Google Maps API Setup
Scrollengine uses Google Maps for route visualization, address geocoding, and driver navigation. To enable full map functionality, you need to add your Google Maps API key.
Why you need a Google Maps API key
- Route mapping — Visualize routes on an interactive map
- Address geocoding — Convert customer addresses to coordinates
- Distance calculation — Calculate driving distances for delivery fees and route optimization
- Driver navigation — Provide turn-by-turn directions in the mobile app
Getting a Google Maps API key
- Go to the Google Cloud Console
- Create a new project or select an existing one
- Navigate to APIs & Services > Library
- Enable the following APIs:
- Maps JavaScript API
- Geocoding API
- Directions API
- Distance Matrix API
- Go to APIs & Services > Credentials
- Click Create Credentials > API Key
- Copy the generated API key
Securing your API key
Restrict the key to prevent unauthorized use:
- Application restrictions — Set HTTP referrer restrictions to your Shopify domain
- API restrictions — Limit the key to only the four APIs listed above
- Billing alerts — Set up billing alerts in Google Cloud to monitor usage
Adding the key to Scrollengine
- Go to Settings > Integrations in the Scrollengine dashboard
- Find the Google Maps API section
- Paste your API key
- Click Verify & Save
Scrollengine will test the key to ensure it's valid and has the required APIs enabled.
Costs
Google Maps APIs have a free tier (typically $200/month in credit). For most small-to-medium merchants, this covers normal usage. Monitor your Google Cloud billing dashboard if you process high volumes.
Troubleshooting
| Issue | Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Map doesn't load | Invalid or expired API key | Verify the key in Google Cloud Console |
| "API not enabled" error | Required API not activated | Enable all four APIs listed above |
| Geocoding fails | Geocoding API not enabled or over quota | Check API status and billing in Google Cloud |
| Routes show straight lines | Directions API not enabled | Enable the Directions API |