=legend-details) - [Choose a colour](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=palette) --- # Extra text beneath key entries Official GBMaps guide for the classic map maker. VectorMaps has a different interface. Source: https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=legend-details Updated: 2026-09-29 Add useful contact details or notes without squeezing everything into the territory name. Changes in this dialog are held until you choose Apply to legend. [Watch tutorial video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8qs9vmGI5Ko) Some videos show an earlier layout. The written instructions below describe the current controls; this is a guide, not a video transcript. ![Legend details dialog with extra text colour, territory notes, preview and spreadsheet import.](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/legend-details.png) Choose a colour for the extra detail lines, check the preview, then apply it to the legend. Select a numbered circle to read its explanation. ## 1. Show extra text Controls whether the saved notes are displayed beneath the names. Switching it off hides the notes; it does not erase the text you have entered. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=legend-details#legend-details--show) ## 2. Choose the extra text colour Click the colour square to choose a font colour for the extra detail lines beneath every legend name. The preview shows your choice straight away. Territory names and statistical totals keep their existing colours. Choose Apply to legend to use the new colour, then save your map to keep it. Cancel or the close button leaves the previous colour in place. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=legend-details#legend-details--colour) ## 3. Choose an entry Select a territory in the entry list, or use the previous and next buttons to work through the key. The text box and preview show the selected entry. This is handy when adding a telephone number for every team. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=legend-details#legend-details--entry) ## 4. Write one detail per line Type or paste the lines to appear below that name. Use short, readable lines; up to 20 nonblank lines and 4,000 characters are accepted per entry. A postcode here is printed as text only. It does not colour or locate that postcode. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=legend-details#legend-details--text) ## 5. Clear this entry Removes the draft extra text for the selected entry. Other entries keep their own notes. Apply the dialog to make that removal appear on the map. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=legend-details#legend-details--clear) ## 6. Paste details from Excel Put the existing territory name in the first column, then one detail per following column. Paste the table into the import box. Names must match entries already in the key; check the import feedback for any unmatched names. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=legend-details#legend-details--paste) ## 7. Replace existing details, including blanks Use this option when the spreadsheet should become the new set of notes, rather than retaining previous text. Blank values can clear existing notes when replacement is selected, so check your pasted rows first. Then use Add to these details to load the table into the dialog. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=legend-details#legend-details--replace) ## 8. Check the preview Review the selected name and its notes before applying. Long lines can make a key wide; splitting an address over a few short lines is often easier to read. Statistics selected in Additional Data are separate from these manually entered notes. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=legend-details#legend-details--preview) ## 9. Apply to legend / Cancel Apply to legend commits the dialog’s changes to the current map. Cancel or the close button leaves the map’s existing notes unchanged. Save the map afterwards if you want the new notes to be there when you reopen it. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=legend-details#legend-details--apply) ## Related guides - [Key Settings: layout & visibility](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=key) - [Excel import with your own colours](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=excel-colours) - [Additional Data: add your own figures](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=data) --- # Map Titles: title & key heading Official GBMaps guide for the classic map maker. VectorMaps has a different interface. Source: https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=titles Updated: 2026-09-29 A useful title says what the colours mean. “Sales territories — September” tells a reader more than “Map Title”. [Watch tutorial video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LhVZAWBvrmk) Some videos show an earlier layout. The written instructions below describe the current controls; this is a guide, not a video transcript. ![Map Titles: title & key heading — current GBMaps controls](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/titles.png) The current panel, with its options expanded where useful. Select a numbered circle to read its explanation. ## 1. Map title Edit this box to change the title across the top of the page. It updates on the artwork as you type. The field allows up to 55 characters. The title is easiest to judge in Print View, where the title bar is visible. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=titles#titles--map) ## 2. Key heading Changes the heading above the key entries, for example “Regional contacts” or “Delivery zones”. The field allows up to 35 characters. Keep it short if you want a compact key. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=titles#titles--heading) ## 3. The saved map name is separate The name entered under Save identifies the editable map in your file list. Changing the map title or key heading does not automatically rename that file. Use meaningful wording in both places so the artwork and saved copy are easy to recognise. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=titles#titles--filename) ## Related guides - [Map Colours: page, labels & boundaries](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=colours) - [Key Settings: layout & visibility](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=key) - [Save, open & keep a separate copy](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=save) --- # Map Colours: page, labels & boundaries Official GBMaps guide for the classic map maker. VectorMaps has a different interface. Source: https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=colours Updated: 2026-09-29 These controls change the supporting artwork. Territory colours are changed beside their names in START HERE or in the map key. [Watch tutorial video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=axV9l7lKqmc) Some videos show an earlier layout. The written instructions below describe the current controls; this is a guide, not a video transcript. ![Map Colours: page, labels & boundaries — current GBMaps controls](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/colours.png) The current panel, with its options expanded where useful. Select a numbered circle to read its explanation. ## 1. Map Background Changes the page/map background behind the polygons. A pale background keeps the territories prominent; a white background often suits a printed report. Click the swatch row to open the palette. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=colours#colours--background) ## 2. Map Border Changes the outer page border colour. It does not change the lines between postcode areas. Those have their own controls below. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=colours#colours--border) ## 3. Map Title Text and Title Background Set the lettering and bar behind the page title separately. Choose enough contrast for the title to remain readable at its final printed size. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=colours#colours--title) ## 4. Map Labels Text and District / Sector Labels Change the lettering for the main map labels and the more detailed postcode labels separately. Mixed-boundary maps can also offer County Names, ICB Names or a similar extra layer. Only controls relevant to your map are shown. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=colours#colours--labels) ## 5. Area, District and other boundaries Changes line colours for each available boundary layer. A darker outer area line and a lighter district line can make a busy map easier to understand. Change line thickness or hide a layer in Map details. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=colours#colours--boundaries) ## 6. Reset colours Returns the page background, title, border, map label and boundary colours controlled here to their defaults. It is a reset of the supporting map styling, not a command to delete all your territory names and assignments. Save a copy first if you may want to return to your previous styling. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=colours#colours--reset) ## Related guides - [Choose a colour](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=palette) - [Map details: boundaries & place labels](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=details) - [START HERE: names, colours & territories](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=colouring) - [Map Titles: title & key heading](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=titles) --- # Choose a colour Official GBMaps guide for the classic map maker. VectorMaps has a different interface. Source: https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=palette Updated: 2026-09-29 The palette is used by territory squares and by many appearance controls. Check which item you clicked before choosing a new colour. [Watch tutorial video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=axV9l7lKqmc) Some videos show an earlier layout. The written instructions below describe the current controls; this is a guide, not a video transcript. ![Choose a colour — current GBMaps controls](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/palette.png) The current panel, with its options expanded where useful. Select a numbered circle to read its explanation. ## 1. Click a swatch Applies that swatch to the item whose colour control you opened. For a territory, all its assigned polygons follow the new colour. For a line or title control, only that part of the artwork changes. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=palette#palette--choose) ## 2. Browse the colour families Use the arranged shades to choose related colours, or a strong contrasting colour for something that needs to stand out. Pale fills with darker borders usually keep small labels more legible than very dark fills. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=palette#palette--families) ## 3. Close the palette Use its close control when you have finished or opened it by mistake. Opening a colour control is not itself a colour change. On smaller screens, move or scroll the palette as needed to reach the swatches. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=palette#palette--close) ## 4. Exact colours for imported data The advanced import dialogs accept colour names or hex values where their column guide says so. A hex value such as #E8AC25 is useful when the same brand colour must be repeated. The Excel territory import has its own colour-name catalogue; use names from that catalogue for predictable results. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=palette#palette--imports) ## Related guides - [Map Colours: page, labels & boundaries](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=colours) - [START HERE: names, colours & territories](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=colouring) - [Marker Boxes: labelled places](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=markers) - [Create Dots: postcode locations](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=dots) --- # Map details: boundaries & place labels Official GBMaps guide for the classic map maker. VectorMaps has a different interface. Source: https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=details Updated: 2026-09-29 Keep the detail that helps your reader and hide what gets in the way. The available rows depend on the map’s actual layers. [Watch tutorial video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T8Ln7HnGfw4) Some videos show an earlier layout. The written instructions below describe the current controls; this is a guide, not a video transcript. ![Map details: boundaries & place labels — current GBMaps controls](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/details.png) The current panel, with its options expanded where useful. Select a numbered circle to read its explanation. ## Before hiding ![A Yorkshire map with green and blue territories, surrounded by uncoloured postcode shapes, town and village names and boundary lines.](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/example-unassigned-before.png) The green and blue shapes belong to our zones. With Hide unassigned areas off, the surrounding postcode shapes and place labels are still visible. Compare this with After hiding: the map position, scale, zone colours and selected detail layers are the same. ## After hiding ![The same Yorkshire map at the same scale, with surrounding unassigned shapes and labels hidden. The two coloured territories and their relevant map detail remain.](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/example-unassigned-after.png) Hide unassigned areas keeps the assigned territory and the useful detail within it, including relevant place labels and parts of wider boundaries. It hides the surrounding artwork rather than deleting it. Use the same control again to restore the full map. ## 1. Borders: show or hide each layer Tick Borders for Areas, Districts, Sectors, Counties or the other layers offered by your map. Untick to hide those lines without removing the polygons or territory assignments. Showing an area border and hiding the district borders can make an overview much cleaner. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=details#details--borders) ## 2. Width: set line thickness Choose a line width for each boundary layer. Use heavier lines for the broad divisions and finer lines for small districts. Review the result at the scale you intend to print; a line that looks fine when zoomed in may dominate a small graphic. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=details#details--width) ## 3. Labels: independent from borders Tick Labels for a layer to show its names/codes. You can show labels without boundary lines or lines without labels. District and sector labels get crowded on a national view; they are more useful on a regional crop. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=details#details--labels) ## 4. Hide unassigned areas Focuses the map on the polygons assigned to territories and the relevant surrounding map detail. It hides unwanted artwork rather than deleting it. See the dedicated topic for how labels, broad boundaries and the Google preview are treated. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=details#details--hide) ## 5. Towns, villages and cities: Names The Names column controls settlement names separately for each available class. Start with cities and add towns or villages if the local detail helps the reader. These labels are part of the map artwork; they are not marker boxes you created. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=details#details--names) ## 6. Towns, villages and cities: Dots The Dots column controls the point symbols independently of their names. You can keep names while hiding dots or use dots without names. These are built-in place dots, separate from the postcode dots created in Create Dots. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=details#details--dots) ## 7. Open or close a group Click a section heading such as Borders & labels or Places to fold its controls away. Folding a group only tidies the panel; it does not switch off its map layers. Extra rows such as Outer labels appear only on maps that contain that detail. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=details#details--groups) ## Related guides - [Show only your assigned territories](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=hide-unassigned) - [Regions, London & inset maps](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=regions) - [Roads, land & specialist map layers](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=roads) - [Map Colours: page, labels & boundaries](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=colours) --- # Show only your assigned territories Official GBMaps guide for the classic map maker. VectorMaps has a different interface. Source: https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=hide-unassigned Updated: 2026-09-29 Use Hide unassigned areas when you have coloured the part of the country that matters and want everything else out of the way. It is especially useful for a regional sales or service map. [Watch tutorial video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T8Ln7HnGfw4) Some videos show an earlier layout. The written instructions below describe the current controls; this is a guide, not a video transcript. ![Show only your assigned territories — current GBMaps controls](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/details.png) The current panel, with its options expanded where useful. Select a numbered circle to read its explanation. ## Before hiding ![A Yorkshire map with green and blue territories, surrounded by uncoloured postcode shapes, town and village names and boundary lines.](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/example-unassigned-before.png) The green and blue shapes belong to our zones. With Hide unassigned areas off, the surrounding postcode shapes and place labels are still visible. Compare this with After hiding: the map position, scale, zone colours and selected detail layers are the same. ## After hiding ![The same Yorkshire map at the same scale, with surrounding unassigned shapes and labels hidden. The two coloured territories and their relevant map detail remain.](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/example-unassigned-after.png) Hide unassigned areas keeps the assigned territory and the useful detail within it, including relevant place labels and parts of wider boundaries. It hides the surrounding artwork rather than deleting it. Use the same control again to restore the full map. ## 1. Assign the area you want to keep Create your zone names in START HERE. Select a zone by clicking its name in the legend, then click the shapes on the map that you want to keep in that territory. Repeat for any other zones before hiding unassigned areas. The tool checks which shapes belong to a zone, rather than simply which ones look coloured: a shape deliberately assigned a white fill still belongs to its territory. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=hide-unassigned#hide-unassigned--assign) ## 2. Click Hide unassigned areas The tool keeps the assigned polygons and limits other map detail to the useful territory footprint. It considers the broader boundaries and place labels/dots as well as the small polygons, so an area boundary is not discarded just because you coloured districts within it. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=hide-unassigned#hide-unassigned--enable) ## 3. Choose which kinds of detail remain The normal Map details switches still matter. If town names were already hidden, this setting does not turn them on. Start with the details you want, then use Hide unassigned areas to restrict their geographic extent. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=hide-unassigned#hide-unassigned--layers) ## 4. Show the full map again Use the same button to restore unassigned artwork. Your territory colours remain. If everything disappears, check that you have actually assigned polygons to a territory, and that the relevant regions and layers are enabled. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=hide-unassigned#hide-unassigned--restore) ## 5. Save the focused view Save the map after changing the setting. Reopening retains the setting with the rest of the map. Older saved maps that never used it retain their normal full-map behaviour until you choose to enable it. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=hide-unassigned#hide-unassigned--save) ## 6. What happens in On Google The polygon overlay shows only assigned polygons when this setting is on. The geographic background remains available, so roads and places on that background can still be seen outside your territories. Return to Design or Print View to change the setting, then reopen On Google. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=hide-unassigned#hide-unassigned--google) ## Related guides - [START HERE: names, colours & territories](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=colouring) - [Regions, London & inset maps](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=regions) - [On Google: explore the geographic preview](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=google) - [Save, open & keep a separate copy](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=save) --- # Regions, London & inset maps Official GBMaps guide for the classic map maker. VectorMaps has a different interface. Source: https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=regions Updated: 2026-09-29 An inset is a separate, enlarged view of part of the map. Use it to show dense detail such as London without enlarging the entire country. [Watch tutorial video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T8Ln7HnGfw4) Some videos show an earlier layout. The written instructions below describe the current controls; this is a guide, not a video transcript. ![Regions, London & inset maps — current GBMaps controls](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/regions.png) The current panel, with its options expanded where useful. Select a numbered circle to read its explanation. ## 1. Show or hide regions Tick the countries or regions you want included. UK maps can offer England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland, the Republic of Ireland, the Isle of Man and the Channel Islands. The list reflects what is present in that map; a switch cannot add a region that the map does not contain. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=regions#regions--countries) ## 2. London Inset Shows or hides the separate London view. When it is available, choose Top right or Bottom left for its position. Check that the inset does not clash with your key or other annotations. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=regions#regions--london) ## 3. Show inset frames Shows the boxes around the inset maps, helping readers distinguish them from the main geography. Untick for a cleaner composition if the separation is already obvious. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=regions#regions--frames) ## 4. Show ULEZ boundary Adds the ULEZ boundary layer where supplied by the map. Its width control adjusts the line. This is a reference layer in the artwork, not a live vehicle eligibility or charging check. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=regions#regions--ulez) ## 5. Other regional and inset choices NHS maps can offer named health regions and a London inset. Northern Ireland maps can offer separate top-left and top-right views. Other country maps show their own region switches, such as Australia and Tasmania. Each switch shows or hides that supplied group; the rest of the controls work in the same way. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=regions#regions--variants) ## 6. Imported locations in London Advanced dots and marker imports have their own choices for putting London locations on the inset or main map. If a location seems missing or appears twice, check both the inset visibility here and the placement option in the import dialog. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=regions#regions--locations) ## Related guides - [Add an inset from this map or another saved map](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=live-inset) - [Map details: boundaries & place labels](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=details) - [Show only your assigned territories](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=hide-unassigned) - [Advanced dots & shapes: every column](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=advanced-dots) - [Advanced marker import: every column](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=advanced-markers) --- # Add an inset from this map or another saved map Official GBMaps guide for the classic map maker. VectorMaps has a different interface. Source: https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=live-inset Updated: 2026-09-29 Show a busy part of your map in more detail, or bring in another map from your account. Each inset has its own position, size, view and background colour. It can follow the map you are editing immediately, or follow the latest saved version of a different map. ![Linked inset controls with a saved district map chosen as the source](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/linked-inset-panel.png) Choose another saved map, refresh its artwork and adjust the frame without changing the original. Select a numbered circle for instructions. ## The whole map and a closer look ![The UK district map shows a small gold territory in North Yorkshire. A larger inset at the bottom right shows its district boundaries and labels in detail.](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/example-live-inset.png) Both views show the same gold territories. The main map gives their national position; the inset makes the local boundaries easier to read. Colouring or changing map details on the main map updates both views. The inset has its own warm cream background; the main map keeps its blue background. ## Choose another saved map ![GBMaps saved-map picker with a district map selected, showing its name, map type, orientation and saved date](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/example-linked-map-picker.png) Search your own saved maps, select one and choose Use this map. Its latest saved artwork becomes the inset. Cancel leaves your current map as it is. ## An area overview with a district inset ![A UK postcode area map with an inset of a separately saved postcode district map coloured purple around Yorkshire](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/example-linked-inset.png) The main map shows postcode areas; the inset shows finer district boundaries from another saved map. Its cream background, close-up view and frame belong to this page. Edit and save the source map to update its colours. ## 1. Add a live inset Open Regions & Insets and choose Add inset map. A small second view appears near the bottom-left of the page. It starts at the centre and zoom of your main map. Use it for a city close-up, an island or an overview of your territories. You can add one custom inset to each map. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=live-inset#live-inset--add) ## 2. Use another saved map Choose another saved map opens a small map picker. Search by name, region or map type, select a row, then choose Use this map. The list shows each saved map’s name, type, page orientation and saved date when available. Only maps in your own account are listed; a map type needs an active licence before you can use it. For example, put a detailed postcode district map inside a postcode area overview. The source map itself is not changed. You can use one custom inset on the page, so choosing a different source replaces its artwork but keeps its frame and background. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=live-inset#live-inset--source) ## 3. Update the artwork without disturbing the inset Open source map opens the original in a separate tab. Make your changes there and save it, then return to this map. The inset checks for updates when you return, when you reopen the host map, and once a minute while its tab is visible. Refresh checks straight away. Your inset keeps its position, size, zoom, background and caption. Unsaved edits in the source tab do not appear in the inset. The link works for normal map features, including saved drive-time shapes; it does not request a new drive-time calculation. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=live-inset#live-inset--refresh) ## 4. Show or hide the inset without losing it Untick Show inset to hide it from the page and from PDF, PNG, JPG, SVG and PowerPoint downloads. Its position, zoom, size, caption and colours are kept. Tick the box again to bring it back in the same place, showing the latest source artwork. Save your map to remember whether the inset is shown or hidden next time you open it. This also works when its position is locked. Use Remove inset only when you want to remove its settings as well. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=live-inset#live-inset--visible) ## 5. Give it a short title Type a caption such as Leeds in detail or National overview, then press Tab or click outside the box. Leave it empty for a frame without a heading. The title belongs to the inset; it does not change your main map title. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=live-inset#live-inset--title) ## 6. Move, pan and resize Choose Position inset to show its blue strip and handles. Drag the blue strip to move the whole frame around the page. Drag inside the picture to pan the map within the frame. Drag a corner or side handle to change its size and shape. Click Finish positioning, press Escape or click elsewhere when you are happy. Clicking inside an unlocked inset also shows its handles. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=live-inset#live-inset--position) ## 7. Zoom into the detail you need With the pointer over the inset, roll the mouse wheel to zoom towards the pointer. On a touch screen, pinch with two fingers. The minus and plus buttons in the sidebar zoom around the centre. The main map stays where it is. Enlarging an area map does not add district or sector boundaries that are not present in that map. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=live-inset#live-inset--zoom) ## 8. Choose a useful starting view For an inset of this map, Use main view centres it on the main view. For a linked map, Use saved view fits the source map’s saved page view inside the inset. You can then pan and zoom independently. Fit whole map in inset fits the whole source artwork, including any supplied regional insets. Hidden unassigned areas stay hidden; fit uses the source map’s full extent. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=live-inset#live-inset--view) ## 9. Choose the frame and proportions Frame colour changes the outline. Keep frame proportions holds its current width-to-height ratio while you resize. Without that option you can make a tall, wide or square frame. Changing the frame shape reveals a different amount of geography; it never stretches the map. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=live-inset#live-inset--frame) ## 10. Lock the finished inset Tick Lock inset position & zoom to prevent accidental panning, zooming or resizing. Untick it to adjust the frame again. You can still change its caption, frame and background colours. A linked inset still receives saved artwork updates while locked. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=live-inset#live-inset--lock) ## 11. Colour once; see it in both views For an inset of this map, colouring shapes on the main map immediately changes the inset too. Territory colours, labels, boundaries, markers, dots, rings and other geographical artwork follow the main map. For another saved map, these details come from that map’s latest saved version instead. The source’s page title, legend and custom inset are not included. Your inset has its own optional title. Neither kind adds extra postcodes or values to the main map’s legend. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=live-inset#live-inset--live) ## 12. Save, reopen and download Save the editable map to keep its inset, caption, frame and background colours, size, position, zoom, visibility and lock settings. These are stored with the map in your account and restored when you reopen it. When Show inset is ticked, the inset also appears in PDF, PNG, JPG, SVG and PowerPoint downloads; blue editing handles are left out. Your usual map access is required for downloads. This is a page-layout feature for Design and Print View; it is not added to the separate On Google map. A linked inset stores a reference to its source map, so reopening it picks up that source’s latest saved artwork. Previously downloaded files remain unchanged. Keep the source map in your account if you want the link to continue working. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=live-inset#live-inset--save) ## 13. Undo a change or remove the inset Use the existing Undo and Redo buttons at the top of the map for inset moves, pans, zooms, resizing, title or colour changes, showing or hiding, and removal. A continuous drag counts as one change. Remove inset removes this extra view from the page, leaving the main map and its colouring intact. Undo can bring it back during the current editing session. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=live-inset#live-inset--undo) ## 14. Use the keyboard Choose Position inset to focus the frame. Arrow keys pan the map inside it; Shift with an arrow moves the frame. Plus and minus zoom. Escape hides the editing handles. You can also reach the sidebar controls with Tab. Keyboard movement is disabled while the inset is locked. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=live-inset#live-inset--keys) ## 15. Give the inset its own background colour Click the Background colour swatch and choose a colour for the space around the inset map. A new inset starts with the same background as the main map; after that, each keeps its own colour. For example, keep a blue background on the main map and choose white for a close-up. This does not recolour your territories or change the white title strip. You can change the background while the inset is locked. It is saved with the editable map and included in your downloads. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=live-inset#live-inset--background) ## 16. Return to a live view of this map Use this map switches the inset back to the map you are editing. The frame, caption and background are retained, and the view starts from the main map again. Undo can restore the previous source. The supplied London and regional inset switches below these controls still work separately. Older saved maps keep their existing behaviour. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=live-inset#live-inset--switch-source) ## 17. If the source map cannot be opened A message in the inset controls explains the problem. The source may have been deleted or transferred, its licence may need renewal, or your connection or sign-in may have ended. If a preview was already loaded in this editing session it stays visible, but saving or downloading a visible incomplete or unverified inset is stopped. Refresh after fixing the problem, choose another saved map, switch to Use this map, or untick Show inset to save or download the main map without it. Hiding keeps the link and frame settings for later. