How we verify a listing
Every lookup asks one question: is the presence represented by this Google Maps listing real and supported by independently verifiable information? We follow the same chain of evidence each time, and we publish what each step found — including when the answer is "we couldn't verify it."
- 1
Google listing name
We record the exact name shown on the Google Maps listing, with a dated capture.
- 2
Google address
The address the listing claims. This is the heart of every lookup.
- 3
Business at that address
Who is actually registered or observable at that address — via Street View, state registries, and the address's other occupants.
- 4
Phone
Whether the listed number connects to the office claimed on the listing.
- 5
Website
Whether the linked website shows the same address, or a different one.
- 6
Legal business identity
State business registrations matching the name on the listing.
- 7
FMCSA identity
The company's federal registration: legal name, DBA, and physical address on file.
- 8
MC / USDOT
Whether the docket and USDOT numbers shown anywhere match a real, active record.
- 9
Public business records
Any other reliable public source that confirms or conflicts with the listing.
- 10
Discrepancies
Where sources disagree, we document the conflict — a conflict is a finding about information, not an accusation about a business.
- 11
Business response
The business is invited to respond and provide documentation. Verified corrections are published.
What we never do
- We never call a company a scam, fraud, or fake based on a listing discrepancy.
- We never treat an unverified address as proof of wrongdoing — a legitimate, federally licensed company can have an inaccurate Google Maps location.
- We never publish a report that hasn't been checked against public records.
Seen a listing we should check?
It takes two minutes, and every report is reviewed against public records.
Report a fake Google Maps listing