Apple Maps Route Planner: How Useful is it for Deliveries?

Apple Maps, the native navigation app for iPhone users, was introduced in 2012 to replace Google Maps as Apple’s default mapping service. Initially criticized for its inaccuracy and missing features, Apple has since invested heavily in improving the app through redesigns, better data integration, and additional functionality.

This article evaluates whether Apple Maps is now a suitable tool for delivery drivers and logistics teams. We’ll explore what it offers, how it compares to other navigation platforms, and whether it stands up to the specialized needs of modern delivery operations.

Table of Contents

• Overview of Apple Maps
• What Are the Features That Delivery Drivers Need?
• Is Apple Maps Useful for Delivery Businesses?
• How Do I Plan a Route on Apple Maps?
• Does Apple Maps Include a Route Planner?
• Final Thoughts

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Overview of Apple Maps

Apple is among the world’s most influential companies, known for creating seamless, integrated ecosystems that prioritize design and user experience. This philosophy extends to Apple Maps, which offers a clean interface and convenient features like Siri integration and sync across Apple devices.

While the app has grown in functionality over the years, it still lags behind competitors like Google Maps in several areas. That said, Apple Maps does offer several notable features:

• Transit directions and public transportation data
• Cross-device syncing (Mac, iPad, iPhone)
• Local points of interest and saved locations
• Integration with Siri for voice navigation
• Smooth UI with multiple map views, including 3D cityscapes
• Clean, turn-by-turn directions with address info and lane guidance

Despite these features, the app is primarily focused on consumer travel rather than commercial use—particularly when it comes to deliveries.

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What Are the Features That Delivery Drivers Need?

Delivery professionals have very different requirements compared to casual map users. Here are the most critical features for delivery navigation tools:

• Multiple Stop Routing: Delivery drivers often make 10+ stops per day. A system that allows multiple destination routing is essential.
• Real-Time Traffic Data: Up-to-date traffic info helps drivers avoid slowdowns and stay on schedule.
• Bulk Data Import: Manually entering addresses takes time. A good app should allow quick address import—ideally by syncing with orders automatically.
• Delivery Notes: Drivers need access to custom notes like “leave at back door” or “gate code required.”
• Editable Routes: Plans often change mid-route. Drivers need to adjust routes in real time if priorities shift or new stops are added.

Apps like EasyRoutes are designed specifically around these capabilities, making them ideal for logistics-focused businesses.

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Is Apple Maps Useful for Delivery Businesses?

In short: not particularly. While Apple Maps works well for general travel, it lacks the robust logistics features required for serious delivery operations.

Currently, Apple Maps:

• Does not support multiple stop optimization
• Has limited route customization
• Offers minimal delivery-specific functionality
• Does not integrate directly with Shopify or other commerce platforms

While it’s possible to manually enter a few stops, this becomes inefficient at scale. For businesses delivering dozens of orders daily, using Apple Maps alone would quickly become cumbersome.

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How Do I Plan a Route on Apple Maps?

Planning a basic route with Apple Maps is simple. Just search for your destination, and the app will generate turn-by-turn driving directions from your current location.

However, it only handles one destination at a time. To visit multiple addresses, you’d need to enter each one manually and switch between them—something that’s time-consuming and error-prone for busy drivers.

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Does Apple Maps Include a Route Planner?

No—at least not in the way that delivery professionals need. Apple Maps does not support route planning with multiple stops, nor does it provide dynamic route optimization.

Instead, Apple Maps is focused on point-to-point navigation. If you want to map out a multi-stop delivery route, you’ll need a more advanced tool like EasyRoutes, which was built specifically for delivery logistics.

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Final Thoughts

Apple Maps has made impressive strides since its rocky debut. For everyday navigation, it’s more reliable than ever, and its integration within the Apple ecosystem makes it a natural choice for many users.

But when it comes to deliveries—especially those involving multiple stops, time-sensitive windows, and customer updates—Apple Maps simply doesn’t meet the mark. Tools like EasyRoutes offer far greater efficiency and flexibility for businesses looking to streamline their delivery operations.

So while Apple Maps is useful in many ways, serious delivery businesses should look elsewhere for a dedicated route planning solution. Perhaps even in the Shopify App Store?