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=live-inset#live-inset--unavailable) ## Related guides - [Regions, London & inset maps](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=regions) - [Move, zoom & frame the map](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=map-gestures) - [Show only your assigned territories](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=hide-unassigned) - [How to download your map as PDF, PNG, SVG or PowerPoint](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=downloads) --- # Shapes & Text: draw, highlight and explain your map Official GBMaps guide for the classic map maker. VectorMaps has a different interface. Source: https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=shapes-text Updated: 2026-09-29 Show a planned visit, outline a patch that crosses postcode boundaries, mark a meeting point with a star, or add a note for the person reading your map. Shapes & Text lets you do all of this without changing your territories or their totals. You can try every drawing tool before buying or signing in. ## Quick tips - **Move the map** Drag an empty part of the map. Scroll to zoom in or out. - **Pan over a shape** Hold Space and drag, or drag with the middle mouse button. - **Move your artwork** Drag the shape itself. Pull a blue square handle to resize it. - **Keep drawing as you explore** Click to add a point; drag to pan. Your earlier points stay in place on the map. ![Shapes and Text with drawing and map-area copying tools](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/shapes-text-palette.png) Drag the green heading to move the panel out of your way. Select a numbered circle to read about that control. You can pan and zoom the map while these tools are open. ## A visit plan with your own finishing touches ![A North Yorkshire postcode map with a blue click-drawn line joining three example stops, a gold star, a translucent green custom polygon, an orange rectangle, a purple copy of the YO17 boundary and a visit note. Beside the map are explanations and all six ready-made shapes.](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/shapes-text-map.png) Draw a line between stops, mark an extra patch, frame a place or copy a boundary. Add a note to explain the plan. This example uses the actual drawing tools, including Star, Rectangle, Draw line, Draw polygon and Copy outline. The blue line is a hand-drawn plan, not a calculated road route. For smaller text, choose View larger. ## 1. Add a shape or text box Open Shapes & Text in the left-hand menu. Choose a shape symbol, or Add a text box. Hover over a symbol to see its name: Circle, Square, Rectangle, Star, Triangle or Hexagon. Your item appears with blue handles and a green tool panel. The panel stays open as you work; drag its green heading to move it out of your way. Rectangle starts wider than it is tall. Untick Keep proportions to turn a circle into an oval or stretch another shape. For a measured radius in miles, use Radial Circles instead. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=shapes-text#shapes-text--add) ## 2. Pan and zoom while the drawing tools are open Drag an empty part of the map to pan it, and scroll your mouse wheel over the map to zoom in or out. On a touch screen, drag empty map space with one finger. This works while you are adding points, choosing a map area to copy, or adjusting a finished shape. A drag moves the map; a click adds a point or picks an area. Panning keeps your selected item selected. Territory colouring is paused until you finish editing, so moving around will not recolour your map. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=shapes-text#shapes-text--navigate) ## 3. Hold Space to pan through a shape If a shape covers the bit of map you want to grab, hold the Space bar, drag with the left mouse button, then let go of Space. The map moves behind your artwork instead of dragging the shape. Dragging with the middle mouse button does the same thing. Without Space, dragging a shape moves that shape; dragging empty map space pans the map. The Space shortcut works when you are not typing in a text field. Scrolling still zooms when your pointer is over a shape. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=shapes-text#shapes-text--space-pan) ## 4. Draw a line (polyline) or a filled polygon Choose Draw line for an open line, or Draw polygon for an enclosed patch. Click once at each bend or corner on the map page; a blue preview shows where the next section will go. A line can mark a connection, a dividing line or a rough visit plan. It is drawn by you, not calculated along roads. A polygon is useful for a proposed service patch that does not follow existing boundaries. Drag to pan or scroll to zoom whenever you need a closer look: earlier points stay with their map locations, and dragging does not add a point. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=shapes-text#shapes-text--draw) ## 5. Finish a drawing, undo a point or start again Choose Finish or press Enter after your last point. You can also double-click the last point; for a polygon, clicking its first point closes the shape. A line needs at least two points. A polygon needs at least three that enclose an area. While drawing, Undo point, Backspace or Delete removes the latest point. Cancel or Escape discards the unfinished drawing. You can place up to 200 points in one line or polygon. Finish the drawing before moving to another menu or view. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=shapes-text#shapes-text--finish-line) ## 6. Adjust the bends and corners afterwards Select your finished line or polygon. Drag a blue round point to move that individual bend or corner, or drag the item itself to move the whole drawing. The blue square corner handles resize the whole item. Change its line colour and thickness in the panel; a filled polygon also has fill colour and opacity controls. New lines and polygons move and zoom with the map by default. Choose Fixed to the page under Position & size if you want a diagram or decoration that stays in one place on the paper. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=shapes-text#shapes-text--reshape) ## 7. Copy the outline of a postcode or boundary area Choose Copy outline, then click inside the map area you want to highlight. The tool copies its boundary into a separate shape, including detached pieces such as islands and any holes. It starts as an unfilled outline attached to the map. Choose its line colour and thickness, or increase Fill opacity to shade it. The original territory and its assignment stay as they were. This is a copy of the boundary at the time you click, not a live link to the original polygon: changing a territory colour later will not change the copied shape. You can move and resize the copy, but it does not have individual point handles. For exceptionally detailed boundaries, the tool may ask you to use Box around area instead of saving an incomplete outline. You can drag to pan or scroll to zoom while choosing an area; only a click copies it. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=shapes-text#shapes-text--outline) ## 8. Put a rectangle around a map area Choose Box around area, then click inside the area you want to frame. A clear rectangle is fitted around the whole area, including any separate pieces, with a small gap around its edges. It starts attached to the map so it follows the same location when you pan or zoom. Change its line colour and thickness, add a translucent fill if useful, or drag its handles to adjust the frame. Use this for a simple highlight when the exact boundary would be too busy. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=shapes-text#shapes-text--area-box) ## 9. Choose the item you want to change While editing, click an item on the page or choose it from Your shapes & text. The list is useful when items overlap. It shows a short extract of each text box and whether the item belongs to the page or the map. The controls beneath it apply only to that selected item. Click an empty part of the page to clear the selection. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=shapes-text#shapes-text--select) ## 10. Fixed to the page, or attached to the map? Choose Fixed to the page for a heading, contact details or a note that should stay put while you adjust the map behind it. Choose Moves and zooms with the map for a highlight over a location: it follows that location as you pan and grows as you zoom in. Ready-made shapes and text start fixed to the page; drawn lines, polygons, copied outlines and boxes around areas start attached to the map. Switching this setting keeps the item in the same visible place and at the same visible size. It changes what happens when you next pan or zoom. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=shapes-text#shapes-text--anchor) ## 11. Write a heading, explanation or list Choose Add a text box, replace Your text here with your own words, and press Enter wherever you want a new paragraph or list line. Paste plain text from another document if that is easier. The text wraps automatically inside the box, including long references. A narrower box produces more lines; it grows downwards when necessary so those lines are not cut off. This is a plain text box with formatting for the whole box, not a word processor with different styles within one paragraph. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=shapes-text#shapes-text--text) ## 12. Choose a font and size Choose Sans serif, Serif or Typewriter and adjust Size until the text is comfortable to read on your page. Dragging a text box corner changes its space and wrapping, not its font size. A box attached to the map will also grow or shrink with the map zoom. Saving and reopening retains your wording, font and size. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=shapes-text#shapes-text--font) ## 13. Bold, italic, underline and text colour Use B, I and U to switch bold, italic and underline on or off. A green button indicates an active style. Text colour changes the letters independently of the box fill and outline, so you can have dark text over a pale, partly transparent background. The text stays opaque when you reduce the background fill opacity. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=shapes-text#shapes-text--format) ## 14. Align the text Choose Left for ordinary notes and lists, Centre for a heading or short notice, or Right when the box needs to line up with the right edge of the page. The alignment applies to every wrapped line in the selected box. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=shapes-text#shapes-text--align) ## 15. Choose the fill and line colours Fill colour paints the inside of the selected shape or the background of a text box. Line colour changes its outline. Click a colour square to use your browser’s colour picker. Changing these colours leaves your territory colours, map background and legend alone. An open line has no inside to paint, so its fill controls are disabled; use Line colour and Line thickness instead. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=shapes-text#shapes-text--colours) ## 16. Let the map show through: fill opacity Move Fill opacity towards 0% for a lighter highlight. At 100% the fill is solid; at 0% it disappears completely. The outline and any text remain opaque, making it possible to draw a clear ring around an area without covering its labels. Overlapping translucent shapes naturally blend where they overlap. The same opacity is included in your exported artwork. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=shapes-text#shapes-text--opacity) ## 17. Set the outline thickness Increase Line thickness for a stronger outline, or set it to 0 for no outline. For an unboxed note, set both the line thickness and fill opacity to 0. When an item is attached to the map, its outline scales with it as you zoom. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=shapes-text#shapes-text--line) ## 18. Move and resize with the blue handles Click an item to select it, then drag inside it to move it. Pull a blue square corner to resize it. Keep proportions retains the width-to-height ratio; untick it to stretch the shape. Holding Shift while resizing also keeps a shape in proportion. Text boxes resize freely so their text can wrap. When you are not typing in a field, the arrow keys nudge the selected item; Shift with an arrow makes a larger nudge. A small movement while clicking is ignored, so selecting an item does not accidentally shift it. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=shapes-text#shapes-text--move) ## 19. Arrange overlapping items Bring forward moves the selected item one place above another drawing item. Send back moves it one place behind. The order applies within the same attachment type: page-fixed artwork sits above map-attached artwork. Use the item list to pick a shape hidden behind another. This does not reorder the map’s boundaries, legend or regional inset layers. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=shapes-text#shapes-text--order) ## 20. Duplicate, delete and undo Duplicate makes another copy with the same appearance, slightly offset so you can see it. Move the copy and change its words or colours as needed. Delete item removes the selected shape or text box only. The main Undo and Redo buttons also work with drawings, including moves, resizes, formatting and deletion. A map can hold up to 60 drawing items, with up to 2,500 characters in one text box. If the combined drawing detail and text become too large to save, the tool asks you to simplify them or remove an unused item instead of silently cutting anything off. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=shapes-text#shapes-text--copy-delete) ## 21. Finish editing and return to your territories Choose Done in the floating panel, or Finish editing in the sidebar, to return to your territories. The blue handles disappear and your artwork stops responding to clicks, so you can colour and move the map normally. Edit shapes & text lets you change it again. Escape also leaves editing mode when you are not typing or drawing. Another menu or view closes the tools: finish any line or polygon first, as an unfinished drawing is discarded when you leave this way. Your finished additions appear in Print View and Design, but not in the separate On Google preview. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=shapes-text#shapes-text--done) ## 22. Save, reopen and download Finish your drawing, then use the normal Save button to store it with your map. Every point in a line or polygon, copied boundary, position, page or map attachment, size, order, opacity and text setting is retained. Saving a copy includes its own independent copy of the artwork. The drawings are included in PDF, SVG, PNG, JPG and PowerPoint output; editing handles and the floating panel are left out. Text remains editable when you reopen your saved map in GBMaps. In downloads, the letters are vector outlines so wrapping and appearance do not depend on fonts installed on another computer; they are not directly editable text in a PDF or SVG editor. Trial users can try the editing controls, while the usual map licence is still needed for saving and downloads. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=shapes-text#shapes-text--save) ## 23. Drawings in inset maps A custom inset includes drawings that move with its source map. Page-fixed notes stay on the main page, keeping the inset clear of the original page’s headings and instructions. This works for an inset of the map you are editing and for a linked inset from another saved map in your account. Save changes to the source map and refresh the linked inset to show them. Hide unassigned areas does not erase your own drawing items. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=shapes-text#shapes-text--insets) ## Related guides - [Print View, Design & On Google](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=views) - [Move, zoom & frame the map](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=map-gestures) - [Portrait, landscape & square pages](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=orientation) - [Add an inset from this map or another saved map](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=live-inset) - [Save, open & keep a separate copy](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=save) - [How to download your map as PDF, PNG, SVG or PowerPoint](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=downloads) --- # Images: add a logo, photograph or illustration Official GBMaps guide for the classic map maker. VectorMaps has a different interface. Source: https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=page-images Updated: 2026-09-29 Add a recognisable logo, a depot photograph or an illustration. Keep it fixed to the printed page, or attach it to the map so it moves with that location. Try it without signing in; an active map licence is needed to save it in your account. ![Images: add a logo, photograph or illustration — controls in the mapping tool](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/page-images-panel.png) The current panel. Select a numbered circle to read about that control. ## 1. Drop an image or choose a file Open Images in the left menu. Drop a PNG, JPEG or WebP file into the marked box, or use Choose images. You can add several files together, up to five images on a map. Each file must be no larger than 3 MB. If a very large or heavily compressed picture cannot be prepared within that limit, resize it before trying again. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=page-images#page-images--upload) ## 2. Choose the picture to edit Click a picture directly on the map to select it. Its dotted blue frame and four corner handles appear, and the Images controls open automatically. You can start dragging it straight away. You can also choose its name or thumbnail in the list, which is handy if pictures overlap. New images are selected as soon as you add them. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=page-images#page-images--select) ## 3. Move and resize Drag a picture to move it. Drag a blue corner to resize its frame. Hold Shift to keep its proportions; a circular frame does this automatically. Resizing crops the picture rather than stretching it. Scroll over the map to zoom; a map-fixed image follows the map and a page-fixed image stays put. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=page-images#page-images--move) ## 4. Keep it on the page or with the map Choose Page for a company logo or photograph that should stay in the same place and at the same size while you pan and zoom. Choose Map for artwork that belongs to a particular location: it then moves and scales with the map. Switching between the two preserves the image’s current position and size. Each image has its own setting, saved with the map. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=page-images#page-images--anchor) ## 5. Choose which part of the picture shows Increase Crop zoom to bring the subject closer. Crop left / right and Crop up / down move the picture inside its frame. These sliders change the crop, not the frame position. Reset crop returns to the centred, fitted picture without moving or resizing the frame. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=page-images#page-images--crop) ## 6. Choose the shape and border Choose Rectangle or Circle. Frame colour and Thickness control the outline. A thickness of 0 removes it. Transparent parts of a PNG or WebP let the map show through; the tool does not add a white box behind them. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=page-images#page-images--frame) ## 7. Hide, finish editing or remove Untick Show to hide a picture without losing its crop or position. Tick it again to bring it back. Finish editing images removes the handles. Remove takes that image off this map; it does not delete the picture from another saved copy. Undo can restore an item you removed. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=page-images#page-images--hide) ## 8. Save privately and download Save stores the image privately in your account together with the map’s position, page/map setting, crop, visibility and frame. A saved copy can reuse the same image with a different layout. PDF, SVG, PNG, JPG and PowerPoint downloads include the image itself, so the recipient does not need to sign in to see it. Wait for images to finish loading before exporting. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=page-images#page-images--save) ## Related guides - [Shapes & Text: draw, highlight and explain your map](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=shapes-text) - [Portrait, landscape & square pages](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=orientation) - [Save, open & keep a separate copy](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=save) - [How to download your map as PDF, PNG, SVG or PowerPoint](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=downloads) --- # Roads, land & specialist map layers Official GBMaps guide for the classic map maker. VectorMaps has a different interface. Source: https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=roads Updated: 2026-09-29 Road and mixed-boundary maps contain extra layers. They appear in Map details only when that map includes them. Use the names below to decide what is worth keeping in the finished artwork. [Watch tutorial video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T8Ln7HnGfw4) Some videos show an earlier layout. The written instructions below describe the current controls; this is a guide, not a video transcript. ![Roads, land & specialist map layers — current GBMaps controls](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/roads.png) Postcode-and-roads example. Other road maps offer additional land and name layers described below. ## 1. Road lines A Roads, Main A Roads / Primary A Roads, Other A Roads and Motorways control the corresponding road line groups. Turning off minor roads while retaining the main routes often makes territory colours easier to see. A road layer here is artwork, not a route calculation. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=roads#roads--road-lines) ## 2. Road numbers and junctions Road Numbers, Main A Rd. Nums, A Road Numbers, Primary Road Numbers and Motorway Numbers control the text labels for the relevant routes. Junction Numbers shows junction identifiers; Junction Number Circles and Road Num. Borders control their surrounding symbols where present. Labels and road lines can be switched separately. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=roads#roads--road-numbers) ## 3. Land, parks and built-up areas Land, Parks & Forests and Urban Areas show their respective background fills. If these compete with the colours of your territories, hide one layer at a time and compare the result. Park Names has a separate switch on maps that include it. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=roads#roads--land) ## 4. Water, coastline and railways Water & Lakes controls water features; Water Names controls their labels. Coastline draws the coast outline, and Railways draws the railway layer. Retain them when they help someone recognise the region; hide them when they add unnecessary clutter. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=roads#roads--water) ## 5. Specialist name layers Other Names, Other Town Names, Primary Town Names and Urban Town Names are separate name groups supplied with road maps. Outer labels on some health maps are names placed outside crowded boundaries. Their visibility does not change which polygons belong to a territory. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=roads#roads--place-names) ## 6. County, council, ICS and ICB layers A mixed map can show postcode polygons with another administrative boundary over them. Use that layer’s Borders, Width and Labels controls independently. Colouring a postcode district and showing an ICB outline are different operations; the outline supplies context for your territory. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=roads#roads--mixed) ## Related guides - [Map details: boundaries & place labels](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=details) - [Regions, London & inset maps](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=regions) - [More Maps: find the right boundaries](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=more) --- # Radial Circles: distance rings Official GBMaps guide for the classic map maker. VectorMaps has a different interface. Source: https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=circles Updated: 2026-09-29 Draw equally spaced circles around a depot, office or other centre. These are straight-line distances. Use Distance/Time when road travel matters. [Watch tutorial video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W4-LXbJ53kI) Some videos show an earlier layout. The written instructions below describe the current controls; this is a guide, not a video transcript. ![Radial Circles: distance rings — current GBMaps controls](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/coverage-circles.png) Current controls. Select a numbered marker for its explanation. ## Distance rings on the map ![Three concentric circles over Yorkshire share one centre. Blue, green and rust-coloured rings are labelled 5 miles, 10 miles and 15 miles.](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/example-circles.png) A set of three rings with a 5-mile interval gives radii of 5, 10 and 15 miles from the same centre. The labels and line colours make the distances easy to distinguish. These are straight-line distances, so they are useful for a radius-based service area; use Distance/Time for a journey-based view. ## 1. Show all circles Shows or hides all the circle sets without deleting them. A hidden set retains its centre, colours and labels. Placing a centre makes the circles visible so you can see what you are positioning. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=circles#circles--show) ## 2. Circle set Selects the set you are editing. Each set has its own centre. Use + to add another set, or the … menu for rename, duplicate and other set options. A separate topic explains linked settings. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=circles#circles--set) ## 3. Place centre on map Tick it, then click the map where the centre should sit. Another click moves the same selected set; it does not add another set. Turn placement off when the centre is correct, so subsequent clicks can be used for normal map editing. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=circles#circles--place) ## 4. Find a centre by postcode Enter a postcode and click Find to position the selected set accurately. Supported postcode/ZIP lookup depends on the map. A full postcode is more precise than a broad district. Check the centre on the map before using the results. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=circles#circles--postcode) ## 5. Number of circles Sets how many rings are drawn, from 1 to 20. Four circles at a 10-mile interval produce radii of 10, 20, 30 and 40 miles. Reducing the count hides the extra rings; increasing it again can bring their settings back. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=circles#circles--number) ## 6. Interval in miles Sets the gap in radius between rings, from 1 to 100 miles. The outer-circle readout is the number of circles multiplied by this interval. These distances do not account for roads, rivers, traffic or travel time. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=circles#circles--interval) ## 7. Line width and label size Adjust the line width and the lettering on the circles. Use modest values when many rings overlap. The controls affect the selected set, or every set if linked settings are enabled. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=circles#circles--style) ## 8. A colour and label for each ring Each row shows its radius, a colour square and an editable label. Click the square to recolour that ring and type wording such as “Local delivery” or “20 miles”. Labels explain the rings; they do not change the distance calculation. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=circles#circles--labels) ## 9. Colour postcodes Turn the coverage into postcode territories with one click. Choose Add to existing to keep current colouring, or Replace colouring to start again from this coverage. The matching uses polygon centres; read the separate postcode-colouring guide for edge cases and overlaps. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=circles#circles--colour) ## Related guides - [Several circle centres & linked settings](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=circle-sets) - [Colour postcodes inside circles](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=circle-postcodes) - [Distance/Time: road-travel areas](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=travel) --- # Several circle centres & linked settings Official GBMaps guide for the classic map maker. VectorMaps has a different interface. Source: https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=circle-sets Updated: 2026-09-29 Use more than one set to compare depots or branches. Separate centres can share a common distance scale while keeping their positions independent. [Watch tutorial video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W4-LXbJ53kI) Some videos show an earlier layout. The written instructions below describe the current controls; this is a guide, not a video transcript. ![Several circle centres & linked settings — current GBMaps controls](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/coverage-circles.png) Current controls. Select a numbered marker for its explanation. ## Distance rings on the map ![Three concentric circles over Yorkshire share one centre. Blue, green and rust-coloured rings are labelled 5 miles, 10 miles and 15 miles.](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/example-circles.png) A set of three rings with a 5-mile interval gives radii of 5, 10 and 15 miles from the same centre. The labels and line colours make the distances easy to distinguish. These are straight-line distances, so they are useful for a radius-based service area; use Distance/Time for a journey-based view. ## 1. Choose the active set The Circle set list tells you which centre and rings the panel is editing. Select a set before moving its centre or changing its appearance. Use recognisable names so you do not move the wrong depot. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=circle-sets#circle-sets--choose) ## 2. Add a set with + Creates another circle set and selects it. Give it a centre using the map or postcode lookup. Adding a new set is different from clicking the map again in placement mode, which moves the existing selected set. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=circle-sets#circle-sets--add) ## 3. The … options menu Open it to rename the selected set, duplicate it or delete all sets. Renaming is for your own organisation. Duplicating is useful when a second depot needs similar circles: move the new set to its own centre afterwards. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=circle-sets#circle-sets--menu) ## 4. Rename, OK and cancel Choose Rename, enter a useful name, then confirm with OK. Cancel leaves the current name unchanged. The set name identifies it in the controls; the individual ring labels are edited separately. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=circle-sets#circle-sets--rename) ## 5. Use the same settings for all sets Links the ring settings across sets. The selected set’s settings are used as the common starting point; subsequent linked changes affect all sets. Centres remain independent. Leave linking off if the depots need different ring counts, distances or styling. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=circle-sets#circle-sets--linked) ## 6. Delete selected set / Delete all sets The panel’s delete button removes the selected set. Delete all sets in the options menu removes every set. Use Show all circles if you only want to hide them temporarily. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=circle-sets#circle-sets--delete) ## Related guides - [Radial Circles: distance rings](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=circles) - [Colour postcodes inside circles](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=circle-postcodes) - [Save, open & keep a separate copy](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=save) --- # Colour postcodes inside circles Official GBMaps guide for the classic map maker. VectorMaps has a different interface. Source: https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=circle-postcodes Updated: 2026-09-29 Turn your circles into coloured postcode territories with one button. The matching areas appear in your normal map key, using your coverage colours or automatically chosen colours for black outlines. There is no list to find, copy or import first. [Watch tutorial video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W4-LXbJ53kI) Some videos show an earlier layout. The written instructions below describe the current controls; this is a guide, not a video transcript. ![Colour postcodes inside circles — current GBMaps controls](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/coverage-circles.png) Current controls. Select a numbered marker for its explanation. ## 1. Set up your coverage All placed circle sets are used. The Circle set selector only chooses which set you are editing. Check the position, sizes, colours and labels before colouring. Hiding the coverage does not remove it from this calculation. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=circle-postcodes#circle-postcodes--ready) ## 2. Colour postcodes Click Colour postcodes. On an uncoloured map the result appears straight away. On a map with existing territory colours you choose what to keep. This uses the shapes already on your map; it does not make another travel-service request. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=circle-postcodes#circle-postcodes--colour) ## 3. Add to existing Keeps every postcode that already belongs to a coloured territory, even where the new coverage overlaps it. Only uncoloured matching postcodes receive the new colours. Your existing key entries and notes stay in place. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=circle-postcodes#circle-postcodes--add) ## 4. Replace colouring Clears all existing territory colouring and its key entries, then colours only the matching postcodes. Areas outside the coverage become unassigned. Your circles, dots, travel areas, images, text and other map artwork stay in place. Cancel or the close button leaves everything unchanged. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=circle-postcodes#circle-postcodes--replace) ## 5. What counts as inside? The tool tests the representative centre of each polygon at your map’s postcode level. It colours the whole area, district or sector when that centre falls inside the coverage. A polygon may extend beyond the edge, or partly overlap the coverage without being selected. This is not a list of individual addresses or an exact clipped boundary. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=circle-postcodes#circle-postcodes--matching) ## 6. Colours, labels and overlaps Ring labels become the territory names, prefixed by the set name. Coloured rings keep their colours. Default black rings receive different colours from a shuffled palette, so they do not turn your map black. You can change any zone colour in the map key, including choosing black yourself. Existing generated colours are reused when the same named coverage is coloured again. When circles overlap, the smallest matching radius wins; equal radii use the first set in the list. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=circle-postcodes#circle-postcodes--overlap) ## 7. Undo, save and refresh the result Undo reverses the whole colouring operation in one step; Redo restores it. Save keeps the new territory colours and key. Colouring is a snapshot: moving coverage or changing its labels later does not recolour the territories automatically. Click Colour postcodes again and choose Replace colouring to rebuild just this coverage, or Add to existing to fill only uncoloured gaps. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=circle-postcodes#circle-postcodes--undo) ## 8. Advanced import The Advanced import window also has Colour postcodes under Manage circle sets. It uses the circle sets already on the map, not unimported spreadsheet rows. