What format to import into Google Maps?

Importing Data into Google Maps: Optimal File Formats

For seamless integration with Google Maps, the choice of file format for importing data is crucial. The following formats are highly recommended:

ESRI Shapefiles

Shapefiles are a widely accepted vector data format developed by ESRI. They are composed of multiple files (.shp, .shx, .dbf, and potentially other auxiliary files) that collectively store geometry, attributes, and metadata. Shapefiles are particularly suitable for importing complex geospatial data with intricate geometries.

KML/KMZ Files

Keyhole Markup Language (KML) and its compressed counterpart KMZ (zipped KML) are XML-based formats used to represent geographic data. They provide extensive support for various geometry types, including points, lines, and polygons. Additionally, KML/KMZ files can embed metadata, imagery, and other rich content.

CSV Files

Comma-Separated Value (CSV) files are simple text files where data is organized into rows and columns, with commas separating the values. While CSV files are not natively supported by Google Maps, they can be imported if they adhere to specific guidelines. The data must be comma-delimited, and each column should be quoted to prevent ambiguity.

DBF Files

DBF (dBase) files are database files commonly used in conjunction with shapefiles. They store tabular data, such as attribute information associated with geographic features. Importing DBF files into Google Maps allows easy access to tabular data alongside spatial data.

Additional Considerations

For optimal integration, it’s important to note the following:

• Data should be in a projected coordinate system compatible with Google Maps (e.g., Web Mercator).
• File sizes exceeding 100MB may experience upload issues.
• Data should be up-to-date and accurate to ensure reliable results.

By adhering to these guidelines and choosing the most appropriate file format, you can seamlessly integrate geospatial data into Google Maps for enhanced visualization, analysis, and decision-making.