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=circle-postcodes#circle-postcodes--advanced) ## Related guides - [Radial Circles: distance rings](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=circles) - [Create Dots: postcode locations](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=dots) - [Colour postcodes inside dots](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=dots-postcodes) - [Distance/Time: road-travel areas](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=travel) - [Colour postcodes inside travel areas](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=travel-postcodes) - [How to map a depot and its delivery coverage](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=coverage-recipe) - [Save, open & keep a separate copy](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=save) --- # Advanced concentric-circle import Official GBMaps guide for the classic map maker. VectorMaps has a different interface. Source: https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=advanced-circles Updated: 2026-09-29 Open Advanced import in Radial Circles to work in this overlay. Each row describes one centre and its distance rings. Start with the sample CSV, review the columns, then import when they are ready. The map stays in place behind the window. [Watch tutorial video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W4-LXbJ53kI) Some videos show an earlier layout. The written instructions below describe the current controls; this is a guide, not a video transcript. ![Advanced concentric-circle import — current GBMaps controls](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/coverage-advanced-circles.png) Current controls. Select a numbered marker for its explanation. ## Distance rings on the map ![Three concentric circles over Yorkshire share one centre. Blue, green and rust-coloured rings are labelled 5 miles, 10 miles and 15 miles.](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/example-circles.png) A set of three rings with a 5-mile interval gives radii of 5, 10 and 15 miles from the same centre. The labels and line colours make the distances easy to distinguish. These are straight-line distances, so they are useful for a radius-based service area; use Distance/Time for a journey-based view. ## 1. Load a CSV file / Download sample CSV Choose a file in the supplied sample format. Loading fills the columns for review; it does not place circles yet. The CSV needs its heading row, including ring_id, ring_postcode, num_circles, ring_interval, ring_stroke_thick and ring_label_size, followed by the individual ring labels and colours. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=advanced-circles#advanced-circles--file) ## 2. Set ID and Postcodes Give each row a unique ID using letters, numbers, underscores or hyphens, plus a full UK postcode for its centre. An ID matching a set on the map updates that set. A new ID adds a set, and other set IDs are kept. Duplicate IDs within the import or a missing postcode stop it before any circles change. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=advanced-circles#advanced-circles--ids) ## 3. Circles and Interval Use a whole-number count from 1 to 20 and an interval from 1 to 100 miles. The outer radius is their product. Each row needs its own values; a single value does not automatically apply to every centre. On a small screen, scroll across the columns to reach the settings on the right. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=advanced-circles#advanced-circles--dimensions) ## 4. Line width and Label size Enter a whole-number line width from 1 to 5 and a label size from 1 to 10 for each set. These use the same ranges as the Radial Circles panel. Keep each row aligned with its postcode when pasting values from a spreadsheet. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=advanced-circles#advanced-circles--style) ## 5. Ring labels Enter a comma-separated list on each row, from the innermost to the outermost ring. Put a label containing a comma in double quotes, for example "North, depot",Outer ring. Blank labels are allowed. The CSV file uses separate ring_label_1, ring_label_2 and subsequent columns; loading converts them into the lists shown here. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=advanced-circles#advanced-circles--labels) ## 6. Ring colours Enter colours in the same inner-to-outer order. The existing importer supports red, blue, green, yellow and black. Supply a colour for each visible ring; a blank colour leaves that ring’s outline hidden. The sample CSV uses separate ring_colour_1, ring_colour_2 and subsequent columns. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=advanced-circles#advanced-circles--colours) ## 7. Import to map Checks the settings and locates every postcode before drawing any sets. Progress and errors appear below the columns. A failed lookup leaves the existing circles unchanged. After a successful import, matching IDs are updated, new IDs are added and the rings are shown. Close the window to inspect them; the normal Radial Circles controls can then edit them. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=advanced-circles#advanced-circles--place) ## 8. Clear columns Empties the draft fields and file selection. Circle sets already on the map remain. Use this when preparing another import; use Delete all circle sets from map only when you want to remove the artwork. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=advanced-circles#advanced-circles--clear) ## 9. Manage circle sets on this map Expand this section for Show / hide on map and Delete all circle sets from map. Hiding retains the sets for later; deletion removes all circle sets, including ones created outside this import. Neither action deletes independent dots or marker boxes. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=advanced-circles#advanced-circles--visibility) ## 10. Colour postcodes Colour postcodes uses all circle sets already placed on the map. There is no results list to copy first. On a coloured map, choose Add to existing to keep current assignments or Replace colouring to use only the circles. Unimported rows are not used. Undo reverses the colouring in one step. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=advanced-circles#advanced-circles--centres) ## 11. Download your circle data Downloads the current columns as circles-data.csv in a format this importer can load again, including IDs, labels and colours. This is the draft in the window, which may differ from the sets currently on the map. Keep the editable map saved as well if you need all its current settings. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=advanced-circles#advanced-circles--download) ## 12. Column guide, tutorial and closing the window Expand Column guide for the field rules or use Watch tutorial. Close, the cross, Escape or a click on the shaded background dismisses the overlay and keeps your draft. Closing during postcode lookup cancels that import and leaves existing sets intact. Once an import has completed, closing does not undo it. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=advanced-circles#advanced-circles--close) ## Related guides - [Radial Circles: distance rings](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=circles) - [Several circle centres & linked settings](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=circle-sets) - [Colour postcodes inside circles](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=circle-postcodes) - [Get a spreadsheet ready for import](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=import-checklist) --- # Marker Boxes: labelled places Official GBMaps guide for the classic map maker. VectorMaps has a different interface. Source: https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=markers Updated: 2026-09-29 Use marker boxes for an office, customer, depot or meeting point that needs a visible label and callout. They sit on top of the map rather than replacing territory colours. [Watch tutorial video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3CkX_NQCjJQ) Some videos show an earlier layout. The written instructions below describe the current controls; this is a guide, not a video transcript. ![Marker Boxes: labelled places — current GBMaps controls](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/markers.png) The current panel, with its options expanded where useful. Select a numbered circle to read its explanation. ## Marker boxes on the map ![A Thirsk depot marker has a blue label box above its location with an arrow pointing down to it. A Malton office marker uses a purple label below its point and a line call-out.](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/example-markers.png) These are placed marker boxes: each label is connected to a location on the map. One uses an arrow with the text above the point; the other uses a line with the text below it. You can change the wording, text size, colours and call-out, and move a selected marker using Place on map. ## 1. Show markers Shows or hides the marker layer. Existing marker text, styling and positions are retained. Use this to compare a clean territory map with the annotated version. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=markers#markers--show) ## 2. New marker Adds a marker row and selects it, with the text field ready to type into. Give it a useful label. The count in the panel shows how many markers are present. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=markers#markers--new) ## 3. Select, rename or remove one marker Use the selection control beside a marker row to make it the active marker. Edit its text in that row. The row’s delete control removes that marker alone. Selecting a single marker returns you from “all markers” styling to that individual marker. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=markers#markers--select) ## 4. Place on map With a marker selected, tick Place on map and click its location. Click again to move that selected marker. Untick when you are finished. This is the reliable way to reposition a marker; dragging the underlying map moves the map composition. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=markers#markers--place) ## 5. Apply style to all markers Tick before changing appearance if every marker should use the same settings. It affects the styling of all markers, not their individual label text or locations. Leave it off to give one important location a different treatment. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=markers#markers--all) ## 6. Text colour and Outline colour Open the palette from the appropriate colour control. Give text enough contrast against its box and the map beneath it. The advanced importer also supplies a per-row box colour. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=markers#markers--colours) ## 7. Font size Changes the selected marker’s lettering, or every marker when Apply style to all markers is on. The slider runs from 0.5 to 20. Check the final page view, not just a close-up of the map. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=markers#markers--font) ## 8. Call-out length Open Call-out settings and adjust Length to move the label farther from or closer to its anchor. A longer callout can keep text clear of a crowded area. This changes the annotation, not the geographic location being marked. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=markers#markers--length) ## 9. Arrow or line; Invert marker Choose a plain line or arrow for the callout. Invert marker puts the box on the other side of the anchor, useful when a label would cover another feature or fall off the page. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=markers#markers--type) ## 10. Delete all markers Removes the whole marker collection. It does not delete territory colours or built-in place dots. Hide markers instead if you want to bring them back later. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=markers#markers--delete) ## Related guides - [Import marker boxes from postcodes](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=marker-import) - [Advanced marker import: every column](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=advanced-markers) - [Choose a colour](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=palette) --- # Import marker boxes from postcodes Official GBMaps guide for the classic map maker. VectorMaps has a different interface. Source: https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=marker-import Updated: 2026-09-29 For a list of branches or customers, import the postcodes and matching labels together rather than placing each marker by hand. [Watch tutorial video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3CkX_NQCjJQ) Some videos show an earlier layout. The written instructions below describe the current controls; this is a guide, not a video transcript. ![Import marker boxes from postcodes — current GBMaps controls](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/markers.png) The current panel, with its options expanded where useful. Select a numbered circle to read its explanation. ## Marker boxes on the map ![A Thirsk depot marker has a blue label box above its location with an arrow pointing down to it. A Malton office marker uses a purple label below its point and a line call-out.](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/example-markers.png) These are placed marker boxes: each label is connected to a location on the map. One uses an arrow with the text above the point; the other uses a line with the text below it. You can change the wording, text size, colours and call-out, and move a selected marker using Place on map. ## 1. Postcodes column Paste one full postcode per line, without a heading row. Keep the order exactly the same as the labels in the neighbouring box. The count helps you spot a missing row. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=marker-import#marker-import--postcodes) ## 2. Marker text column Paste one matching label per line. For example, the first postcode and first label must describe the same branch. Avoid sorting just one column in your spreadsheet. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=marker-import#marker-import--labels) ## 3. Import markers Looks up the postcode locations and creates the marker collection from the paired columns. Check the resulting markers and any failure message. Use a saved copy before replacing an existing set of annotations. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=marker-import#marker-import--import) ## 4. Advanced import Opens the modal importer with extra columns for size, colours, callout, position and London inset handling. Use it when individual rows need different styling or you want a reusable CSV file. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=marker-import#marker-import--advanced) ## Related guides - [Marker Boxes: labelled places](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=markers) - [Advanced marker import: every column](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=advanced-markers) --- # Advanced marker import: every column Official GBMaps guide for the classic map maker. VectorMaps has a different interface. Source: https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=advanced-markers Updated: 2026-09-29 Choose a CSV file or paste an Excel table into the Postcodes box. You can also paste the columns individually. Up to 500 rows are supported; CSV files must be smaller than 2 MB. [Watch tutorial video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3CkX_NQCjJQ) Some videos show an earlier layout. The written instructions below describe the current controls; this is a guide, not a video transcript. ![Advanced marker import: every column — current GBMaps controls](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/advanced-markers.png) The current panel, with its options expanded where useful. Select a numbered circle to read its explanation. ## Marker boxes on the map ![A Thirsk depot marker has a blue label box above its location with an arrow pointing down to it. A Malton office marker uses a purple label below its point and a line call-out.](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/example-markers.png) These are placed marker boxes: each label is connected to a location on the map. One uses an arrow with the text above the point; the other uses a line with the text below it. You can change the wording, text size, colours and call-out, and move a selected marker using Place on map. ## 1. Load a CSV / Download sample CSV The sample provides the expected column order. CSV files may have a recognised heading row; paste separate columns without headings. Loading a file fills the dialog for review before Import to map. Multi-line spreadsheet cells are joined with spaces. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=advanced-markers#advanced-markers--file) ## 2. Postcodes and Labels Use a full UK postcode on each row and its matching label beside it. Postcodes are required; labels can be blank. A whole tab-separated Excel table pasted into Postcodes is spread across the columns. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=advanced-markers#advanced-markers--postcode) ## 3. Text size Sets the size for each marker, from 0.1 to 100. A blank setting uses 5. Enter one value on its own to use it for all postcodes, or supply one value per row for different sizes. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=advanced-markers#advanced-markers--size) ## 4. Callout length Accepts 0 to 500; the default is 10. Zero hides the callout line. Use a larger value to separate a label from a dense cluster of locations. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=advanced-markers#advanced-markers--length) ## 5. Text colour and Box colour Use a colour name, a supported palette name such as teal400, or a hex value such as #E8AC25. Blank settings use black text and a white box. One colour value can apply to all rows. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=advanced-markers#advanced-markers--colours) ## 6. Position and Callout Position accepts above or below. Callout accepts line or arrow. Defaults are above and line. These control the marker’s annotation, not the postcode coordinates. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=advanced-markers#advanced-markers--position) ## 7. London inset Use auto to detect London postcodes, true to use the inset, or false to use the main map. The legacy numeric forms 1 and 0 are also accepted. Make sure the London inset is visible if you choose to put markers there. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=advanced-markers#advanced-markers--london) ## 8. One value or a complete column An optional column can contain one shared value or one value for every postcode row. Other column lengths are rejected so rows do not silently shift. Blank optional cells use the defaults. Read the status message if a value or row needs correcting. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=advanced-markers#advanced-markers--columns) ## 9. Show/hide, download and delete Open Manage marker boxes on this map. Show/hide changes visibility and Delete all markers from map removes the collection. Download your marker data exports the current column contents, which can include edits you have not imported yet. Clear columns only empties the draft fields. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=advanced-markers#advanced-markers--manage) ## 10. Import to map / Close / Clear columns Import to map validates and replaces the current markers with the imported collection. Check any unavailable postcode results. Close leaves the current artwork alone if you have not imported; it also stops an in-progress import. Clear columns clears the draft fields, not the markers already on the map. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=advanced-markers#advanced-markers--apply) ## Related guides - [Import marker boxes from postcodes](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=marker-import) - [Marker Boxes: labelled places](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=markers) - [Get a spreadsheet ready for import](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=import-checklist) --- # Create Dots: postcode locations Official GBMaps guide for the classic map maker. VectorMaps has a different interface. Source: https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=dots Updated: 2026-09-29 Plot customers, sites or depots from a list of postcodes. A dot can be a small location symbol or a large circle with a radius in miles. [Watch tutorial video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SYR80kKLD6o) Some videos show an earlier layout. The written instructions below describe the current controls; this is a guide, not a video transcript. ![Create Dots: postcode locations — current GBMaps controls](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/coverage-dots.png) Current controls. Select a numbered marker for its explanation. ## Different dots and shapes ![A Yorkshire map with a green circle, blue square, yellow triangle, purple hexagon and orange star at different locations. A larger hollow dashed circle appears around York.](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/example-dots.png) Advanced dots can use circles, squares, triangles, hexagons and stars. Different shapes and colours help distinguish depots, customers or other location types. The larger hollow circle demonstrates a coverage-style outline; the basic dot controls also let you adjust fill, transparency and line appearance. These are example positions. ## 1. Show dots Shows or hides the postcode-dot layer without deleting the locations. It is separate from the built-in town, village and city dots under Map details. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=dots#dots--show) ## 2. Postcodes: one per line Paste full postcodes, one on each line. The entry count helps you check the list. This panel is intended for the supported UK postcode maps; do not assume an overseas postal code can be geocoded simply because another map is open. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=dots#dots--list) ## 3. Clear text Empties the postcode entry box. It does not mean “delete the dots already on the map”. Use the delete button for that, or the visibility checkbox to hide them temporarily. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=dots#dots--clear) ## 4. Radius in miles Sets the size of the circles around the postcode locations, from 0.2 to 20 miles in this panel. It is a radius, not a diameter. Use a small radius for location points and a larger one to suggest straight-line coverage. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=dots#dots--radius) ## 5. Line width and Line colour Sets the outline thickness and colour. The width slider runs from 0.1 to 20. A thin dark outline can keep pale dots visible over coloured territories. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=dots#dots--outline) ## 6. Fill colour Sets the inside colour of the dots. Use More appearance options to make that fill translucent, allowing the territory map beneath it to remain visible. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=dots#dots--fill) ## 7. Add dots to map Looks up the supplied postcodes and draws the dots using the chosen appearance. Check the map and any lookup feedback before considering the import finished. Keep a copy of your postcode list if you will need to repeat the import. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=dots#dots--add) ## 8. Delete all dots Removes the dot collection from the map. It does not clear built-in settlement dots or marker boxes. Use Show dots if you only want them temporarily out of sight. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=dots#dots--delete) ## 9. Colour postcodes Turn the coverage into postcode territories with one click. Choose Add to existing to keep current colouring, or Replace colouring to start again from this coverage. The matching uses polygon centres; read the separate postcode-colouring guide for edge cases and overlaps. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=dots#dots--colour) ## Related guides - [Dot transparency, outlines & dashes](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=dot-style) - [Colour postcodes inside dots](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=dots-postcodes) - [Advanced dots & shapes: every column](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=advanced-dots) - [Marker Boxes: labelled places](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=markers) --- # Dot transparency, outlines & dashes Official GBMaps guide for the classic map maker. VectorMaps has a different interface. Source: https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=dot-style Updated: 2026-09-29 Open More appearance options in Create Dots to soften overlapping coverage circles or distinguish different kinds of location. [Watch tutorial video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SYR80kKLD6o) Some videos show an earlier layout. The written instructions below describe the current controls; this is a guide, not a video transcript. ![Dot transparency, outlines & dashes — current GBMaps controls](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/coverage-dots.png) Current controls. Select a numbered marker for its explanation. ## Different dots and shapes ![A Yorkshire map with a green circle, blue square, yellow triangle, purple hexagon and orange star at different locations. A larger hollow dashed circle appears around York.](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/example-dots.png) Advanced dots can use circles, squares, triangles, hexagons and stars. Different shapes and colours help distinguish depots, customers or other location types. The larger hollow circle demonstrates a coverage-style outline; the basic dot controls also let you adjust fill, transparency and line appearance. These are example positions. ## 1. Line opacity Sets how strongly the outline is drawn, from completely transparent to fully opaque. Reducing it is useful when many large circles overlap. A zero-opacity line is still present but invisible. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=dot-style#dot-style--line) ## 2. Fill opacity Sets the transparency of the inside of the circles. Lower it to see boundaries and territory colours underneath. At zero, only the outline remains visible if the line itself has nonzero opacity. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=dot-style#dot-style--fill) ## 3. Line pattern Choose Solid or Dashed. The dash-length control appears for a dashed line and changes the spacing pattern. A reopened map may show Saved pattern for an existing custom dash arrangement; selecting a standard pattern replaces that arrangement. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=dot-style#dot-style--pattern) ## 4. Style and geography Changing transparency or dash pattern changes appearance only. Changing the radius changes the size of the coverage circle and can therefore change which postcode centres are found inside it. Regenerate a postcode list after a radius change. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=dot-style#dot-style--radius) ## Related guides - [Create Dots: postcode locations](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=dots) - [Advanced dots & shapes: every column](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=advanced-dots) - [Colour postcodes inside dots](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=dots-postcodes) --- # Colour postcodes inside dots Official GBMaps guide for the classic map maker. VectorMaps has a different interface. Source: https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=dots-postcodes Updated: 2026-09-29 Turn your dots into coloured postcode territories with one button. The matching areas appear in your normal map key, using your coverage colours or automatically chosen colours for black outlines. There is no list to find, copy or import first. [Watch tutorial video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SYR80kKLD6o) Some videos show an earlier layout. The written instructions below describe the current controls; this is a guide, not a video transcript. ![Colour postcodes inside dots — current GBMaps controls](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/coverage-dots.png) Current controls. Select a numbered marker for its explanation. ## 1. Set up your coverage All dots and shapes already placed on the map are used, including those added through Advanced import. Check the position, sizes, colours and labels before colouring. Hiding the coverage does not remove it from this calculation. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=dots-postcodes#dots-postcodes--ready) ## 2. Colour postcodes Click Colour postcodes. On an uncoloured map the result appears straight away. On a map with existing territory colours you choose what to keep. This uses the shapes already on your map; it does not make another travel-service request. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=dots-postcodes#dots-postcodes--colour) ## 3. Add to existing Keeps every postcode that already belongs to a coloured territory, even where the new coverage overlaps it. Only uncoloured matching postcodes receive the new colours. Your existing key entries and notes stay in place. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=dots-postcodes#dots-postcodes--add) ## 4. Replace colouring Clears all existing territory colouring and its key entries, then colours only the matching postcodes. Areas outside the coverage become unassigned. Your circles, dots, travel areas, images, text and other map artwork stay in place. Cancel or the close button leaves everything unchanged. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=dots-postcodes#dots-postcodes--replace) ## 5. What counts as inside? The tool tests the representative centre of each polygon at your map’s postcode level. It colours the whole area, district or sector when that centre falls inside the coverage. A polygon may extend beyond the edge, or partly overlap the coverage without being selected. This is not a list of individual addresses or an exact clipped boundary. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=dots-postcodes#dots-postcodes--matching) ## 6. Colours, labels and overlaps Dot labels become the territory names; a dot without a label uses its postcode. Coloured fills are kept, and an unfilled shape uses its line colour. Black dots or outlines receive automatically chosen zone colours instead of black fills. You can change any zone colour in the map key, including choosing black yourself. Existing generated colours are reused when the same named coverage is coloured again. If shapes overlap, the first matching dot or shape takes precedence. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=dots-postcodes#dots-postcodes--overlap) ## 7. Undo, save and refresh the result Undo reverses the whole colouring operation in one step; Redo restores it. Save keeps the new territory colours and key. Colouring is a snapshot: moving coverage or changing its labels later does not recolour the territories automatically. Click Colour postcodes again and choose Replace colouring to rebuild just this coverage, or Add to existing to fill only uncoloured gaps. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=dots-postcodes#dots-postcodes--undo) ## 8. Advanced dots and shapes Advanced import has the same Colour postcodes button under Manage dots & shapes. Import your rows first; then colour from the shapes on the map. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=dots-postcodes#dots-postcodes--advanced) ## Related guides - [Radial Circles: distance rings](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=circles) - [Colour postcodes inside circles](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=circle-postcodes) - [Create Dots: postcode locations](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=dots) - [Distance/Time: road-travel areas](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=travel) - [Colour postcodes inside travel areas](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=travel-postcodes) - [How to map a depot and its delivery coverage](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=coverage-recipe) - [Save, open & keep a separate copy](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=save) --- # Advanced dots & shapes: every column Official GBMaps guide for the classic map maker. VectorMaps has a different interface. Source: https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=advanced-dots Updated: 2026-09-29 This importer adds labels and per-location styling, including squares, triangles, hexagons and stars. Review the columns before importing: the new collection replaces the existing dots and shapes. [Watch tutorial video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SYR80kKLD6o) Some videos show an earlier layout. The written instructions below describe the current controls; this is a guide, not a video transcript. ![Advanced dots & shapes: every column — current GBMaps controls](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/coverage-advanced-dots.png) Current controls. Select a numbered marker for its explanation. ## Different dots and shapes ![A Yorkshire map with a green circle, blue square, yellow triangle, purple hexagon and orange star at different locations. A larger hollow dashed circle appears around York.](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/example-dots.png) Advanced dots can use circles, squares, triangles, hexagons and stars. Different shapes and colours help distinguish depots, customers or other location types. The larger hollow circle demonstrates a coverage-style outline; the basic dot controls also let you adjust fill, transparency and line appearance. These are example positions. ## 1. CSV file, sample or pasted Excel table Load a CSV smaller than 2 MB, with up to 500 rows. Download sample CSV for the expected order. A recognised heading row is allowed in a file; paste separate columns without headings. A whole Excel table can be pasted into the Postcodes box. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=advanced-dots#advanced-dots--file) ## 2. Postcodes and Labels Use full UK postcodes, one per row. Labels are optional, so a location can be a plain shape. Keep each postcode and its settings on the same row. Multi-line spreadsheet cells are joined with spaces. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=advanced-dots#advanced-dots--locations) ## 3. Radius A distance in miles, from 0.1 to 500; blank cells use 10. This controls shape size around the location. It is not the line thickness or a screen-pixel measurement. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=advanced-dots#advanced-dots--radius) ## 4. Line width and Line colour Width accepts 0.1 to 100, defaulting to 1. Line colour defaults to black. Colours can be recognised names or hex values such as #E8AC25. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=advanced-dots#advanced-dots--outline) ## 5. Fill colour Sets the inside colour for each shape, defaulting to red. Use one value for the entire collection or a complete row-by-row column. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=advanced-dots#advanced-dots--fill) ## 6. Label size Accepts 0 to 20 and defaults to 3. Zero hides the label text. This is useful if the label needs to remain in the data but would overcrowd the map. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=advanced-dots#advanced-dots--label) ## 7. Shape Use circle, square, triangle, hexagon or star. Blank settings use circle. Keep the spelling from the column guide so the importer can recognise the shape. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=advanced-dots#advanced-dots--shape) ## 8. Label position Use top, bottom, left, right or middle, with top as the default. Choose a position that keeps text away from a neighbouring shape or important map label. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=advanced-dots#advanced-dots--position) ## 9. Shared values, blanks and errors One setting on its own applies to every postcode. Otherwise supply one row per postcode. Blank optional cells use the defaults. The status line identifies invalid rows or values before import; fix them rather than shifting a column to make the counts match. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=advanced-dots#advanced-dots--rules) ## 10. London dots In Manage dots & shapes, choose Inset map, Main map, Inset & main map, or Hide London dots. This is separate from whether the London inset itself is visible under Regions & Insets. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=advanced-dots#advanced-dots--london) ## 11. Manage the collection Show/hide changes map visibility; Delete all dots from map removes the collection. Download your dot data exports the values currently in the dialog’s columns, including draft edits: keep a copy before clearing or replacing them. Colour postcodes turns the placed shapes into territories using polygon centres. Choose Add to existing to preserve current colouring, or Replace colouring to replace it; Undo restores the previous result. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=advanced-dots#advanced-dots--manage) ## 12. Import, Close and Clear columns Import to map validates and replaces the map’s dots and shapes. Check the final lookup feedback for missing locations. Close leaves unimported drafts unapplied and stops an in-progress import. Clear columns empties the draft input fields, not the current map layer. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=advanced-dots#advanced-dots--commit) ## Related guides - [Create Dots: postcode locations](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=dots) - [Colour postcodes inside dots](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=dots-postcodes) - [Get a spreadsheet ready for import](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=import-checklist) --- # Distance/Time: road-travel areas Official GBMaps guide for the classic map maker. VectorMaps has a different interface. Source: https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=travel Updated: 2026-09-29 Choose a starting point, set how far to travel, then pick your legend colours and labels. Press Create to draw the travel areas. Add more starting points to compare depots, shops or service bases. These are road-network estimates, not straight-line circles or guaranteed journey times. [Watch tutorial video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P-sWexGmyfo) Some videos show an earlier layout. The written instructions below describe the current controls; this is a guide, not a video transcript. ![Distance/Time: road-travel areas — current GBMaps controls](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/travel-multiple-panel.png) Current controls with a sample travel result. The picture explains the tools, not a real journey. ## Travel areas on the map ![Three nested irregular travel-area bands over a Yorkshire map, with a separate key for 10, 20 and 30 minutes. The screenshot states that the contours are illustrative, not a calculated journey.](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/example-travel.png) Isochrones are travel-area shapes. Their irregular edges show why a time-based catchment can look very different from a circle: the available network affects how far you can travel. This is an illustrative display made with the tool’s renderer, not a calculated route or journey-time estimate. Use Create areas with your own starting location and settings to calculate your map. ## 1. Name, choose and hide your travel areas Each starting point has a name box in the list. Type a useful name such as “York depot”; this also becomes its legend heading. Click a name, flag or legend to choose that analysis. The checkbox beside the name hides or shows the whole analysis. You can keep up to five starting points on a map. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=travel#travel--sets) ## 2. Place and drag a starting flag Choose Or click on the map. The postcode box changes to Click map to set. Click your starting location and the button changes to Pinned. Drag the flag to adjust it. Or search by postcode brings the search box back. Press Escape to cancel placement. Positioning a flag makes no route request: press Create when ready. Use the main map rather than an enlarged London inset. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=travel#travel--place) ## 3. Find a postcode or place Type a full postcode or a place name under Start from. Click the magnifying glass or press Enter. Check where the flag lands and drag it if needed. Searching only positions the flag; Create creates the travel areas from that position. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=travel#travel--postcode) ## 4. Longer journeys work automatically Enter up to 360 minutes or 310 miles. The tool automatically uses a less detailed boundary for journeys beyond 60 minutes or 55 miles; there is no separate setting to choose. Each band is calculated from the road network, rather than made by shrinking the outer shape. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=travel#travel--range) ## 5. Distance or drive time Under How far, choose Distance for miles travelled or Drive time for minutes. The Up to field shows the units. A 20-minute area is different from a 20-mile area or a 20-mile radial circle. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=travel#travel--measure) ## 6. Distance / Time limit Enter the outer travel limit you want to explore. Travel areas are calculated estimates from the routing service and road network, not a promise that every journey will take exactly that time. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=travel#travel--limit) ## 7. Travel bands Choose 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 or 10 equal bands within the total. For example, a 30-minute limit with three bands represents 10, 20 and 30 minutes. More bands show detail but add visual complexity. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=travel#travel--bands) ## 8. Create or update the travel areas When the flag, range and legend are ready, press Create. This calculates the road-travel areas. Once they exist, the button says Update on map. Move the flag or change the range, then press it to update that starting point. Other starting points stay as they were. Location searches and calculations need an active map licence and use the normal service allowance. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=travel#travel--create) ## 9. Add another with the same settings Choose Add another starting point below the green button. Your distance or drive time, limit, bands, colours and custom labels are kept. Search for the new starting point or click the map to place its flag, then press Create. Your earlier travel areas stay on the map. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=travel#travel--another) ## 10. Keep flags above the map, or hide them Untick Show flag to hide the selected starting marker. Tick it again to show it. Flags appear above the travel areas and remain draggable. Showing or hiding them makes no route request. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=travel#travel--flags) ## 11. Cancel the remaining calculations Cancel remaining calculations stops the queue after any calculation already in progress finishes. A request already sent to the routing service may still be processed. Your earlier result is kept; retry can continue from completed bands. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=travel#travel--cancel) ## 12. Edit the colours and legend labels In Legend, click a colour square to change it and type beside it to change the label. Automatic labels use the band limits: 30 miles split into four gives 7.5, 15, 22.5 and 30 miles. You can replace them with your own wording, such as Local deliveries. Clear a label or click its small reset arrow to return to automatic wording. Each starting point keeps its own colours and labels; editing them uses no route calculations. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=travel#travel--colours) ## 13. Show areas and show legend The checkbox beside a starting-point name shows or hides that analysis as a whole. For separate controls, use Show areas, Show flag or Show legend. Hidden items remain saved and can be shown again. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=travel#travel--show) ## 14. Select, move and resize a travel key Click a travel legend to select its starting point and show its settings. Drag the legend to move it, or drag a blue corner handle to resize it without stretching it. Scrolling over the key also changes its size. Click the map or press Escape to remove the handles. Choose Reset legend position to return it to its original position and size. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=travel#travel--legend) ## 15. Delete areas Click the small bin button beside Create or Update on map to remove the selected starting point and its result. Other analyses stay on the map. Undo brings it back. To hide it temporarily instead, untick its name in Your starting points. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=travel#travel--delete) ## 16. Save the flags and their results Saving keeps the flags and their visibility, starting-point names, custom band labels, calculated shapes, colours and key positions and sizes. Reopening restores all of these without requesting calculations again. Downloads include the finished keys, with no editing handles. Moving a flag stores its new position but leaves the previous boundaries until you press Update on map. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=travel#travel--saving) ## 17. Colour postcodes Click Colour postcodes below the visibility controls to turn this starting point’s calculated bands into postcode territories. If your map already has coloured areas, choose Add to existing or Replace colouring. This reuses the calculated shapes without another routing request. See Colour postcodes inside travel areas for a full explanation. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=travel#travel--colour) ## Related guides - [Colour postcodes inside travel areas](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=travel-postcodes) - [Radial Circles: distance rings](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=circles) - [Additional Data: add your own figures](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=data) --- # Colour postcodes inside travel areas Official GBMaps guide for the classic map maker. VectorMaps has a different interface. Source: https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=travel-postcodes Updated: 2026-09-29 Turn your travel areas into coloured postcode territories with one button. The matching areas take the coverage colours and appear in your normal map key. There is no list to find, copy or import first. [Watch tutorial video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P-sWexGmyfo) Some videos show an earlier layout. The written instructions below describe the current controls; this is a guide, not a video transcript. ![Colour postcodes inside travel areas — current GBMaps controls](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/travel-multiple-panel.png) Current controls with a sample travel result. The picture explains the tools, not a real journey. ## Travel areas on the map ![Three nested irregular travel-area bands over a Yorkshire map, with a separate key for 10, 20 and 30 minutes. The screenshot states that the contours are illustrative, not a calculated journey.](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/example-travel.png) Isochrones are travel-area shapes. Their irregular edges show why a time-based catchment can look very different from a circle: the available network affects how far you can travel. This is an illustrative display made with the tool’s renderer, not a calculated route or journey-time estimate. Use Create areas with your own starting location and settings to calculate your map. ## 1. Set up your coverage Choose the starting point you want to use and press Create or Update on map first. Only that starting point’s calculated travel bands are used. Check the position, sizes, colours and labels before colouring. Hiding the coverage does not remove it from this calculation. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=travel-postcodes#travel-postcodes--ready) ## 2. Colour postcodes Click Colour postcodes. On an uncoloured map the result appears straight away. On a map with existing territory colours you choose what to keep. This uses the shapes already on your map; it does not make another travel-service request. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=travel-postcodes#travel-postcodes--colour) ## 3. Add to existing Keeps every postcode that already belongs to a coloured territory, even where the new coverage overlaps it. Only uncoloured matching postcodes receive the new colours. Your existing key entries and notes stay in place. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=travel-postcodes#travel-postcodes--add) ## 4. Replace colouring Clears all existing territory colouring and its key entries, then colours only the matching postcodes. Areas outside the coverage become unassigned. Your circles, dots, travel areas, images, text and other map artwork stay in place. Cancel or the close button leaves everything unchanged. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=travel-postcodes#travel-postcodes--replace) ## 5. What counts as inside? The tool tests the representative centre of each polygon at your map’s postcode level. It colours the whole area, district or sector when that centre falls inside the coverage. A polygon may extend beyond the edge, or partly overlap the coverage without being selected. This is not a list of individual addresses or an exact clipped boundary. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=travel-postcodes#travel-postcodes--matching) ## 6. Colours, labels and overlaps Travel band colours and labels become the territory colours and key names, prefixed by the starting-point name. Where bands overlap, the inner band wins. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=travel-postcodes#travel-postcodes--overlap) ## 7. Undo, save and refresh the result Undo reverses the whole colouring operation in one step; Redo restores it. Save keeps the new territory colours and key. Colouring is a snapshot: moving coverage or changing its labels later does not recolour the territories automatically. Click Colour postcodes again and choose Replace colouring to rebuild just this coverage, or Add to existing to fill only uncoloured gaps. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=travel-postcodes#travel-postcodes--undo) ## Related guides - [Radial Circles: distance rings](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=circles) - [Colour postcodes inside circles](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=circle-postcodes) - [Create Dots: postcode locations](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=dots) - [Colour postcodes inside dots](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=dots-postcodes) - [Distance/Time: road-travel areas](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=travel) - [How to map a depot and its delivery coverage](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=coverage-recipe) - [Save, open & keep a separate copy](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=save) --- # Import Excel: postcode territories Official GBMaps guide for the classic map maker. VectorMaps has a different interface. Source: https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=excel Updated: 2026-09-29 Use this panel when a spreadsheet already tells you which postcode belongs to which territory. The data is matched to polygons in the selected map. [Watch tutorial video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QXFxOiq1m-A) Some videos show an earlier layout. The written instructions below describe the current controls; this is a guide, not a video transcript. ![Import Excel: postcode territories — current GBMaps controls](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/excel.png) The current panel, with its options expanded where useful. Select a numbered circle to read its explanation. ## 1. Postcodes column Copy the postcode column from Excel and paste it here, one postcode per row and without a heading. Use codes that exist at the selected map’s level. Keep codes such as leading-zero ZIP codes as text in your spreadsheet. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=excel#excel--postcodes) ## 2. Zone names column Paste the matching territory names in the same row order. Repeated names put several postcodes into the same territory. Leaving the entire column blank uses Zone 1. For a meaningful multi-territory map, supply a name for every postcode. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=excel#excel--names) ## 3. Clear each column The Clear button below a column empties that input. It does not act as a general “clear my map” command. Clear and replace both columns together when importing a different table. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=excel#excel--clear) ## 4. Reverse order Reverses both columns together and updates the map from the reversed data. It is useful for changing the order in which names appear in the key. It is an action on the import, not just a cosmetic sort of one text box. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=excel#excel--reverse) ## 5. Colour range Choose the family of colours to use when the importer assigns colours to territories, or choose Random. Related shades can suggest a series, but clearly different colours are usually better for unrelated sales teams. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=excel#excel--range) ## 6. Import to map Processes the paired columns and colours the matching polygons. Check any feedback and inspect the result: a district code cannot create missing sector geometry. Save a separate version before importing over a map you may need again. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=excel#excel--import) ## 7. Import with colours Opens the larger dialog with a third column for your chosen colours and an optional table for extra key text. Use it for a repeatable colour scheme across several maps. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=excel#excel--colours) ## 8. Sample data Open the sample chooser to see prepared examples. Selecting a sample imports it immediately, so save your current work before experimenting. Samples are useful for learning the required data structure. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=excel#excel--samples) ## Related guides - [Postcode areas, districts & sectors explained](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=postcode-guide) - [Excel import with your own colours](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=excel-colours) - [Get a spreadsheet ready for import](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=import-checklist) - [How to colour a postcode map from a spreadsheet](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=spreadsheet-recipe) - [START HERE: names, colours & territories](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=colouring) --- # Excel import with your own colours Official GBMaps guide for the classic map maker. VectorMaps has a different interface. Source: https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=excel-colours Updated: 2026-09-29 Paste matching postcode, territory and colour columns. Use the same colour consistently for every row belonging to the same territory. [Watch tutorial video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QXFxOiq1m-A) Some videos show an earlier layout. The written instructions below describe the current controls; this is a guide, not a video transcript. ![Excel import with your own colours — current GBMaps controls](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/excel-colours.png) The current panel, with its options expanded where useful. Select a numbered circle to read its explanation. ## 1. Postcodes Paste one code per row, without headings. Copy all related columns from the same table so a sort or filtered selection does not put the wrong name beside a postcode. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=excel-colours#excel-colours--postcodes) ## 2. Zone names Supply the territory name for each row. Repeating a name groups those polygons together. Check spelling, spacing and punctuation if you expected one territory but see several similar names in the key. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=excel-colours#excel-colours--names) ## 3. Colours Paste the matching supported colour names, or leave the colour column blank to use automatic colours. Use the colour-name catalogue in this dialog for predictable matches. If a colour column is supplied, keep its row count aligned with the other columns. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=excel-colours#excel-colours--colours) ## 4. Choose and copy colour names Use the quick colour choices or open Browse all colours. Search by name, then copy the chosen name into your spreadsheet or the Colours column. If automatic copying is unavailable, select the displayed text and copy it normally. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=excel-colours#excel-colours--catalogue) ## 5. Extra legend text The optional extra-text table uses the territory name in its first column and further columns for lines of notes. This is separate from the postcode assignment table. Leaving this section blank keeps existing details. You can also edit these notes later in Key Settings → Legend details. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=excel-colours#excel-colours--notes) ## 6. Samples and copying help The sample list applies a sample to the map when selected. The copying-help section illustrates how to copy columns from Excel. Use it if pasted data has ended up on one line or in the wrong column. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=excel-colours#excel-colours--example) ## 7. Import to map Applies the import to the current map. Check the result and save it. The dialog’s Clear all command clears its draft fields; Cancel closes the dialog without running the import. Imported territory data can replace existing work, so keep a saved copy first. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=excel-colours#excel-colours--apply) ## Related guides - [Import Excel: postcode territories](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=excel) - [Extra text beneath key entries](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=legend-details) - [Get a spreadsheet ready for import](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=import-checklist) --- # Get a spreadsheet ready for import Official GBMaps guide for the classic map maker. VectorMaps has a different interface. Source: https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=import-checklist Updated: 2026-09-29 Most import problems start with a shifted row, the wrong postcode level or a value formatted unexpectedly by a spreadsheet. A quick check before import saves a lot of tidying afterwards. ## 1. Choose the right importer Import Excel colours postcode polygons into territories. Create Dots plots locations. Marker Boxes adds labelled locations. Radial Circles draws distance rings. A postcode in a legend note is just printed text. Choose by the result you want, not simply by the fact that your source is Excel. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=import-checklist#import-checklist--purpose) ## 2. Keep each record on one row The postcode, name and settings on row 12 must all describe the same location or polygon. Sort the whole spreadsheet table together. Do not sort the postcode column separately. Check blank rows, merged cells and accidental heading rows. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=import-checklist#import-checklist--rows) ## 3. Match the map and postcode level A UK postcode area such as YO, a district such as YO18, a sector such as YO18 7 and a full postcode such as YO18 7TG describe different levels. Territory import needs codes compatible with the selected boundary map; location tools need full postcodes for precise positioning. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=import-checklist#import-checklist--codes) ## 4. Keep names consistent “North team” and a differently spelt version can become separate key entries. Use a single spelling for each territory. Give each territory one consistent colour throughout the sheet. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=import-checklist#import-checklist--names) ## 5. Preserve codes as text Postal codes are identifiers, not quantities. Keep leading zeroes where relevant and avoid spreadsheet date conversion. In the advanced location importers, use plain numeric settings and the exact words listed in Column guide. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=import-checklist#import-checklist--format) ## 6. Read the import result A loaded file is not always an applied import. Review the fields, choose Import to map, then check any errors or missing postcode results. Keep the original spreadsheet so you can correct and repeat the import without rebuilding it from the map. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=import-checklist#import-checklist--review) ## Related guides - [Import Excel: postcode territories](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=excel) - [Advanced dots & shapes: every column](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=advanced-dots) - [Advanced marker import: every column](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=advanced-markers) - [When the map does not do what you expect](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=troubleshooting) --- # Additional Data: add your own figures Official GBMaps guide for the classic map maker. VectorMaps has a different interface. Source: https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=data Updated: 2026-09-29 Bring in sales, orders or other postcode figures and see totals for each territory in your legend. Upload a file once and keep it in your account for future maps. [Watch tutorial video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rm5wfNzOq6I) Some videos show an earlier layout. The written instructions below describe the current controls; this is a guide, not a video transcript. ![Additional Data: add your own figures — actual GBMaps dialog with example figures](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/customer-data-library.png) Select a numbered circle for its explanation. These are the current controls with example data. ## 1. Open My datasets Choose Additional Data → My datasets in the editor, or Open data library above your saved maps. Sign in if asked. Your own datasets appear here, ready to use. If this is your first upload, the file box opens straight away. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=data#data--library) ## 2. Add a CSV file Choose Upload data, then drop your CSV into the file box or click to choose a file. Check the two selected columns, give the dataset a name and import it. The import guide explains this short process. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=data#data--upload) ## 3. Use on this map Click Use on this map beside a dataset. Its totals appear in the legend. Click the name of a zone in your legend, then click inside the map shapes you want to give to that zone. The figures update as you build it. You can have up to eight datasets on a map. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=data#data--apply) ## 4. Remove from this map Removes this dataset’s figures from the current map only. It stays in your account for later use. To hide a figure temporarily instead, untick its name in the Additional Data sidebar. Save the map to keep either choice. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=data#data--remove) ## 5. Use it again on another map Open the other map, choose My datasets and click Use on this map. GBMaps works out the appropriate totals for you. You do not need to upload the file again or alter your spreadsheet. If the file does not contain enough detail for a particular map, it remains saved for your other postcode maps. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=data#data--future) ## 6. Read the figures in your legend The name you gave the dataset is the label in the legend. A blank value is missing information, not zero. A star beside a total means some coloured locations have no value in this dataset. Open More options to download the source, or Download this map’s figures to check the postcode breakdown. Duplicate map shapes and insets are counted once. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=data#data--reading) ## 7. More options Extra housekeeping is tucked away here. Download CSV saves the accepted postcode rows and values. Update this dataset imports a replacement file without changing your older saved maps. Archive puts a dataset out of the way; it does not erase its figures from existing maps. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=data#data--more) ## 8. Earlier uploads and existing datasets If you have updated a dataset, More options includes Earlier uploads. Saved maps keep the figures originally used. Choose another upload and Use on this map only when you want to change this map. Datasets made with the earlier multi-column importer still work; their Figure to use list lets you choose a column. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=data#data--older) ## 9. Download territory totals or postcode figures In the editor, open Download this map’s figures below the dataset cards. Choose Territory totals or Postcode breakdown. On the saved-map page, use that map’s options menu to download its saved figures. Save recent colouring changes first when downloading from the saved-map page. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=data#data--downloads) ## 10. Keep using included statistics Load included statistics in the Additional Data sidebar opens the population, household and other built-in figures available to your map. These can be used alongside your own datasets. If no included figures are available, the message explains how to upload your own postcode figures privately. My datasets opens your library (or asks you to sign in); Buy a licence opens the usual payment choices for this map. The video shows the earlier statistics controls; the instructions here describe the current interface. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=data#data--builtin) ## 11. Change the order in your legend Open Additional Data in the sidebar. Use the up and down arrows beside a figure to move it above or below the others. Uploaded datasets and included statistics share one list, so you can mix them in any order. Every territory in the legend follows this order. Unticking a figure hides it but keeps its place ready for when you tick it again. Save your map to keep the order next time. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=data#data--order) ## Related guides - [Upload your postcode figures](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=data-import) - [START HERE: names, colours & territories](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=colouring) - [Key Settings: layout & visibility](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=key) - [Find, reopen & manage saved files](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=saved-files) - [How to make a sales heat map from your own data](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=sales-map-recipe) --- # Heat Maps: colour areas by their values Official GBMaps guide for the classic map maker. VectorMaps has a different interface. Source: https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=heat-maps Updated: 2026-09-29 Turn a column of figures into a map that is easy to compare. A light-to-dark colour range can show lower and higher sales, customer counts or population totals. These heat maps colour the boundary shapes themselves; they do not create a blurred cloud of points. ![Heat Maps: colour areas by their values — controls in the mapping tool](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/heat-maps-panel.png) The current panel. Select a numbered circle to read about that control. ## 1. Choose your figures My postcode datasets opens your existing data library. Upload a postcode CSV or use a dataset already in your account, then choose Use on this map. Back in Heat Maps, select the figure to colour by. More detailed postcode totals are combined for the area or district map you are using. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=heat-maps#heat-maps--data) ## 2. Use a CSV for this map Upload a CSV for this map works with the names of its boundary shapes, including county maps. Download this map’s area names gives you a ready-made list: add your values and save it as CSV. Drop the file into the box, check the area-name and values columns, and give the figures a name. The preview shows matches, repeated names and unmatched rows before you accept it. Repeated names are added together; empty values stay as No data. Correct any non-numerical entries before continuing. These figures stay with this saved map rather than being added to your account’s postcode dataset library. For Excel workbooks, use Save As CSV first. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=heat-maps#heat-maps--csv) ## 3. Choose the colours and number of shades Pick a colour strip and choose between three and nine shades. Blues, Greens and Teal are useful for low-to-high values. Heat runs from pale yellow towards red. Reverse the colours swaps which end represents the larger figures. A dataset with few distinct values may need fewer shades. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=heat-maps#heat-maps--shades) ## 4. Read the preview before changing your map The preview shows the number range and area count for each colour. Changing these controls does not recolour the map yet. Areas with missing figures are listed separately and become grey No data areas; a genuine zero is included in the numerical ranges. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=heat-maps#heat-maps--preview) ## 5. Create the heat map Create heat map applies those colours and adds editable zones to the normal legend. If the map already has coloured territories, a warning explains that their assignments will change. Choose Cancel if you want to keep them. Undo restores the previous colours, assignments and legend. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=heat-maps#heat-maps--create) ## 6. Keep your original map For an already saved map, Create in a saved copy lets you give the new version its own name. The original is kept as it was and you continue editing the copy. Save an unsaved map once first if you want to keep both versions. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=heat-maps#heat-maps--copy) ## 7. Change how values are grouped More options offers similar numbers of areas per shade (quantiles), equal-sized number ranges, natural gaps in the values, or geometric intervals. Geometric intervals need every value to be above zero. Quantiles are a useful starting point; equal ranges make numerical comparisons more direct. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=heat-maps#heat-maps--method) ## 8. Make the legend readable Choose normal numbers, pounds or percentages and the number of decimal places. The legend heading uses the dataset’s figure name unless you supply one. Only use percentage formatting for figures already calculated for the map areas: adding percentages from smaller places does not give a valid percentage. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=heat-maps#heat-maps--format) ## 9. Edit and save the result The generated colours and labels are ordinary legend zones. Change their names or colours, or click on the map to adjust their assigned areas. Saving keeps the colours and the dataset version used to make them. Reopening does not automatically recolour the map when newer data is uploaded. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=heat-maps#heat-maps--edit) ## Related guides - [Additional Data: add your own figures](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=data) - [Upload your postcode figures](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=data-import) - [Postcode areas, districts & sectors explained](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=postcode-guide) - [Save, open & keep a separate copy](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=save) - [Key Settings: layout & visibility](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=key) - [How to make a sales heat map from your own data](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=sales-map-recipe) --- # Upload your postcode figures Official GBMaps guide for the classic map maker. VectorMaps has a different interface. Source: https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=data-import Updated: 2026-09-29 Drop in a CSV, check the postcode and value columns, name the dataset and import. Your figures are saved in your account and, when possible, added straight to the map you are editing. ![Upload your postcode figures — actual GBMaps dialog with example figures](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/customer-data-review.png) Select a numbered circle for its explanation. These are the current controls with example data. ## 1. Drop in your CSV Choose Upload data. Drag one CSV file onto Drop your CSV here, or click the box to choose it. The first row should contain column headings. In Excel, use Save As → CSV UTF-8. You can also open Or paste cells from Excel and paste the headings and data together. Files can contain up to 25,000 rows and 8 MB. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=data-import#data-import--file) ## 2. Check the postcode column GBMaps selects the column it thinks contains your postcodes. Check its blue heading in the small sample table. If the choice is wrong, pick the correct heading from Postcodes. Full postcodes and shorter postcode codes are recognised automatically. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=data-import#data-import--postcodes) ## 3. Check the values column Choose the column of numbers you want to add together, such as sales, orders or visits. Its sample heading is green. Keep one value column per dataset; import the file again with a different column if you want a second dataset. A zero remains zero; blank cells stay blank. Negative values, such as refunds, are allowed. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=data-import#data-import--values) ## 4. Read the sample The table shows the first five rows of your file so you can check the choices. It is only a sample: all rows are checked when you import. Repeated postcodes are normal when several customers or orders share a postcode; their values are added together. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=data-import#data-import--sample) ## 5. Name your dataset Use a short, clear name such as Sales 2026 or Customer visits. This is both the name in My datasets and the label beside each territory total in your legend. You do not need to name the figure separately. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=data-import#data-import--name) ## 6. Import and use on this map Click once to check the whole file, save the dataset and add it to your map. If the file is ready, the box closes and your totals appear in the legend. From the saved-map page the button is Import dataset: it saves the figures to your account for use when you next open a map. Use the map’s Save button to keep the dataset choice with that map. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=data-import#data-import--import) ## 7. If some rows need checking You will see how many rows are ready and examples of anything wrong. Nothing is silently discarded. Correct the file and use Change file to upload it again, or tick Leave out these rows and import the rest. The download link gives the list of problem row numbers and reasons. A file with no usable values cannot be imported. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=data-import#data-import--issues) ## 8. If a postcode needs one quick check A compact code such as YO18 can mean district YO18 or sector YO1 8. If the file does not make this clear, GBMaps shows both examples and asks which you intended. This question is only shown when needed. Writing sectors with a space, or using a heading such as Postcode sector, avoids the ambiguity. Keep one kind of postcode in each file. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=data-import#data-import--ambiguity) ## 9. Use figures that can be added Amounts and counts work well. Percentages and averages cannot simply be totalled: upload their underlying amounts or counts instead. Use a decimal point and up to four decimal places. Thousands commas and £ signs are accepted. A column with £ signs is displayed as pounds. Cells containing spreadsheet formulas need to be saved as their calculated values. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=data-import#data-import--numbers) ## Related guides - [Postcode areas, districts & sectors explained](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=postcode-guide) - [Additional Data: add your own figures](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=data) - [Import Excel: postcode territories](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=excel) - [Find, reopen & manage saved files](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=saved-files) - [How to make a sales heat map from your own data](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=sales-map-recipe) --- # More Maps: find the right boundaries Official GBMaps guide for the classic map maker. VectorMaps has a different interface. Source: https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=more Updated: 2026-09-29 Choose a map by the boundaries you need to colour. A more detailed map has more polygons and more labels; it is not simply a larger picture of the same map. ![More Maps: find the right boundaries — current GBMaps controls](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/more.png) The current panel, with its options expanded where useful. Select a numbered circle to read its explanation. ## 1. Search both mapping tools Type a place, map type or boundary name into the search box and use the search button. It searches the map catalogue, not your saved files and not the contents of a territory spreadsheet. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=more#more--search) ## 2. Open a map category Use the textual category headings to browse UK postcodes, ZIP codes, worldwide maps, European maps, counties, NHS, mixed and other boundaries. Open a category to see its map links. The catalogue can change as maps are added. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=more#more--categories) ## 3. Choose a map link Opens the selected map. Save your current work before leaving; the new map is a different starting point. Access can be specific to a map type, so owning one map does not automatically mean every catalogue item is unlocked. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=more#more--open) ## 4. Maps marked pro These open in the newer VectorMaps tool. It has its own interface and capabilities. The instructions in this handbook describe the classic GBMaps editor, so use the help supplied in the newer tool once you switch. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=more#more--pro) ## 5. Area, district and sector choices Areas are broad postcode regions; districts divide them into smaller pieces; sectors provide finer detail again. Choose the level that matches the data you have and the decisions the map needs to support. Use a district or sector map when broad areas cannot represent the boundaries you need. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=more#more--detail) ## Related guides - [Postcode areas, districts & sectors explained](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=postcode-guide) - [Colour whole areas or smaller districts](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=colour-mode) - [Saved maps: access, renewals & new maps](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=saved-access) - [Convert an area map to finer detail](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=conversion) - [Get a spreadsheet ready for import](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=import-checklist) --- # Help, FAQs & the newer mapping tool Official GBMaps guide for the classic map maker. VectorMaps has a different interface. Source: https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=resources Updated: 2026-09-29 Open More Maps to find Advanced Mapping at the bottom of the panel. Help & FAQs is the underlined link at the bottom-left of the tool. ![Compact Advanced Mapping card at the bottom of More Maps](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/resources.png) Open More Maps to find this card at the bottom. Help & FAQs is now a white, underlined link at the bottom-left of the tool. ## 1. Advanced Mapping: Explore VectorMaps At the bottom of More Maps, choose Explore VectorMaps to open the newer mapping tool in a separate tab, with the current map region/type passed along where supported. It is useful when you need its wider map catalogue or more complex mapping features. This link does not transfer the customised SVG map or its unsaved changes. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=resources#resources--advanced) ## 2. Find the video tutorials in this guide Choose Videos at the top of the handbook for the tutorial directory, or follow the Watch tutorial link in a relevant topic. Videos open separately, so your current map stays in place. Some show an older arrangement of the controls. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=resources#resources--videos) ## 3. Help & FAQs Choose the white, underlined Help & FAQs link in the bottom-left footer to open this illustrated handbook over the tool, with search, numbered panel pictures and tutorial links. The About GBMaps & the service section covers licences, renewals, accounts, refunds and the business. Close help or choose Back to my map to return to the same work. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=resources#resources--faq) ## 4. Quick Tour on the top toolbar Starts a guided introduction over the editor. Follow its steps or close it when you are ready to continue. A tour is useful for getting your bearings; the panel guides here go into the individual settings in more depth. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=resources#resources--tour) ## 5. If you still need a hand Use the Contact GBMaps link at the bottom of this guide. Say which map type you are using, the action you took and the exact message you received. A screenshot of the problem is useful. Keep an unsaved map open while you check what went wrong. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=resources#resources--contact) ## 6. Open in separate window Use this button at the top of the handbook to move the topic you are reading into its own browser window. The overlay closes after the new window opens, leaving your work in place. If your browser blocks the window, the guide stays open and asks you to allow pop-ups. You can place the guide beside the map while you work. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=resources#resources--separate) ## 7. Help from your saved maps The Help & FAQs link in the File Manager heading opens the same handbook, starting with saved maps and files. Back to saved maps or the close cross returns to the manager without submitting an order, renewing a licence or changing any files. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=resources#resources--file-manager) ## 8. Choose a map from the handbook Choose a map lists the postcode area, district, sector and county tools with a short explanation of their detail. The map links open a separate tab, leaving both your guide and any map you already have open available. Save existing work before deciding to close its tab. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=resources#resources--choose) ## 9. Share a help topic Choose Share topic beside Print topic at the top of any handbook article. Copy a link gives you a link to paste into a message or team chat. Send an email lets a signed-in customer enter one recipient and send a formatted GBMaps email; visitors can sign in there or use their own email app. The recipient opens a fresh map preview with that help topic already on top, then closes help to try the tool. Sharing a topic does not include your saved map, customer data or account details. If copying is blocked, select the link and use your usual copy command. If an email cannot be sent, the box explains the problem and the copy-link option remains available. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=resources#resources--share-topic) ## Related guides - [More Maps: find the right boundaries](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=more) - [Print View, Design & On Google](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=views) - [Your first coloured map](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=getting-started) - [When the map does not do what you expect](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=troubleshooting) --- # Start afresh or switch maps Official GBMaps guide for the classic map maker. VectorMaps has a different interface. Source: https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=new-map Updated: 2026-09-29 New starts another map; it does not preserve an extra version of the one on screen. Save a copy first if you want two versions of the same design. ![Start afresh or switch maps — current GBMaps controls](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/new-map.png) The current panel, with its options expanded where useful. Select a numbered circle to read its explanation. ## 1. Save & New When this choice is available on an unlocked map, it saves the current work before starting afresh. Wait for the save to finish. If saving fails, keep the current page open and deal with the error before leaving. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=new-map#new-map--save) ## 2. New Without Saving / New Map Starts afresh and leaves unsaved changes behind. The current map type is the starting choice. To choose a different boundary product, use More Maps or Create New Map beside the relevant product in your saved-map manager. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=new-map#new-map--fresh) ## 3. Cancel or the close cross Dismisses the warning and keeps the current map open. Use this when you clicked New accidentally, or want to check the design before deciding. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=new-map#new-map--cancel) ## 4. Open an existing map instead Open takes you to your saved-map manager. Its warning can offer Save & Open and Open Without Saving. Choose the first if you need your recent work, then find the required record and use EDIT. Starting a new map and opening a saved one are different jobs. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=new-map#new-map--open) ## 5. Keep both versions of a design Use Save a Copy of this map in the Save menu where it is offered, and give the copy a distinct name. This is the useful route for next month’s territories, an alternative layout or a proposal that must not replace the original. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=new-map#new-map--copy) ## Related guides - [Save, open & keep a separate copy](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=save) - [More Maps: find the right boundaries](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=more) - [Saved maps: access, renewals & new maps](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=saved-access) - [Warnings, confirmations & busy messages](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=messages) --- # Save, open & keep a separate copy Official GBMaps guide for the classic map maker. VectorMaps has a different interface. Source: https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=save Updated: 2026-09-29 Saving keeps the editable map in your account. Downloading creates a file for use elsewhere. It is worth doing both when the map is ready to share. [Watch tutorial video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i4pMhr9bAb4) Some videos show an earlier layout. The written instructions below describe the current controls; this is a guide, not a video transcript. ![Save, open & keep a separate copy — current GBMaps controls](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/coverage-save.png) Current controls. Select a numbered marker for its explanation. ## 1. Give your map a name The Save menu opens in Print View. Enter a recognisable file name, up to 35 characters. Include a place, purpose or version, for example “North delivery zones Sep”. This name identifies the saved map; it is separate from the title printed on the artwork. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=save#save--name) ## 2. Save map Stores the current editable map and all its settings. You stay in the editor and a saved confirmation appears in the Save menu. Saving an existing map updates that map; it does not create another file merely because its name changed. Wait for the confirmation before leaving. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=save#save--save) ## 3. Save copy Choose Save copy after the map has been saved once. A small box suggests a name ending in “copy”; change it to anything useful, then choose Save copy. The original is left untouched and you continue editing the new map. Cancel leaves the original name, identity and work unchanged. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=save#save--copy) ## 4. Rename without changing the map After saving once, choose Rename to change its saved name. This leaves the printed map title, map identity and existing links alone. You can also use Rename beside a map’s name on the saved-map page. Two maps can have the same name without overwriting each other, although distinct names are easier to recognise. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=save#save--rename) ## 5. Download choices The buttons under Download your map start PDF, PNG, JPG, SVG, CSV and PowerPoint exports, subject to access. The tool saves/prepares the map as part of the export process. Choose the file type for the job; see Download formats for the differences. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=save#save--formats) ## 6. Open The Open button takes you to the saved-map manager, where you can find previous editable maps and generated files. If it is unavailable, check that you are logged into the account that owns the maps. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=save#save--open) ## 7. New Starts a new map. If asked what to do with unsaved work, choose Save first if you need it, or cancel to carry on editing. Starting afresh is not a way to create a safe duplicate of the current map. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=save#save--new) ## 8. Preview on Google Opens the geographic preview from the Save area. The On Google tab is also available in the main toolbar. For current editing, return to Print View or Design; geographic background tiles are not part of the SVG artwork export. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=save#save--google) ## Related guides - [How to download your map as PDF, PNG, SVG or PowerPoint](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=downloads) - [Find, reopen & manage saved files](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=saved-files) - [Start afresh or switch maps](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=new-map) - [Your account, login & logout](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=account) - [Warnings, confirmations & busy messages](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=messages) --- # How to download your map as PDF, PNG, SVG or PowerPoint Official GBMaps guide for the classic map maker. VectorMaps has a different interface. Source: https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=downloads Updated: 2026-09-29 Check Print View before exporting: page edges, title, key, hidden layers and annotations all matter. Keep an editable copy by saving it in your account as well. [Watch tutorial video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i4pMhr9bAb4) Some videos show an earlier layout. The written instructions below describe the current controls; this is a guide, not a video transcript. ![Choose a download format — current GBMaps controls](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/save.png) The Save menu in its unlocked state. Save a Copy also appears when editing a stored map. ## 1. Adobe PDF A good choice for printing or sending a finished map as a fixed page layout. Open the created PDF and check its page size, labels and key before printing. It is not the same as reopening the map for territory editing. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=downloads#downloads--pdf) ## 2. PNG image Useful in reports, documents and web pages when sharp lettering and flat colours matter. It is a raster image: enlarging it beyond its exported resolution can soften edges. Check the small labels at the size you intend to use it, and avoid enlarging the image beyond its original resolution. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=downloads#downloads--png) ## 3. JPG image Useful when you need a widely supported photographic-style image file. JPEG compression can soften small lettering and boundary lines, so PNG or PDF may be a better choice for a detail-heavy map. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=downloads#downloads--jpg) ## 4. SVG for web or design work Exports the vector artwork. It can remain sharp when scaled in compatible software and is useful for design workflows. The SVG is not a substitute for the tool’s saved account record and settings. Fonts and rendering can vary in other applications. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=downloads#downloads--svg) ## 5. Excel CSV Exports map assignment data for a spreadsheet rather than a picture of the map. Use it to review or reuse postcode-to-territory information. It does not preserve the complete page design in the way an editable saved map does. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=downloads#downloads--csv) ## 6. PowerPoint (.pptx) Creates a genuine presentation file containing the map on a slide. It is useful for dropping a finished territory map into a meeting deck. See the PowerPoint topic for what is editable and how the artwork is included. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=downloads#downloads--pptx) ## 7. Created: Download Now or Done When the file is ready, the result message shows its details. Download Now retrieves it to your computer; your browser controls where it is saved. Done closes the result message. Check the downloaded file before sending it on. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=downloads#downloads--finish) ## 8. If an export is locked or fails Follow the access/unlock message for the selected map. If an export fails, keep the editor open, save the map if possible and note the exact error. Do not keep repeatedly clicking a busy export button. The troubleshooting topic covers the common checks. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=downloads#downloads--access) ## Related guides - [Save, open & keep a separate copy](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=save) - [Use your map in PowerPoint](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=powerpoint) - [Find, reopen & manage saved files](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=saved-files) - [Order a printed map](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=print-order) --- # Use your map in PowerPoint Official GBMaps guide for the classic map maker. VectorMaps has a different interface. Source: https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=powerpoint Updated: 2026-09-29 The PowerPoint button produces a .pptx presentation, rather than simply downloading an SVG for you to insert yourself. [Watch tutorial video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i4pMhr9bAb4) Some videos show an earlier layout. The written instructions below describe the current controls; this is a guide, not a video transcript. ![Use your map in PowerPoint — current GBMaps controls](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/save.png) The Save menu in its unlocked state. Save a Copy also appears when editing a stored map. ## 1. Prepare the print page Set the page orientation and arrange the title, key and artwork. Check Print View, including anything close to an edge. The export captures the print-page artwork even if you were working in Design. It does not export the Google background. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=powerpoint#powerpoint--prepare) ## 2. Choose PowerPoint (.pptx) Use the PowerPoint button in Save and wait for the file-created message. Choose Download Now, then open the .pptx in PowerPoint. It contains the finished map artwork on a slide. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=powerpoint#powerpoint--export) ## 3. How the map is included The map is included as SVG vector artwork with a PNG fallback for applications that cannot display the SVG. It is a map graphic on the slide, not a slide made from thousands of native PowerPoint polygon objects. Recolour territories in GBMaps for the most reliable update. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=powerpoint#powerpoint--artwork) ## 4. Add it to an existing presentation Open the exported presentation and copy the map graphic or reuse the slide in your own deck. Keep the graphic in proportion when resizing. If the deck uses a different slide shape, check its placement and margins afterwards. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=powerpoint#powerpoint--reuse) ## 5. Make a revised version Reopen the saved map in GBMaps, make the changes, save and export again. Replace the previous graphic in your deck so it does not show outdated territory assignments. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=powerpoint#powerpoint--update) ## Related guides - [How to download your map as PDF, PNG, SVG or PowerPoint](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=downloads) - [Save, open & keep a separate copy](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=save) --- # On Google: explore the geographic preview Official GBMaps guide for the classic map maker. VectorMaps has a different interface. Source: https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=google Updated: 2026-09-29 See your territory polygons against a geographic background. This view helps you inspect locations and coverage; the print artwork is still edited in Print View or Design. ![On Google: explore the geographic preview — current GBMaps controls](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/google.png) Actual geographic viewer with example territories. Background © OpenStreetMap contributors. Numbers link to the explanations. ## 1. Open On Google The tool prepares the current map and loads the viewer. While it is loading, search and other dependent controls may be unavailable. If a load fails, use the displayed Retry action. A preview may show sample colouring when the map is not unlocked. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=google#google--open) ## 2. Why the editing menus disappear The sidebar is hidden because those controls edit the SVG artwork and would not immediately change the loaded geographic preview. It cannot be opened in this view. Return to Design or Print View; the sidebar’s earlier visible/hidden state is restored. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=google#google--sidebar) ## 3. Drag to pan Hold and drag the geographic map to move around it. This changes the view of the background and overlay together. It does not drag the territory boundaries into a different geographic location. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=google#google--pan) ## 4. Wheel, pinch, double-click or + / − Use the mouse wheel, a two-finger pinch or the viewer’s zoom buttons to change scale. Double-clicking the map zooms in. These are geographic-view gestures; they do not change the scale of the map artwork on the printed page. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=google#google--zoom) ## 5. Search from the main toolbar Enter a postcode or place in the top search and run it. The viewer locates and pans/zooms to the result once ready. Clear removes the search marker/indication without erasing territory polygons. In the standalone viewer its own postcode box is available; the embedded tab uses the shared top search. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=google#google--search) ## 6. Point at the polygons Move the pointer over a polygon to see a small popup with its postcode and assigned territory name. The popup follows the pointer and disappears when you leave the polygon. This is an inspection aid; return to the editor to change the assignment. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=google#google--inspect) ## 7. See your latest changes Return to Print View or Design, edit the map, then select On Google again to prepare a fresh preview. The tab remembers its recent centre, zoom and opacity while you switch views. Do not expect an already loaded external viewer to update every keystroke in the editor. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=google#google--refresh) ## Related guides - [Google preview: opacity, key & extent](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=google-controls) - [Show only your assigned territories](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=hide-unassigned) - [Print View, Design & On Google](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=views) - [How to download your map as PDF, PNG, SVG or PowerPoint](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=downloads) --- # Google preview: opacity, key & extent Official GBMaps guide for the classic map maker. VectorMaps has a different interface. Source: https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=google-controls Updated: 2026-09-29 The preview has its own display controls. They help you read the geographic background without changing the colours or page composition of the SVG map. ![Google preview: opacity, key & extent — current GBMaps controls](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/google-controls.png) Actual geographic viewer with example territories. Background © OpenStreetMap contributors. Numbers link to the explanations. ## 1. Opacity slider Move the slider towards 0 to make the polygon fills more transparent, or towards 1 for stronger fills. A lower value lets background roads and labels show through. It changes the preview overlay’s fill opacity, not the saved print-map colours. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=google-controls#google-controls--opacity) ## 2. Reset the geographic view The target-style reset control returns to the viewer’s overview extent. It is separate from Fit map in the artwork editor. Use it when you have panned away from the area you meant to inspect. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=google-controls#google-controls--reset) ## 3. The preview key Shows territory colours, names and enabled extra legend text. Hold and drag this key to move it clear of an important part of the geographic map. Its entries are for reference: they do not select a territory for painting or reorder the SVG key. Unlike the portrait SVG key, this viewer key has no dedicated wheel-resize control. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=google-controls#google-controls--key) ## 4. Assigned polygons only Hide unassigned areas carries through to this polygon overlay. The base map remains visible outside the coloured territories. If you see roads or place names there, those can be part of the background rather than unassigned postcode polygons. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=google-controls#google-controls--focus) ## 5. Opening a geographic view from saved files Open the Google/view link for the saved map. New views are private to your account until you choose Share this view and confirm that anyone with the link may see the map and its labels. Copy public link gives you the viewing address; it does not let another person edit your map or open your account. Stop sharing switches off the public link and any embeds using it. Existing published links continue to work until their owner stops sharing them. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=google-controls#google-controls--sharing) ## 6. Move the preview key Drag the key with the mouse or a single finger to place it away from the geography you are inspecting. The movement belongs to this viewer. To place the key for a PDF, return to the editor and move the SVG key there. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=google-controls#google-controls--key-drag) ## Related guides - [On Google: explore the geographic preview](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=google) - [Show only your assigned territories](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=hide-unassigned) - [Find, reopen & manage saved files](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=saved-files) --- # Log in or unlock from the sidebar Official GBMaps guide for the classic map maker. VectorMaps has a different interface. Source: https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=login Updated: 2026-09-29 The unlock panel lets returning users identify their account and new users see the current offer. Logging in and buying access are separate actions. ![Log in or buy 12 months of map access — current GBMaps controls](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/login.png) The current sidebar panel with Log in expanded. The highlighted price covers the full 12 months; your map type may have a different price. Select a number for its explanation. ## 1. Log in The upper Log in button opens the email field. Use it if you already have an account or map access associated with an email address. Opening the field does not make a purchase. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=login#login--open) ## 2. Email address Enter the email used for your purchase, then click Log in or press Enter. The password sign-in box opens over your map. Enter your password there, or choose Set or reset my password if this is your first password or you have forgotten it. The Signing in & passwords section shows every step and the messages you may see. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=login#login--email) ## 3. Cancel Closes the expanded email area if you opened it by mistake. It does not log a currently signed-in user out; use Log out in the account menu for that. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=login#login--cancel) ## 4. Unlock all features The highlighted price is one payment, plus VAT, for the full 12 months of access to the selected map type. It is not a monthly charge. There are no monthly fees or automatic renewal. Prices vary by map type, so use the price on your own panel rather than the example pictured here. You can explore a sample before buying; unlocking removes watermarks and gives you access to the saving and download features listed. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=login#login--offer) ## 5. Buy 12 months’ access Opens the payment-method dialog for the selected map. Review its title, price and terms, then choose a payment method if you want to continue. Returning users should log in first so existing access can be recognised. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=login#login--buy) ## Related guides - [Sign in to your maps](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=sign-in) - [Your first password: keep your existing maps](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=first-password) - [Forgotten your password?](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=password-reset) - [Your account, login & logout](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=account) - [Buy, unlock or renew a map](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=payments) --- # Sign in to your maps Official GBMaps guide for the classic map maker. VectorMaps has a different interface. Source: https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=sign-in Updated: 2026-09-29 Already have a GBMaps account? Use the email address attached to your purchase and your password. Signing in does not buy another licence or change your map. If you used to enter just an email address and have never chosen a password, start with Your first password. ![Sign in to your maps — actual GBMaps dialog with example details](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/auth-sign-in.png) Real GBMaps dialog with an example account. Select a numbered circle for its explanation; View larger makes the wording easier to read. ## 1. Your email address Use the address used for your map purchase. A personal address and a work address are different accounts, even when they belong to the same person. Check the spelling and the ending, such as .co.uk or .com. The example address in these pictures is not an account to use. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=sign-in#sign-in--email) ## 2. Your password Enter the password you chose for GBMaps. It is case-sensitive: capital letters and lower-case letters are different. You can paste it or let your password manager fill it in. The same password covers the map types attached to this email address. It is not your email mailbox password. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=sign-in#sign-in--password) ## 3. Show / Hide Show reveals what you have typed so you can check it; Hide conceals it again. Use this only when nobody nearby can read your screen. This button does not change or submit your password. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=sign-in#sign-in--show) ## 4. Continue to my maps Checks your details and continues with your map or the saved-map page you were opening. Wait for the check to finish rather than clicking repeatedly. If the password box is empty, Continue starts email verification instead; it does not sign you in using the email address alone. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=sign-in#sign-in--continue) ## 5. Set or reset my password Use this if you have forgotten your password or have never set one. It opens the code-request screen. You do not need the old password, but you must be able to receive email at the account address. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=sign-in#sign-in--reset) ## 6. Close sign in The cross closes the box without signing you in. When the box is over the editor, your map remains there, including unsaved changes. Closing the box is not a save. On a separate sign-in page, use its sign-in button to open the box again. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=sign-in#sign-in--close) ## 7. Signed in, but asked to renew? Sign-in proves which account is yours; a licence gives that account access to a particular map type. You can sign in and see saved maps even if a licence has expired. Use the renewal option for that map type. Do not buy again simply because you have forgotten a password. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=sign-in#sign-in--licence) ### What this looks like Real GBMaps dialogs with example account details. Choose View larger to read a message clearly. ![Your map is unlocked — actual GBMaps message](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/auth-map-unlocked.png?v=1790670434) [**Your map is unlocked**](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=sign-in#sign-in--licence) Your existing access has been recognised for the selected map type. Signing in has not made another purchase. ## Related guides - [Your first password: keep your existing maps](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=first-password) - [Forgotten your password?](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=password-reset) - [Cannot sign in or receive a code?](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=sign-in-problems) - [Saved maps: access, renewals & new maps](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=saved-access) --- # Your first password: keep your existing maps Official GBMaps guide for the classic map maker. VectorMaps has a different interface. Source: https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=first-password Updated: 2026-09-29 If you have used GBMaps for years by entering only your email address, you still have the same account. You do not need to register again or pay again to set a password. We first check that you can receive email at that address, so somebody else cannot claim your maps just by knowing it. ![Your first password: keep your existing maps — actual GBMaps dialog with example details](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/auth-request.png) Real GBMaps dialog with an example account. Select a numbered circle for its explanation; View larger makes the wording easier to read. ## 1. Start with your existing account email Choose Log in in the sidebar, enter your existing account email in the small email box, then press its Log in button. In the sign-in dialog, choose Set or reset my password and check the address. You can also begin from the first sign-in box by leaving the password blank and choosing Continue to my maps. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=first-password#first-password--address) ## 2. Email my verification code Click once to request a six-digit code. Keep this tab open and check that inbox, preferably in your email app or another tab. You do not need to enter a mobile number or wait for an SMS. If an error says no code was sent, stay here and follow that message. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=first-password#first-password--request) ## 3. Enter the six digits in the same browser Return to the Check your email box, enter the code and choose Check my code. It lasts 60 minutes and belongs to the browser where you requested it. The Email verification codes topic explains resending, incorrect codes and expired codes. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=first-password#first-password--code) ## 4. Choose your password After the code is accepted, the heading changes to Make this account yours. Choose a password of 8–50 characters; several words can make it easier to remember. Click Save my password. Your saved maps, colours and licences are kept as they are. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=first-password#first-password--choose) ## 5. Sign in after saving the password The message Your password is saved confirms that setup succeeded. Enter the password you have just chosen and click Continue to my maps. Setting a password and signing in are two separate steps; this final sign-in is expected. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=first-password#first-password--finish) ## 6. Back to sign in Returns to the ordinary sign-in box. You can close the box and come back later, but a code or an already verified setup can expire while you are away. If it has expired, request another code. Nothing is changed until Save my password succeeds. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=first-password#first-password--pause) ## 7. Several map types or a shared business account One email and password cover the licences already attached to that address; there is no separate password for each map type. If GBMaps has linked your own email to another account’s licences, use your own email and verify your own inbox. Do not send another person your password or verification code. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=first-password#first-password--products) ### What this looks like Real GBMaps dialogs with example account details. Choose View larger to read a message clearly. ![Next: check your email — actual GBMaps message](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/auth-email-code.png?v=1790670434) [**Next: check your email**](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=first-password#first-password--code) The tool waits here for the six digits from your email. ![Finished setup: now sign in — actual GBMaps message](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/auth-password-saved.png?v=1790670434) [**Finished setup: now sign in**](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=first-password#first-password--finish) This message confirms that your password was saved. Enter it to continue. ## Related guides - [Email verification codes: enter, resend or start again](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=email-code) - [Choose and save your password](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=choose-password) - [Sign in to your maps](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=sign-in) - [Cannot sign in or receive a code?](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=sign-in-problems) --- # Forgotten your password? Official GBMaps guide for the classic map maker. VectorMaps has a different interface. Source: https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=password-reset Updated: 2026-09-29 You can choose a replacement password without knowing the old one. The code goes to the email address already associated with your maps. Resetting the password does not delete your designs, use a map credit or renew a licence. ![Forgotten your password? — actual GBMaps dialog with example details](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/auth-request.png) Real GBMaps dialog with an example account. Select a numbered circle for its explanation; View larger makes the wording easier to read. ## 1. Check the account address In the sign-in box, choose Set or reset my password. Check the email address carefully, especially if your browser filled it in. Use the purchase address, not a different inbox you now prefer. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=password-reset#password-reset--address) ## 2. Email my verification code Requests the code and takes you to Check your email. Your old password is not needed on this screen. Requesting a code alone does not replace it; the change happens when a verified new password is successfully saved. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=password-reset#password-reset--request) ## 3. Check the code, save a password, then sign in Read the email, enter the six digits in this browser and choose Check my code. Choose your new password, click Save my password, then use that new password to sign in. If a password manager offers to update its saved entry, make sure it is updating the GBMaps entry for the right email. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=password-reset#password-reset--finish) ## 4. Back to sign in Use this if you remember the password or started a reset by mistake. The existing password still works unless a replacement has already been saved. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=password-reset#password-reset--back) ## 5. What happens on your other devices Saving a replacement password signs out older sessions on other browsers and devices. They will need the new password. If a map is open elsewhere, keep the page open, sign in when asked and repeat the save rather than discarding that work. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=password-reset#password-reset--devices) ## 6. Cannot use the old email address? Contact GBMaps with your order or invoice details. We need to establish that the account is yours before changing its address. Do not create another account or buy again to try to recover the old maps. Support will not need you to send your password or a verification code. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=password-reset#password-reset--inbox) ## 7. A code arrived that you did not request Do not share or enter it for anyone else. Requesting a code does not itself change your password, so an unexpected message can be ignored. If you are concerned, return to GBMaps yourself and reset your password from there. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=password-reset#password-reset--unexpected) ### What this looks like Real GBMaps dialogs with example account details. Choose View larger to read a message clearly. ![Your password is saved — actual GBMaps message](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/auth-password-saved.png?v=1790670434) [**Your password is saved**](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=password-reset#password-reset--finish) Use the replacement password for the next sign-in, including on other devices. ## Related guides - [Email verification codes: enter, resend or start again](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=email-code) - [Choose and save your password](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=choose-password) - [Warnings while choosing a password](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=password-warnings) - [Asked to sign in again while working](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=sign-in-again) --- # Email verification codes: enter, resend or start again Official GBMaps guide for the classic map maker. VectorMaps has a different interface. Source: https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=email-code Updated: 2026-09-29 The Check your email box appears when you set a first password or reset an existing one. The six-digit code proves that you can use that inbox. It is temporary and is different from the password you will choose afterwards. ![Email verification codes: enter, resend or start again — actual GBMaps dialog with example details](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/auth-email-code.png) Real GBMaps dialog with an example account. Select a numbered circle for its explanation; View larger makes the wording easier to read. ## 1. Email verification code Type or paste the six digits, without spaces or extra text. Keep this tab open while checking your email. A code requested here cannot be used in a different browser, a private window or another device. If you requested a replacement in this browser, use its newest code. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=email-code#email-code--enter) ## 2. Check my code Checks the digits and opens Make this account yours when they are accepted. A code lasts 60 minutes and works once. After five incorrect guesses you must request a fresh code; do not keep guessing. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=email-code#email-code--check) ## 3. Send a new code Use this if the code has expired or the email did not arrive. Allow at least a minute between requests; repeated requests can mean a longer wait. Requesting a new code in this browser replaces its previous one. If emails arrive out of order, use the most recently requested code. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=email-code#email-code--resend) ## 4. Back to sign in Returns to the email and password boxes. Use this to correct the email address: choose Set or reset my password again, enter the correct address and request another code. Going back does not change your password. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=email-code#email-code--back) ## 5. There is no email in my inbox Check junk, spam and any company email filter, then check the address you entered. Give delivery a little time before requesting another code. The wording If this email address has a GBMaps account is deliberate: this screen does not confirm whether an address is registered. If nothing arrives, contact GBMaps with your purchase details. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=email-code#email-code--missing) ## 6. That code is not correct Compare all six digits with the newest email requested in this browser. Check that you have not copied an older message. An incorrect attempt does not change your password. The red message appears in the same box so you can correct the digits. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=email-code#email-code--incorrect) ## 7. This code has expired or has been used Choose Send a new code and use the replacement. This message can also appear after too many incorrect guesses, after the code was already accepted, or if you are no longer in the browser session that requested it. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=email-code#email-code--expired) ### What this looks like Real GBMaps dialogs with example account details. Choose View larger to read a message clearly. ![An incorrect code — actual GBMaps message](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/auth-code-error.png?v=1790670434) [**An incorrect code**](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=email-code#email-code--incorrect) Check the newest message and correct the digits; do not keep trying the same code. ![An expired or used code — actual GBMaps message](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/auth-expired-code.png?v=1790670434) [**An expired or used code**](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=email-code#email-code--expired) Request a fresh code. There is no password change to undo. ## Related guides - [Choose and save your password](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=choose-password) - [Cannot sign in or receive a code?](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=sign-in-problems) - [Forgotten your password?](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=password-reset) --- # Choose and save your password Official GBMaps guide for the classic map maker. VectorMaps has a different interface. Source: https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=choose-password Updated: 2026-09-29 Make this account yours means your email code has been accepted. You can now choose a password for this GBMaps email address. Complete this step within 10 minutes of verifying the code; if you leave it too long, verify your email again. ![Choose and save your password — actual GBMaps dialog with example details](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/auth-choose-password.png) Real GBMaps dialog with an example account. Select a numbered circle for its explanation; View larger makes the wording easier to read. ## 1. Your password Use 8–50 characters. Spaces are welcome and special symbols are not compulsory. Several unrelated words can be easier to remember than a short jumble. Choose your own phrase: do not use the example in a screenshot, a familiar keyboard sequence or a password used on another website. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=choose-password#choose-password--password) ## 2. Show / Hide There is one password field, so use Show to check it before saving. Hide conceals it again. Pasting from a password manager is allowed. Keep the screen private while the password is visible. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=choose-password#choose-password--show) ## 3. Save my password Saves the password for this account and its map types. Wait for the confirmation before assuming it has worked. If red wording appears, read it and correct the problem; the tool has not accepted the new password. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=choose-password#choose-password--save) ## 4. Back to sign in Leaves this step and returns to the ordinary sign-in box. It does not save the password you typed. If you already had a working password and have not saved a replacement, that previous password is unchanged. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=choose-password#choose-password--back) ## 5. Your password is saved You are returned to the sign-in box with this confirmation. Enter the new password and choose Continue to my maps. This final sign-in is required after both first-time setup and a reset; being asked again is not an error. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=choose-password#choose-password--saved) ## 6. Keep the password and codes to yourself GBMaps support does not need your password or email verification code. Anyone you give these to may be able to use your account. On a shared computer, decline the browser’s offer to remember the password and use Log out when you finish. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=choose-password#choose-password--protect) ### What this looks like Real GBMaps dialogs with example account details. Choose View larger to read a message clearly. ![Password saved: one last step — actual GBMaps message](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/auth-password-saved.png?v=1790670434) [**Password saved: one last step**](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=choose-password#choose-password--saved) Sign in using the password you have just saved. ## Related guides - [Sign in to your maps](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=sign-in) - [Warnings while choosing a password](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=password-warnings) - [Forgotten your password?](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=password-reset) --- # Cannot sign in or receive a code? Official GBMaps guide for the classic map maker. VectorMaps has a different interface. Source: https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=sign-in-problems Updated: 2026-09-29 Most sign-in problems can be resolved in the same box without leaving your map. The pictures below show the actual warnings. Follow the advice for the message you see; repeatedly clicking Continue or requesting codes is unlikely to help. ![Cannot sign in or receive a code? — actual GBMaps dialog with example details](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/auth-login-error.png) Real GBMaps dialog with an example account. Select a numbered circle for its explanation; View larger makes the wording easier to read. ## 1. We could not sign you in Check the account email and password, including capital letters. Use Show to look for a typing mistake if your screen is private. If you have never set a password, or cannot remember it, choose Set or reset my password. The message deliberately does not say whether it was the email or password that failed. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=sign-in-problems#sign-in-problems--details) ## 2. No verification code has been sent The tool could not connect to its email service. Your password has not changed and there is no new code to wait for from that attempt. Leave the map open and try again shortly. If this continues, contact GBMaps and quote the message rather than repeatedly submitting the form. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=sign-in-problems#sign-in-problems--mail) ## 3. There have been several attempts Requests or guesses are temporarily limited. Stop and wait before trying again. A resend needs at least a minute; lots of requests or sign-in attempts can take longer to clear. The button becoming available does not guarantee that the waiting period has ended. This message does not mean your maps have been deleted. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=sign-in-problems#sign-in-problems--wait) ## 4. The code screen opened, but nothing arrived The code screen uses conditional wording and cannot promise delivery to every typed address. Check the account address, junk folder and any company filter. Use the Email verification codes topic for the resend steps. If you cannot get into the account inbox, contact GBMaps with order details. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=sign-in-problems#sign-in-problems--delivery) ## 5. Sign-in is temporarily unavailable Keep the map open and try again shortly. This is a service problem, not a request to buy another licence. If the box says to reopen sign-in, close that box and open it again. If the problem persists, tell GBMaps the exact wording and which step you reached. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=sign-in-problems#sign-in-problems--service) ## 6. Asked to use the secure address Use the GBMaps page beginning with https://. Do not enter your password into a warning page or an unfamiliar website. Keep an unsaved map open while you check the correct address in another tab. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=sign-in-problems#sign-in-problems--secure) ### What this looks like Real GBMaps dialogs with example account details. Choose View larger to read a message clearly. ![Email service could not be reached — actual GBMaps message](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/auth-mail-error.png?v=1790670434) [**Email service could not be reached**](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=sign-in-problems#sign-in-problems--mail) No code was sent by this attempt. Your existing password stays unchanged. ![Please wait before trying again — actual GBMaps message](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/auth-wait-error.png?v=1790670434) [**Please wait before trying again**](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=sign-in-problems#sign-in-problems--wait) Repeated clicks can extend the problem. Wait, then make one attempt. ## Related guides - [Sign in to your maps](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=sign-in) - [Forgotten your password?](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=password-reset) - [Email verification codes: enter, resend or start again](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=email-code) - [Warnings while choosing a password](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=password-warnings) --- # Warnings while choosing a password Official GBMaps guide for the classic map maker. VectorMaps has a different interface. Source: https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=password-warnings Updated: 2026-09-29 These messages appear after email verification, while you are choosing the password. A warning means the password has not been saved. Keep the box open and follow its wording; you do not need to recreate your map or buy access again. ![Warnings while choosing a password — actual GBMaps dialog with example details](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/auth-password-short.png) Real GBMaps dialog with an example account. Select a numbered circle for its explanation; View larger makes the wording easier to read. ## 1. Use a password of 8–50 characters The password is outside the allowed length. Add more words if it is too short, or shorten it if it is too long, then try Save my password again. Spaces count. There is no need to add punctuation simply to satisfy a symbol rule. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=password-warnings#password-warnings--length) ## 2. That password is too easily guessed Choose a different phrase. A repeated common password, a run of numbers or an obvious keyboard pattern can still be rejected even when it is long enough. Do not make a tiny variation of the rejected example. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=password-warnings#password-warnings--simple) ## 3. The password has changed since this code was requested Another password change completed after this verification began. Go Back to sign in and use the latest password. If you do not know it, request a fresh code and complete a new reset. The older verification cannot overwrite the newer password. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=password-warnings#password-warnings--changed) ## 4. Please verify your email address before setting a password The verified setup step has expired or is no longer available in this browser session. Go Back to sign in, choose Set or reset my password and request another code. After it is accepted, choose and save the password promptly. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=password-warnings#password-warnings--expired) ### What this looks like Real GBMaps dialogs with example account details. Choose View larger to read a message clearly. ![A password that is too easy to guess — actual GBMaps message](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/auth-password-easy.png?v=1790670434) [**A password that is too easy to guess**](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=password-warnings#password-warnings--simple) Choose a different phrase instead of retrying the same password. ![A newer password change already exists — actual GBMaps message](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/auth-password-changed.png?v=1790670434) [**A newer password change already exists**](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=password-warnings#password-warnings--changed) Use the latest password or begin a fresh reset. ## Related guides - [Choose and save your password](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=choose-password) - [Email verification codes: enter, resend or start again](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=email-code) - [Forgotten your password?](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=password-reset) --- # Asked to sign in again while working Official GBMaps guide for the classic map maker. VectorMaps has a different interface. Source: https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=sign-in-again Updated: 2026-09-29 A sign-in can end after a period of inactivity, when you log out in another tab, or when the password is reset. The editor opens sign-in over your existing map. Keep that page open: closing or refreshing the whole page can discard work you have not saved. ![Asked to sign in again while working — actual GBMaps dialog with example details](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/auth-sign-in-again.png) Real GBMaps dialog with an example account. Select a numbered circle for its explanation; View larger makes the wording easier to read. ## 1. Sign back in over the map Enter the account email and its current password, then choose Continue to my maps. The map stays behind the box. If the password was changed on another device, use the replacement. Closing the sign-in box leaves the map visible but does not restore account access. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=sign-in-again#sign-in-again--signin) ## 2. Repeat the save or download When You are signed in again appears, dismiss the message and repeat the save or download you were making. The interrupted action is not automatically repeated. Check that the save reaches My saved maps, or that the expected file downloads, before leaving. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=sign-in-again#sign-in-again--repeat) ## 3. Your sign-in was updated in another tab The tool has refreshed its sign-in information. Read and dismiss the message, then repeat your save or download. Keep the current map open. If it asks for the password again, sign in and try the action once more. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=sign-in-again#sign-in-again--tabs) ## 4. How long a sign-in lasts A sign-in lasts up to 12 hours and has a two-hour inactivity limit. A password reset also ends older sessions on other devices. These limits apply to signing in, not to how long a saved map is kept. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=sign-in-again#sign-in-again--time) ## 5. Moving to My saved maps An active sign-in is carried into the saved-map manager; you should not have to enter the password for each visit. A direct bookmark can ask you to sign in first, then return you to the permitted page. If the account cannot access a map, check that it belongs to the email you used. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=sign-in-again#sign-in-again--manager) ## 6. Finish with Log out on a shared computer Open the account menu and choose Log out. Save & Logout saves first; Logout Without Saving leaves unsaved changes behind; Cancel keeps you in the editor. Do not assume that merely closing a tab signs you out. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=sign-in-again#sign-in-again--logout) ### What this looks like Real GBMaps dialogs with example account details. Choose View larger to read a message clearly. ![Signed in again: repeat the action — actual GBMaps message](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/auth-session-restored.png?v=1790670434) [**Signed in again: repeat the action**](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=sign-in-again#sign-in-again--repeat) The confirmation explains that the interrupted save or download still needs to be repeated. ## Related guides - [Sign in to your maps](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=sign-in) - [Forgotten your password?](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=password-reset) - [Save, open & keep a separate copy](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=save) - [Your account, login & logout](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=account) --- # Your account, login & logout Official GBMaps guide for the classic map maker. VectorMaps has a different interface. Source: https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=account Updated: 2026-09-29 Use the same account email for your map access and saved work. An empty file list can simply mean you have opened a different account. ![Your account, login & logout — current GBMaps controls](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/account.png) Actual tool layout with example details. Your map names, access and prices may differ. Numbers link to the explanations. ## 1. Open the account menu Use the account control above Save, Open and New. It shows the current account state and the available login/account actions. On a shared computer, check the displayed email before saving work. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=account#account--menu) ## 2. Your email and password One email address and password cover all the map types on your account. Use the email associated with your purchase. A successful sign-in carries through to the saved-map manager, so you do not need to sign in again when you save or open a map. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=account#account--login) ## 3. Verify your email before choosing a password The tool sends a six-digit code to your account email address. Enter it in the sign-in box within 60 minutes, then choose a password of 8–50 characters. A phrase of several words is easy to remember; spaces are allowed. Your password is saved securely, and you can then sign in. Account verification uses email, not a mobile phone number. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=account#account--mobile) ## 4. Save before logging out The logout confirmation offers Save & Logout, Logout Without Saving and Cancel. Save & Logout keeps the current work before ending the session. Without Saving leaves unsaved changes behind. Cancel returns you to the map. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=account#account--logout) ## 5. Leaving for the homepage or another map Read the leave-page warning. Leave without saving discards unsaved work; Keep editing or Cancel stays on the map. A browser’s own leave-page prompt can look different from the tool’s styled dialogs. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=account#account--leaving) ## 6. Check for invoices In the expanded account menu, choose Check for invoices to retrieve the available invoice links. Open the relevant link to get the paperwork. This does not open your saved maps or download a map image. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=account#account--invoices) ## 7. Forgotten password or missing code Choose Set or reset my password in the sign-in box. Check that you entered the email used for your purchase, including its ending, and look in your junk folder. Send a new code is available after a short wait. Too many incorrect attempts expire the code. After setting a new password, older signed-in sessions are closed, so your other devices will need the new password. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=account#account--password-recovery) ## 8. No longer have access to that inbox? Contact GBMaps Support with your order or invoice details. We need to establish that the account is yours before changing its email address; knowing an email address or a mobile number is not enough. Please do not send your password to support. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=account#account--lost-inbox) ## 9. If the tool asks you to sign in again A sign-in lasts for up to 12 hours, with a two-hour inactivity limit. If a session ends while you are editing, the sign-in box opens over the map so your work stays on screen. Sign in, then repeat the save or download. On a shared computer, use Log out when you finish. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=account#account--session) ## Related guides - [Sign in to your maps](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=sign-in) - [Forgotten your password?](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=password-reset) - [Asked to sign in again while working](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=sign-in-again) - [Log in or unlock from the sidebar](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=login) - [Save, open & keep a separate copy](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=save) - [Saved maps: access, renewals & new maps](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=saved-access) - [Buy, unlock or renew a map](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=payments) - [Warnings, confirmations & busy messages](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=messages) --- # Saved maps: access, renewals & new maps Official GBMaps guide for the classic map maker. VectorMaps has a different interface. Source: https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=saved-access Updated: 2026-09-29 Sign in to use the saved-map manager. It remembers the sign-in from the editor and shows the maps belonging to that account. A saved design can still be listed when access to its map type needs renewing: an expired licence does not prevent you from signing in to renew it. [Watch tutorial video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i4pMhr9bAb4) Some videos show an earlier layout. The written instructions below describe the current controls; this is a guide, not a video transcript. ![Saved maps: access, renewals & new maps — current GBMaps controls](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/saved-access.png) Actual tool layout with example details. Your map names, access and prices may differ. Numbers link to the explanations. ## 1. Read Map Access Check the map type and its access/expiry information. Access applies to the listed product or map type. A district map and a sector map can have different access states. Do not infer that every map is unlocked from one active entry. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=saved-access#saved-access--access) ## 2. Renew Opens payment for the specific map type whose access has expired or is due for renewal. Check the product title and amount in the payment dialog before choosing a payment method. The saved-map version keeps the relevant renewal context. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=saved-access#saved-access--renew) ## 3. Buy / Unlock these maps Opens the purchase options for the selected map type. It is used for a sample or locked product rather than changing a territory’s colour. Prices and available terms are shown by the current offer. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=saved-access#saved-access--unlock) ## 4. Create a new map Starts a new editable map of the chosen type. Use it when you need a clean starting point. To branch an existing design, reopen that design and use Save a Copy instead. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=saved-access#saved-access--create) ## 5. Invoice links Where an invoice link is available, use it to retrieve the paperwork for that purchase. It is separate from downloading the map artwork. If a purchase or invoice is missing, check the account email and contact GBMaps with the relevant details. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=saved-access#saved-access--invoice) ## Related guides - [Sign in to your maps](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=sign-in) - [Find, reopen & manage saved files](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=saved-files) - [Buy, unlock or renew a map](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=payments) - [More Maps: find the right boundaries](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=more) --- # Find, reopen & manage saved files Official GBMaps guide for the classic map maker. VectorMaps has a different interface. Source: https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=saved-files Updated: 2026-09-29 Open in the editor takes you to this page. Editable maps, spreadsheet exports and finished PDF files have different actions because they are different kinds of record. [Watch tutorial video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i4pMhr9bAb4) Some videos show an earlier layout. The written instructions below describe the current controls; this is a guide, not a video transcript. ![Find, reopen & manage saved files — current GBMaps controls](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/saved-files.png) Actual tool layout with example details. Your map names, access and prices may differ. Numbers link to the explanations. ## 1. Sort the list Click a column heading such as file ID, map type, orientation, date or map name to reorder the list. Clicking the active sort heading changes direction. Use a meaningful saved-map name to make older versions easier to recognise. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=saved-files#saved-files--sort) ## 2. Edit an editable map Use the map’s Edit/open action to return to the tool with its saved territories and settings. A PDF or CSV row is a generated file, so opening it does not provide the same editable map controls. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=saved-files#saved-files--edit) ## 3. Rename a saved map Use Rename beside the map name, enter the new name and confirm. The map keeps its identity, artwork and existing links. This changes the editable map’s label; it does not rewrite text inside previously downloaded files. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=saved-files#saved-files--rename) ## 4. The … actions menu Opens the additional actions for that row. Depending on the record and account state, these can include CSV creation, ExportVM, transfer, conversion, printing or deletion. Read the row name before choosing an action. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=saved-files#saved-files--actions) ## 5. Create CSV Generates assignment data from the saved map for spreadsheet use. A converted map may need to be opened and saved before this action becomes available. CSV files are listed separately from editable maps. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=saved-files#saved-files--csv) ## 6. ExportVM Downloads the saved Map4 data as a JSON package for a transfer/import workflow. It is a data export, not a PDF and not an automatic opening of the map in VectorMaps. Keep the file intact for the receiving importer. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=saved-files#saved-files--vm) ## 7. Open or download generated files Use the relevant file row to retrieve a saved CSV or PDF. A generated file is a snapshot from the time it was created. If you change the editable map, export a new file to include those changes. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=saved-files#saved-files--files) ## 8. Delete the selected record Check the record before clicking Delete. Editable maps have a confirmation and a restriction on deleting recently created maps. The current PDF and CSV delete buttons can act immediately, without that confirmation. Deleting a generated file is different from deleting the editable map that produced it. Keep any copy you still need. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=saved-files#saved-files--delete) ## 9. Renew or Buy in a file row These appear when access is needed for that map type. Follow the selected row’s action so the payment refers to the correct product. They are access controls, not file-download buttons. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=saved-files#saved-files--locked) ## Related guides - [Save, open & keep a separate copy](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=save) - [Convert an area map to finer detail](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=conversion) - [Transfer a saved map to another account](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=transfer) - [Order a printed map](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=print-order) - [How to download your map as PDF, PNG, SVG or PowerPoint](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=downloads) --- # Saved-map row: the options menu Official GBMaps guide for the classic map maker. VectorMaps has a different interface. Source: https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=saved-actions Updated: 2026-09-29 The three-dot button opens actions for one editable saved map. The available choices depend on the map type, access and whether a conversion has been opened and saved. [Watch tutorial video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i4pMhr9bAb4) Some videos show an earlier layout. The written instructions below describe the current controls; this is a guide, not a video transcript. ![Saved-map row: the options menu — current GBMaps controls](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/saved-actions.png) Actual tool layout with example details. Your map names, access and prices may differ. Numbers link to the explanations. ## 1. Order Print Opens the print-order form for this map. Check the map ID and selected version before ordering a physical print. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=saved-actions#saved-actions--print) ## 2. ExportVM Downloads a JSON data package containing the saved Map4 record. Keep the complete file for a compatible import workflow. This action does not convert the map artwork to PDF or automatically open it in the Pro tool. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=saved-actions#saved-actions--vm) ## 3. Create CSV Asks to export the saved map’s assignments as a spreadsheet file. Confirm the map ID in the message. The generated CSV appears in the file manager’s spreadsheet section. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=saved-actions#saved-actions--csv) ## 4. Delete Checks whether the editable map is old enough to delete and then asks you to confirm the map ID. This is different from the PDF and CSV delete buttons, which can act without a confirmation. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=saved-actions#saved-actions--delete) ## 5. Transfer Opens the recipient-account dialog. It moves ownership of this saved map, so use a separate copy if you need to keep your own version. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=saved-actions#saved-actions--transfer) ## 6. Convert to District / Sector Opens the supported finer-detail conversion for this map. A converted copy is created; the original remains. Review and save the converted map before exporting its data. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=saved-actions#saved-actions--convert) ## Related guides - [Find, reopen & manage saved files](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=saved-files) - [Transfer a saved map to another account](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=transfer) - [Convert an area map to finer detail](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=conversion) - [Order a printed map](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=print-order) --- # Convert an area map to finer detail Official GBMaps guide for the classic map maker. VectorMaps has a different interface. Source: https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=conversion Updated: 2026-09-29 The saved-map manager offers supported conversions so you can start from an existing broad territory design rather than colour every smaller polygon from scratch. [Watch tutorial video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i4pMhr9bAb4) Some videos show an earlier layout. The written instructions below describe the current controls; this is a guide, not a video transcript. ![Convert an area map to finer detail — current GBMaps controls](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/conversion.png) Actual tool layout with example details. Your map names, access and prices may differ. Numbers link to the explanations. ## 1. Available conversions For the supported UK postcode maps, an area map offers Convert to District, and a district map offers Convert to Sector. This is a move to finer detail. It is not a general conversion between any two maps in the catalogue. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=conversion#conversion--choices) ## 2. Read the conversion dialog Check the source and target, then choose Convert Now or Cancel. Conversion creates a separate upgraded copy in your account with “Conv. ” added to its name; the original is retained. If you do not have access to the new map type, the resulting map may require a purchase before you can use its unlocked features. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=conversion#conversion--confirm) ## 3. Open and inspect the converted map Review the inherited colouring, labels and page layout. Smaller polygons give you more precise editing, but also more detail to arrange. Open and save the converted result before relying on downstream file actions such as CSV creation. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=conversion#conversion--review) ## 4. Refine individual districts or sectors Select the detailed Colour: mode, click the zone name you want in the legend, then click the smaller shapes on the map to assign them to that zone. If you later colour a whole parent area, the whole-area warning protects the mixed assignments you have made. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=conversion#conversion--refine) ## Related guides - [Find, reopen & manage saved files](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=saved-files) - [Colour whole areas or smaller districts](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=colour-mode) - [Saved maps: access, renewals & new maps](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=saved-access) --- # Transfer a saved map to another account Official GBMaps guide for the classic map maker. VectorMaps has a different interface. Source: https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=transfer Updated: 2026-09-29 Transfer moves the selected saved map to a recipient account. Use it when handing over ownership of the editable work, rather than simply sending a PDF for someone to read. ![Transfer a saved map to another account — current GBMaps controls](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/transfer.png) Actual tool layout with example details. Your map names, access and prices may differ. Numbers link to the explanations. ## 1. Recipient email Open Transfer from the correct saved-map row and enter the intended recipient’s account email. Check the spelling carefully. The account and access checks happen as part of the transfer flow. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=transfer#transfer--recipient) ## 2. Move Now Starts the transfer of the selected map. Read any follow-up confirmation before proceeding. This is an ownership action, so keep a separate saved copy first if you need to retain your own version. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=transfer#transfer--move) ## 3. Recipient map access Having a map transferred does not necessarily give the recipient an active licence for its map type. Follow any access or renewal message rather than assuming the transfer includes a new purchase. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=transfer#transfer--access) ## 4. When a download is enough If the recipient only needs to view or print the finished map, send a PDF or image instead. That avoids moving the editable map out of your account. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=transfer#transfer--instead) ## Related guides - [Find, reopen & manage saved files](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=saved-files) - [Saved maps: access, renewals & new maps](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=saved-access) - [How to download your map as PDF, PNG, SVG or PowerPoint](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=downloads) --- # Buy, unlock or renew a map Official GBMaps guide for the classic map maker. VectorMaps has a different interface. Source: https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=payments Updated: 2026-09-29 The editor and saved-map manager use the same payment-dialog design. The selected map and reason for purchase still matter: a new unlock and a renewal are different actions. ![Buy, unlock or renew a map — current GBMaps controls](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/payment.png) Actual tool layout with example details. Your map names, access and prices may differ. Numbers link to the explanations. ## 1. Check the product title Read the map name and whether the dialog says Unlock or Renew. In the saved-map manager it follows the row you selected, which may differ from the map you were editing previously. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=payments#payments--product) ## 2. Check the current price and terms The dialog shows the selected offer and its details. Use those figures rather than an example screenshot in this guide; prices, VAT and access periods can change. Read the included information before continuing. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=payments#payments--price) ## 3. Choose a payment method Select one of the offered card or PayPal options. This proceeds to the corresponding payment flow; it is not just a colour or style choice. Complete the provider’s steps and wait for the return/confirmation before assuming the map is unlocked. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=payments#payments--method) ## 4. Questions before buying Open the questions/FAQ section for the current purchase information. It expands within the dialog and can be folded away again. For an account-specific issue, contact GBMaps with the map type and account email. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=payments#payments--faq) ## 5. Close or Escape Closes the chooser without selecting a payment method. It returns you to the editor or saved-map page. Closing a chooser is different from cancelling a payment after you have already moved into a provider’s checkout. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=payments#payments--close) ## Related guides - [Saved maps: access, renewals & new maps](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=saved-access) - [Your account, login & logout](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=account) - [How to download your map as PDF, PNG, SVG or PowerPoint](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=downloads) --- # Order a printed map Official GBMaps guide for the classic map maker. VectorMaps has a different interface. Source: https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=print-order Updated: 2026-09-29 Where Order Print or Poster Print is offered, you can request a physical print of the saved artwork. Prepare the map carefully before ordering. [Watch tutorial video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i4pMhr9bAb4) Some videos show an earlier layout. The written instructions below describe the current controls; this is a guide, not a video transcript. ![Order a printed map — current GBMaps controls](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/print-order.png) Actual tool layout with example details. Your map names, access and prices may differ. Numbers link to the explanations. ## 1. Choose the correct saved map or PDF Open the print action from the row for the version you want. Check the title, date, orientation and artwork before ordering; an older exported PDF does not automatically pick up later edits. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=print-order#print-order--artwork) ## 2. Choose the offered print options Select the size and other print options shown in the order dialog. The displayed price updates for the current choices. Use the live options and price, rather than relying on a price in this guide’s example image. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=print-order#print-order--options) ## 3. Complete the order details Enter the requested contact and delivery information accurately. Check the address and any order notes before continuing. A postcode here is a delivery detail, not a command to move the map. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=print-order#print-order--details) ## 4. Continue with the order The order button submits the print-order request/flow shown by the dialog. Read its confirmation and payment instructions. Use the close control to leave the dialog if you only wanted to inspect the options. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=print-order#print-order--order) ## Related guides - [How to download your map as PDF, PNG, SVG or PowerPoint](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=downloads) - [Find, reopen & manage saved files](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=saved-files) - [Portrait, landscape & square pages](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=orientation) --- # Print order: finish, size & delivery Official GBMaps guide for the classic map maker. VectorMaps has a different interface. Source: https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=print-delivery Updated: 2026-09-29 The print form has two stages. Choosing Continue reveals the delivery fields; Place Order is the submission action. The example uses invented details. ![Print order: finish, size & delivery — current GBMaps controls](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/print-delivery.png) Actual tool layout with example details. Your map names, access and prices may differ. Numbers link to the explanations. ## 1. Print Finish Choose between the offered finishes, currently Glossy Encapsulated Print and 180GSM Paper Poster Print. Use the current form if the range changes. The choice affects the quoted price. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=print-delivery#print-delivery--finish) ## 2. Print Size Select A0, A1, A2 or A3 from the current list. The dimensions are shown beside each size. Check that your small text will be readable at that size before ordering. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=print-delivery#print-delivery--size) ## 3. Print Quantity and Total Price Enter a whole-number quantity of at least one. The displayed total changes with size, finish and quantity, and the form states whether delivery is included. Review the total before placing the order. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=print-delivery#print-delivery--quantity) ## 4. Continue Reveals the delivery section after you have chosen the print options. It does not by itself submit the final order. You can still check the visible options and price. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=print-delivery#print-delivery--continue) ## 5. Delivery name Enter the name of the person or organisation receiving the print. This field is required. It does not rename the saved map. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=print-delivery#print-delivery--name) ## 6. Address 1 and Address 2 Address 1 is required; Address 2 is optional. Include the building, business or unit information needed to get the parcel to the right place. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=print-delivery#print-delivery--address) ## 7. City, County and Post Code Complete the required locality, county and postcode fields as requested by this form. Check them before submission; this postcode is the delivery address and has no effect on the map centre. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=print-delivery#print-delivery--town) ## 8. Place Order Submits the print order. Wait for the success message or correct any required-field error. Avoid repeated clicks while the request is in progress. Use the close cross if you do not want to submit an order. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=print-delivery#print-delivery--order) ## Related guides - [Order a printed map](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=print-order) - [Find, reopen & manage saved files](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=saved-files) --- # Warnings, confirmations & busy messages Official GBMaps guide for the classic map maker. VectorMaps has a different interface. Source: https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=messages Updated: 2026-09-29 Read the action words on a message before clicking. A colourful warning is there to explain a consequence, not simply to be dismissed. Message styling can vary while the newer design is being tried. ![Warnings, confirmations & busy messages — current GBMaps controls](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/message-example.png) The current panel, with its options expanded where useful. Select a numbered circle to read its explanation. ## 1. Keep editing, Cancel or Close Usually returns you to the current task without taking the proposed leave/delete action. In a draft editor such as Legend details, Cancel also leaves draft changes unapplied. Read the message if it describes a different result. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=messages#messages--keep) ## 2. Delete, Replace or Leave without saving These confirm an action that removes or replaces work, or leaves unsaved changes behind. Check the named map, layer or territory. Save a copy first when the previous version may still be useful. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=messages#messages--destructive) ## 3. Save & continue / Save & Logout Saves the current work before the next action when that option is offered. Wait for saving to finish. If an error appears, do not assume the save completed merely because you clicked the button. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=messages#messages--save) ## 4. Created, saved and download messages These confirm the result and may offer Download Now, Done or a next action. A file-created message means the export is ready; the browser still needs to download it to your device if you want a local copy. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=messages#messages--success) ## 5. Spinning wheel or progress message The tool is working on a save, lookup, import or export. Avoid repeated clicks while it is busy. If the operation fails, note the exact message and return to the relevant settings rather than closing an unsaved map immediately. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=messages#messages--busy) ## 6. Original and New message styles The tool uses colourful messages by default. The Messages control lets you change their presentation, and remembers your choice in this browser. Older browsers that cannot display the new dialogs use the original messages. Browser-native warnings may keep the browser’s own appearance. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=messages#messages--style) ## Related guides - [Colour whole areas or smaller districts](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=colour-mode) - [Save, open & keep a separate copy](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=save) - [Your account, login & logout](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=account) - [When the map does not do what you expect](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=troubleshooting) --- # How to create a postcode sales territory map Official GBMaps guide for the classic map maker. VectorMaps has a different interface. Source: https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=territory-recipe Updated: 2026-09-29 Choose a postcode area, district or sector map, add your territory names in START HERE, then select a name in the key and click the polygons it should contain. You can colour territories by hand or import a postcode-to-team spreadsheet. This guide takes you from a blank map to a saved, printable result. [Watch tutorial video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TSoytGAOJg0) Some videos show an earlier layout. The written instructions below describe the current controls; this is a guide, not a video transcript. ## 3. Choose the next zone ![York team is now selected in the legend. Its postcode shapes around York are blue, while the North team territory remains green.](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/example-two-zones.png) Select York team in the legend, then click its shapes on the map. They turn blue; the existing North team shapes remain green. If you click a shape already owned by another zone, you move it into the zone you have selected. ## After hiding ![The same Yorkshire map at the same scale, with surrounding unassigned shapes and labels hidden. The two coloured territories and their relevant map detail remain.](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/example-unassigned-after.png) Hide unassigned areas keeps the assigned territory and the useful detail within it, including relevant place labels and parts of wider boundaries. It hides the surrounding artwork rather than deleting it. Use the same control again to restore the full map. ## 1. Choose enough boundary detail Use districts or sectors if broad postcode areas cannot describe the territories accurately. Create the team names in START HERE and give them distinct colours. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=territory-recipe#territory-recipe--choose) ## 2. Build the territories Click a team’s zone name in the legend, then click inside each map shape you want to colour for that team. Select the next team in the legend before clicking its shapes. Watch Colour: as you zoom. Keep individual district assignments when the whole-area warning appears unless you really intend to replace them. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=territory-recipe#territory-recipe--assign) ## 3. Remove the unused country Turn on the useful labels and boundaries in Map details, then choose Hide unassigned areas. Adjust Regions & Insets if an inset or region is unnecessary for this map. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=territory-recipe#territory-recipe--focus) ## 4. Make the key useful Add a clear title, arrange the key and add contact details if needed. Resize the key so a person can read it in the final document, not just when zoomed in. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=territory-recipe#territory-recipe--explain) ## 5. Save and check the download Save a named editable version. Export PDF for print, PNG for a document, or PowerPoint for a presentation. Open the downloaded file and check the edges, labels and key before sharing it. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=territory-recipe#territory-recipe--deliver) ## Related guides - [START HERE: names, colours & territories](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=colouring) - [Show only your assigned territories](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=hide-unassigned) - [Extra text beneath key entries](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=legend-details) - [How to download your map as PDF, PNG, SVG or PowerPoint](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=downloads) --- # How to colour a postcode map from a spreadsheet Official GBMaps guide for the classic map maker. VectorMaps has a different interface. Source: https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=spreadsheet-recipe Updated: 2026-09-29 Use Import Excel when your spreadsheet lists postcode areas, districts or sectors beside territory names. Matching polygons receive the territory colours and the map key is built for you. For numerical sales or population figures, use Additional Data or Heat Maps instead. [Watch tutorial video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QXFxOiq1m-A) Some videos show an earlier layout. The written instructions below describe the current controls; this is a guide, not a video transcript. ## 1. Prepare a clean table Use one row per postcode polygon with its territory name beside it. Remove headings from the copied selection. Check that the postcode level matches the map and that the names are consistent. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=spreadsheet-recipe#spreadsheet-recipe--prepare) ## 2. Choose automatic or supplied colours Use Import Excel for automatic colours. Use Import with colours if the spreadsheet already contains the desired colour names. Keep all columns aligned. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=spreadsheet-recipe#spreadsheet-recipe--import) ## 3. Inspect the result Compare a few known territories against the spreadsheet. Investigate unexpected extra key entries or blank areas before changing the design. The key should represent the intended groups. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=spreadsheet-recipe#spreadsheet-recipe--inspect) ## 4. Prepare the page Add a title, make the key readable and choose useful map details. Hide unassigned areas if only the imported territories should be shown. Save with a meaningful name and export the required format. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=spreadsheet-recipe#spreadsheet-recipe--finish) ## Related guides - [Import Excel: postcode territories](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=excel) - [Excel import with your own colours](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=excel-colours) - [Get a spreadsheet ready for import](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=import-checklist) - [Save, open & keep a separate copy](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=save) --- # How to map a depot and its delivery coverage Official GBMaps guide for the classic map maker. VectorMaps has a different interface. Source: https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=coverage-recipe Updated: 2026-09-29 Use Radial Circles for straight-line distance or Distance/Time for estimated travel by road. Both can turn the coverage into coloured postcode territories using Colour postcodes. The result selects whole polygons by their centres, rather than cutting boundaries at the edge of a circle or travel area. [Watch tutorial video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W4-LXbJ53kI) Some videos show an earlier layout. The written instructions below describe the current controls; this is a guide, not a video transcript. ## Marker boxes on the map ![A Thirsk depot marker has a blue label box above its location with an arrow pointing down to it. A Malton office marker uses a purple label below its point and a line call-out.](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/example-markers.png) These are placed marker boxes: each label is connected to a location on the map. One uses an arrow with the text above the point; the other uses a line with the text below it. You can change the wording, text size, colours and call-out, and move a selected marker using Place on map. ## Different dots and shapes ![A Yorkshire map with a green circle, blue square, yellow triangle, purple hexagon and orange star at different locations. A larger hollow dashed circle appears around York.](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/example-dots.png) Advanced dots can use circles, squares, triangles, hexagons and stars. Different shapes and colours help distinguish depots, customers or other location types. The larger hollow circle demonstrates a coverage-style outline; the basic dot controls also let you adjust fill, transparency and line appearance. These are example positions. ## Distance rings on the map ![Three concentric circles over Yorkshire share one centre. Blue, green and rust-coloured rings are labelled 5 miles, 10 miles and 15 miles.](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/example-circles.png) A set of three rings with a 5-mile interval gives radii of 5, 10 and 15 miles from the same centre. The labels and line colours make the distances easy to distinguish. These are straight-line distances, so they are useful for a radius-based service area; use Distance/Time for a journey-based view. ## Travel areas on the map ![Three nested irregular travel-area bands over a Yorkshire map, with a separate key for 10, 20 and 30 minutes. The screenshot states that the contours are illustrative, not a calculated journey.](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/example-travel.png) Isochrones are travel-area shapes. Their irregular edges show why a time-based catchment can look very different from a circle: the available network affects how far you can travel. This is an illustrative display made with the tool’s renderer, not a calculated route or journey-time estimate. Use Create areas with your own starting location and settings to calculate your map. ## 1. Mark the depot Use a marker box for a named depot, or a postcode dot for a simple symbol. Position it by full postcode where possible. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=coverage-recipe#coverage-recipe--centre) ## 2. Draw straight-line rings Use Radial Circles for fixed distances around the depot. Add sets to compare several depots. Use linked settings when each depot should be measured on the same scale. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=coverage-recipe#coverage-recipe--distance) ## 3. Or calculate travel areas Use Distance/Time for road-based travel. Set the outer limit and number of bands, then calculate. Check that the displayed result is useful for the purpose of the map. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=coverage-recipe#coverage-recipe--roads) ## 4. Colour the postcodes within reach Click Colour postcodes in Radial Circles, Create Dots or Distance/Time. Matching uses each map polygon’s centre and colours the whole polygon. On an already-coloured map, Add to existing preserves current territories while Replace colouring uses only the chosen coverage. The key is created for you, and one Undo puts it back. You do not need a postcode results list or a spreadsheet import. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=coverage-recipe#coverage-recipe--territories) ## Related guides - [Radial Circles: distance rings](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=circles) - [Several circle centres & linked settings](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=circle-sets) - [Distance/Time: road-travel areas](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=travel) - [Marker Boxes: labelled places](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=markers) - [Colour postcodes inside dots](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=dots-postcodes) - [Colour postcodes inside circles](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=circle-postcodes) - [Colour postcodes inside travel areas](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=travel-postcodes) --- # How to make a sales heat map from your own data Official GBMaps guide for the classic map maker. VectorMaps has a different interface. Source: https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=sales-map-recipe Updated: 2026-09-29 Upload your postcode figures once in Additional Data, then use Heat Maps to shade the map by those values. You can also attach the same figures to manually coloured territories and show totals in the key. Detailed postcode values can be added together for a broader postcode map. ## 1. Choose your boundaries Choose the postcode map that gives the level of detail you need. Sector or full-postcode figures can be totalled for compatible district and area maps. Broad area totals cannot tell you the true values for individual sectors. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=sales-map-recipe#sales-map-recipe--choose) ## 2. Upload and name your figures Open Additional Data, choose My datasets, then Upload data. Drop your CSV into the upload area or choose a file. Check the sample, select the postcode column and the numerical value column, then give the dataset a meaningful name and import it. Your saved dataset can be reused on future maps in your account. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=sales-map-recipe#sales-map-recipe--upload) ## 3. Colour the map by value Open Heat Maps and choose your dataset and numerical measure. Choose how to group the values, the number of colour bands and a colour ramp. Check the preview and choose Create heat map. The resulting key explains the value ranges. Read the Heat Maps guide for the available grouping and number-format options. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=sales-map-recipe#sales-map-recipe--shade) ## 4. Or show totals for your own territories For sales teams or delivery patches, colour your territories as usual and tick the dataset in Additional Data. Its name and totals appear in the key. Reorder the additional data entries if you want the totals in a different order. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=sales-map-recipe#sales-map-recipe--totals) ## 5. Check coverage and missing values Check the matched postcodes and any partial-total warning before relying on the result. Missing data is different from a genuine zero. Compare a known area with your original spreadsheet, especially when combining more detailed postcode records into larger areas. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=sales-map-recipe#sales-map-recipe--check) ## 6. Save the editable map, then download Give the map a clear name and save it to your account. Choose a download format such as PDF for printing or PNG for a report. Check the legend and the finished file before sharing it. Account access and download availability depend on your map licence. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=sales-map-recipe#sales-map-recipe--save) ## Related guides - [Upload your postcode figures](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=data-import) - [Heat Maps: colour areas by their values](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=heat-maps) - [Additional Data: add your own figures](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=data) - [Postcode areas, districts & sectors explained](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=postcode-guide) - [How to download your map as PDF, PNG, SVG or PowerPoint](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=downloads) --- # When the map does not do what you expect Official GBMaps guide for the classic map maker. VectorMaps has a different interface. Source: https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=troubleshooting Updated: 2026-09-29 Start with the state of the controls. A hidden layer, the wrong colouring level or an unapplied draft often explains an unexpected result. ## 1. A click colours too much Read Colour:. On a detailed map it may be set to whole areas. Switch to the smaller boundary level. If a warning appears, Keep existing colours leaves your detailed work intact. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=troubleshooting#troubleshooting--click) ## 2. A click moves a circle or marker A placement checkbox is still on. Untick Place centre on map or Place on map when positioning is finished, then select the territory you want to colour. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=troubleshooting#troubleshooting--placement) ## 3. Scrolling changes the key, not the map Move the pointer off the key before scrolling. The key and travel legend deliberately have their own resize behaviour. Use their reset controls if they have become too small or moved out of view. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=troubleshooting#troubleshooting--key) ## 4. A label, polygon or location has disappeared Check its visibility switch, the region/inset controls and Hide unassigned areas. For imported London locations, check main-map versus inset placement. For a lookup, check the reported successful/missing rows. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=troubleshooting#troubleshooting--missing) ## 5. Google looks different or the menus vanish The geographic preview has a different background and rendering from the SVG page. Its editing sidebar is intentionally hidden. Go back to Design or Print View to edit, then reopen On Google to refresh it. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=troubleshooting#troubleshooting--google) ## 6. Rows will not import correctly Check headings, blank rows, row counts and postcode level. Advanced location settings accept either one shared value or a complete column. Read the exact row/column error and correct the source data. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=troubleshooting#troubleshooting--import) ## 7. A saved map or purchase is missing Check the account email and selected map type. A generated PDF is separate from an editable map. Refresh the file list after a successful save, but keep unsaved work open until you know it has been stored. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=troubleshooting#troubleshooting--save) ## 8. An export fails Keep the editor open and note the exact error text, chosen format, map type and whether a normal save succeeds. Try again only after the previous attempt has finished. If it persists, contact GBMaps with those details; a console status number alone is less useful than the response message. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=troubleshooting#troubleshooting--export) ## 9. The download cuts off part of the design Return to Print View and inspect all page edges. Move the artwork, key or annotation inside the page and export again. Design can show artwork outside the final page, which is useful while editing but does not enlarge the download. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=troubleshooting#troubleshooting--clipped) ## Related guides - [Cannot sign in or receive a code?](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=sign-in-problems) - [Print View, Design & On Google](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=views) - [Colour whole areas or smaller districts](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=colour-mode) - [Get a spreadsheet ready for import](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=import-checklist) - [Save, open & keep a separate copy](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=save) - [On Google: explore the geographic preview](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=google) --- # Map words & gesture quick reference Official GBMaps guide for the classic map maker. VectorMaps has a different interface. Source: https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=glossary Updated: 2026-09-29 A few terms are used throughout the tool. Knowing the difference helps you choose the right control. ## 1. Territory, zone and key entry A named group of assigned polygons. The tool uses “zone” in some import fields and “team” in older explanations. The key, also called a legend, tells the reader what those colours mean. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=glossary#glossary--territory) ## 2. Area, district, sector and full postcode YO is a postcode area; YO18 is a district; YO18 7 is a sector; YO18 7TG is a full postcode. Boundary maps and location tools use these at different levels. A full postcode location is not the same thing as a polygon for every individual address. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=glossary#glossary--postcode) ## 3. Polygon, boundary and label A polygon is a map shape that can receive a territory assignment. Its boundary is the line around it; its label is the text naming it. Visibility and colour controls can affect each separately. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=glossary#glossary--polygon) ## 4. Radius, interval and band Radius is the distance from a centre to a circle’s edge. Interval is the step between successive ring radii. A travel band is one part of a road-distance or travel-time result. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=glossary#glossary--radius) ## 5. Gesture reminder Map: click to colour, drag to move, wheel/pinch to zoom. Key: click a name to select, click a square to recolour, drag a name to reorder vertically, drag the background to move, wheel over a portrait key to resize. Google: drag to pan, wheel/pinch/double-click or +/− to zoom; it does not paint territories. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=glossary#glossary--gestures) ## 6. Hide, delete, clear and cancel Hide retains an item for later. Delete removes the named map item or record. Clear text/columns empties an input and may leave existing artwork alone. Cancel in a draft dialog leaves its unapplied changes out of the map. Read the exact control because these are not interchangeable. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=glossary#glossary--hide) ## Related guides - [Postcode areas, districts & sectors explained](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=postcode-guide) - [Colour whole areas or smaller districts](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=colour-mode) - [Move, zoom & frame the map](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=map-gestures) - [Click, drag & resize the key](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=key-gestures) - [On Google: explore the geographic preview](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=google) --- # Ask the map assistant Official GBMaps guide for the classic map maker. VectorMaps has a different interface. Source: https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=map-assistant Updated: 2026-09-29 Try the assistant with five visitor messages a day, or sign in for twenty. Tell it what you want to make, or ask about something that is not working as expected. It can make changes to your open map, or give short steps with links to the illustrated instructions. ## 1. Ask in your own words Choose Map assistant near the bottom right of the tool. You can try it before signing in. Your account allowance appears as soon as you sign in; there is no need to refresh the page. Type a question such as “How do I keep my logo in the corner?” or choose one of the example questions. Press Ask, or press Enter. Shift + Enter starts a new line. You can drag the assistant by its heading to move it out of the way. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=map-assistant#map-assistant--open) ## 2. Ask while you read a guide Look for Ready when you are near the top of each help page. Type your question or describe what you would like to make, then choose Ask. The assistant knows which topic you are reading. Inside the mapping tool, this continues your existing map conversation and can offer changes for you to approve. In a separate help page, the chat opens below the heading and explains what to do; it is not connected to an editable map. Browse other topics without losing your conversation or an unsent question. Close the chat to read on, then choose Continue chat to return. Your usual daily allowance and first-question notification tracking apply across help and the tool. The small greeting settles by itself and is turned off when your browser requests reduced motion. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=map-assistant#map-assistant--help-pages) ## 3. Show me how The answer gives a few short steps. Each Show me where button opens the relevant panel and briefly highlights the controls for that step. For example, one can point to a territory name box and the next to its colour swatch. You can use the buttons in any order or click one again to see its highlight. These buttons only highlight controls. If you would like the assistant to do the work, ask it to make the change and use the separate Make these changes button. Ask a follow-up if a step is not clear. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=map-assistant#map-assistant--steps) ## 4. Let it do the work Try “Split this map into North and South, with blue for North and green for South” or “Add three 10-mile circles around YO18 7TG”. Read the short plan, then choose Make these changes. Watch the progress in the answer. You can ask for titles, colours, map details, legend notes, shapes, text, image layout, circles, markers, a small list of dots, insets, travel areas and shading from a saved dataset. Existing items can be changed by name or number. A north/south split uses the centres of the map polygons at the map’s midpoint; it is not a formal regional boundary. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=map-assistant#map-assistant--edit) ## 5. Build it up, one change at a time Keep talking in the same conversation. After creating three markers, try “Move those three to YO18 7TG, LS1 1UR and M1 1AD”, then “Make the second marker blue and call it Leeds office”. The assistant can move or restyle the same markers without adding replacements. Check that the plan says Edit existing marker when you want a tweak; Add marker means another marker will be created. You can also refine existing shapes, text, territories, circles and other supported items. Names help when there are several similar items. If it is unclear which one you mean, the assistant should ask. After a manual edit or Undo, ask again so it uses the current map. Start again clears the conversation, not your map. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=map-assistant#map-assistant--followups) ## 6. Colour the postcodes within reach Try “Colour the postcodes inside my circles and keep my existing territories” or “Use this travel analysis to replace all current postcode colouring”. The assistant can create circles or a small set of dots first and then colour their coverage in the same job. Existing travel areas are reused without another route calculation. Add keeps already-coloured areas; Replace clears their colours and key entries, so check the plan. Black circle or dot outlines are given automatic zone colours; other chosen coverage colours are kept. You can ask to change a territory colour afterwards. The selection tests polygon centres, not every individual address. Undo this job restores the whole change. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=map-assistant#map-assistant--coverage) ## 7. Change your mind Choose Undo this job to put the map back as it was before the assistant started. The ordinary Undo and Redo buttons also work. If you have made other edits afterwards, use the main Undo button to step back through them first. If the map changes while a plan is being prepared, ask again so the assistant uses your latest version. Undo changes the open map; it does not delete a saved copy or refund a travel calculation. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=map-assistant#map-assistant--undo) ## 8. Your files stay under your control The assistant can arrange an image already on the page and use a dataset already in your account. It can open the correct panel when you need to choose a new file. You still choose files and check the import columns yourself. Heat maps replace existing territory colours, so check the proposed job first. Save requests create a first save or a separate copy; they do not overwrite another saved map. Downloads save the current map and open the normal export process and may still ask you to choose save or download options. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=map-assistant#map-assistant--files) ## 9. Travel areas without wasted calculations Ask for a starting place, a distance or travel time, and the number of bands. One job can create one analysis with up to five bands and uses the normal travel allowance. Changing colours, names, labels or visibility reuses the existing result. Saved travel polygons reopen without being calculated again. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=map-assistant#map-assistant--journeys) ## 10. See the pictures Choose Read guide below an answer for the full illustrated instructions. When you are already reading help, Ask about this topic brings you back to the assistant with that topic in mind. Close the assistant to continue working; your conversation stays here until you leave the page or choose Start again. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=map-assistant#map-assistant--guides) ## 11. Help that fits the map you have open Use my map settings shares settings such as map type and layout, the names and positions of map items, territory names, and dataset names and column headings. It does not attach your map artwork, uploaded files, sales figures or account email. Untick it for general guidance without automatic editing. What does the assistant see? explains what is sent. Open it and scroll down inside that section to read the details. Do not type passwords, verification codes or private customer information into a question. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=map-assistant#map-assistant--context) ## 12. Your daily messages Signed-in users can send 20 AI messages a day; visitors can try 5. Follow-up questions count too. Allowances reset at midnight UTC (1am UK time during British Summer Time). The assistant shows what is left. Visitor checks also consider the connection you use; if a shared office connection has used its trial, sign in for your own allowance. Service spending limits may temporarily pause AI. The small line below the heading tells you which is available. Handbook search finds relevant guides without using an AI allowance, including when AI is not enabled or has reached its limit. The blue question marks throughout the tool always open the normal help pages. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=map-assistant#map-assistant--availability) ## 13. How we use chats GBMaps keeps questions, validated replies, topics, helpfulness ratings and reported editing results for up to 90 days to understand problems and improve the tool. Authorised staff can read these private records. To understand initial use, your first question may also be emailed to GBMaps support. That internal mailbox copy is managed separately from automatic chat expiry; follow-up questions do not send more emails for the same account or recognised visitor. They are linked to an account reference or a visitor reference, not displayed publicly. We do not automatically save your attached map settings or uploaded files in these records. Common email addresses and obvious key or password patterns are masked, but this cannot catch everything: do not type confidential information. Start again clears the chat on your screen; it does not delete the feedback record. Contact GBMaps if you need help accessing or deleting a conversation record. After expiry, anonymous counts of topics and outcomes can remain. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=map-assistant#map-assistant--privacy) ## 14. Visitor checks and your information A first-party security cookie called MCSASSISTANT recognises your visitor trial for up to 30 days and may renew when you return. Server-side counters enforce limits; daily protected references derived from your connection help prevent repeated trials and abuse. We use these checks to run a secure service, not for advertising. Your question, recent conversation and chosen map settings are sent to OpenAI for an AI answer. OpenAI has its own API retention rules. GBMaps uses conversation feedback to improve this service and security records to protect it; it does not use these records to train a public model. You can read the handbook without asking the assistant. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=map-assistant#map-assistant--visitor-privacy) ## 15. Tell us what helped Choose Yes, helpful or Not helpful below an answer. We also receive a small status update when you apply an assistant job, undo it with Undo this job, or it fails. These reports help us spot awkward controls and missing features. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=map-assistant#map-assistant--ratings) ## 16. Check before an important change AI answers can make mistakes. Use the linked guide if you are unsure, save a copy before trying changes you may want to undo, and contact GBMaps for an account or payment question that needs a person to investigate. The assistant cannot see your private account records. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=map-assistant#map-assistant--check) ## Related guides - [Your first coloured map](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=getting-started) - [How to create a postcode sales territory map](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=territory-recipe) - [Help, FAQs & the newer mapping tool](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=resources) --- # How we use assistant chats Official GBMaps guide for the classic map maker. VectorMaps has a different interface. Source: https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=assistant-privacy Updated: 2026-09-29 The map assistant is optional. This explains what GBMaps records, who can see it and how it helps us improve the mapping tool. ## 1. Who looks after this information? GBMaps operates the mapping tool and is responsible for these conversation and security records. You can contact us through Contact GBMaps in the assistant or the contact details in this site’s footer. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=assistant-privacy#assistant-privacy--who) ## 2. Questions help us make a better tool We keep the questions you submit, validated replies, guide and tool names, helpfulness ratings, and browser reports of whether an assistant job was applied, failed or undone. Conversations are linked to a protected account or visitor reference. Authorised GBMaps staff can search these records to understand problems and improve features and help. We do not automatically copy your attached map settings, drawings, uploaded files or sales rows into these conversation records. Information you type yourself may appear in them. Common email, password and key patterns are masked, but masking cannot find every piece of private information. Please do not include passwords, verification codes or confidential customer details. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=assistant-privacy#assistant-privacy--records) ## 3. A first-question email to our support team To understand initial use, a copy of your first recorded question is emailed internally to the GBMaps support mailbox. It includes the time, whether you are signed in and a protected reference, with the same masking as the chat record. It does not automatically include your account email or attached map settings. Follow-up conversations do not send another email for the same account or recognised visitor. Mailbox copies are managed separately: automatic chat expiry does not delete emails. Contact GBMaps to include mailbox copies in an information or deletion request. A minimal protected reference is retained to prevent repeat notifications, even after the chat itself expires. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=assistant-privacy#assistant-privacy--first-question) ## 4. What is sent for an AI answer? Your question, recent conversation and, if Use my map settings is ticked, limited map settings and item names are sent to OpenAI to produce the answer. The assistant does not automatically attach your account email, image contents, full artwork or uploaded spreadsheet rows. OpenAI operates the AI service under its own API data arrangements; its retention is separate from the GBMaps conversation record. Information may be processed outside the UK under the provider arrangements for this service. Handbook search works within GBMaps without an AI request. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=assistant-privacy#assistant-privacy--provider) ## 5. Why we use it We use these records for our legitimate interests in providing useful map assistance, understanding support problems, improving the tool and preventing abuse. They are not public, are not used for advertising, and GBMaps does not use them to train a public AI model. You can use the map and illustrated handbook without submitting an assistant question. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=assistant-privacy#assistant-privacy--why) ## 6. How long do we keep it? GBMaps conversation text is kept for up to 90 days, with automatic expiry and a scheduled cleanup. Anonymous totals about topics, usage and outcomes may remain afterwards. Pseudonymous usage and cost records are kept separately for up to 120 days to enforce allowances and reconcile usage. Start again clears your chat on this page; it does not erase the private feedback record. Deleting conversation text does not reset a message allowance. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=assistant-privacy#assistant-privacy--expiry) ## 7. Visitor trials and security The first-party MCSASSISTANT security cookie recognises a visitor trial for up to 30 days and may renew when you return. It is not an advertising cookie. Protected daily references derived from the connection address help detect repeated trials after cookies are cleared. We do not put raw connection addresses in the conversation reports. The normal site and security logs remain subject to the main site privacy policy. A shared office connection may reach its visitor trial allowance; signing in gives each verified account its own allowance. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=assistant-privacy#assistant-privacy--cookie) ## 8. Your choices and rights Contact GBMaps if you want access to your information, want it corrected or deleted, or wish to object to this processing or ask for it to be restricted. Include an approximate date and the account you used; for a visitor conversation, a short description helps us locate it. We may need to verify that a request concerns your own information. Depending on the circumstances, data protection rights and limits apply. You can also raise a concern with the UK Information Commissioner’s Office. This notice supplements the main GBMaps privacy policy. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=assistant-privacy#assistant-privacy--rights) ## Related guides - [Ask the map assistant](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=map-assistant) - [Help, FAQs & the newer mapping tool](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=resources) --- # Unlocking maps Official GBMaps guide for the classic map maker. VectorMaps has a different interface. Source: https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=service-unlocking Updated: 2026-09-29 Licences, access and what is included. These are the service questions from Help & FAQs. For help with an individual setting, use the illustrated menu topics. ## 1. What do I get when I unlock a map? You are paying to use our map customisation tools for this particular map type.  You can then import/export/save as pdf or excel and see your map overlaid on a google style map (and much more). [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=service-unlocking#service-unlocking--included) ## 2. How long does an unlock last? 12 months. You can use the tool as much as you like within that time and create, save, download as often as you need to over that time. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=service-unlocking#service-unlocking--duration) ## 3. Does it renew automatically? No. We don’t store any payment details so you don’t need to worry. We’ll remind you in 12 months time but that’s it. If you lapse a few weeks it’s no problem, all your maps will still be there. After that, they may be deleted. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=service-unlocking#service-unlocking--renewal) ## 4. Does one unlock cover every map type? No. All our different maps are priced individually. You wouldn’t want to pay a premium to have access to a collection of maps you’ll never use. You find the map you need and you can create as many versions/revisions/copies etc. of that map type as you want. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=service-unlocking#service-unlocking--map-types) ## 5. What is the additional free licence? Unlocking the UK Postcode District map also includes a Postcode Area map licence for 12 months. Unlocking the UK Postcode Sector map includes a Postcode District map licence for 12 months. These are the additional licences offered for those two products; an unlock does not cover every map type. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=service-unlocking#service-unlocking--free-licence) ## Related guides - [Buy, unlock or renew a map](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=payments) - [Saved maps: access, renewals & new maps](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=saved-access) - [Help, FAQs & the newer mapping tool](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=resources) --- # Upgrades & refunds Official GBMaps guide for the classic map maker. VectorMaps has a different interface. Source: https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=service-upgrades Updated: 2026-09-29 Changing your map type and refund questions. These are the service questions from Help & FAQs. For help with an individual setting, use the illustrated menu topics. ## 1. Can I upgrade my map type? Absolutely you can. People often buy the cheapest map to make sure the site is legitimate and then get in touch to say they really need the more expensive map. Totally understandable and we’re happy for you to do this. Simply buy the map you need and we’ll refund you the original purchase price straight away. (Must be done within a couple of days.) [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=service-upgrades#service-upgrades--upgrade) ## 2. Can I downgrade my map? Sort of. We’ll swap your map type to a simpler type but can’t refund you the difference. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=service-upgrades#service-upgrades--downgrade) ## 3. I don’t use the tool, can I have a refund? If you haven’t ‘saved’ any maps, we’re happy to give you a full refund. Once you’ve saved a map it’s possible but unlikely. Each account has a record of activity timestamped into the database so people who buy, create, save, delete then ask for a refund will not be given one. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=service-upgrades#service-upgrades--refund) ## Related guides - [Buy, unlock or renew a map](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=payments) - [Saved maps: access, renewals & new maps](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=saved-access) - [Help, FAQs & the newer mapping tool](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=resources) --- # Accounts & sharing Official GBMaps guide for the classic map maker. VectorMaps has a different interface. Source: https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=service-accounts Updated: 2026-09-29 Using your licence and managing your account. These are the service questions from Help & FAQs. For help with an individual setting, use the illustrated menu topics. ## 1. Can I buy one license and share it with the rest of the office? No. We use some cool A.I. to detect when people are sharing an unlock to create maps. We’ve created a part of the site where you can share your maps with as many people as you like and they don’t need an unlock. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=service-accounts#service-accounts--sharing) ## 2. My manager bought it but expects me to design all the maps, is that O.K? Yes, our cool A.I. can detect that it’s only you that’s been using the tool. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=service-accounts#service-accounts--manager) ## 3. Can I change the registered email from my old company to my new one? If you email us from your old company email address and request the change then yes. We can’t do it if you don’t have access to the old email address. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=service-accounts#service-accounts--email) ## Related guides - [Buy, unlock or renew a map](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=payments) - [Saved maps: access, renewals & new maps](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=saved-access) - [Help, FAQs & the newer mapping tool](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=resources) --- # About GBMaps Official GBMaps guide for the classic map maker. VectorMaps has a different interface. Source: https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=service-about Updated: 2026-09-29 About the tool and the business. These are the service questions from Help & FAQs. For help with an individual setting, use the illustrated menu topics. ## 1. Is this tool the same as Map-Point? No but a lot of people that previously used Map-Point find our tools very useful. So it has some similarities but it’s not the same. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=service-about#service-about--map-point) ## 2. Are we a legitimate business? Yes, we’ve been ‘mapping’ and in business for 25+ years. This mapping tool was born 10 years ago and has evolved a huge amount since then. We carry out feature and security updates and maintenance daily. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=service-about#service-about--business) ## 3. Why does it cost so little? We have designed the tool to be as accessible as possible for people with no mapping experience and believe it’s better to charge a lot of people a small amount of money rather than a few people a lot of money. [Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=service-about#service-about--price) ## Related guides - [Buy, unlock or renew a map](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=payments) - [Saved maps: access, renewals & new maps](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=saved-access) - [Help, FAQs & the newer mapping tool](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=resources)