Frequently asked questions
Common questions about the Local SERP Checker and geo-targeted search.
Do I need a VPN?
Not for checking results with this tool. The encoded location (UULE) in the URL simulates the searcher’s position, so Google serves results as if you were at that place. No VPN or proxy is required.
Why do results still vary a bit?
Personalization, data centers, and micro-location differences can cause small variations. Running the same search a few times or testing a few nearby points (e.g. different zip codes) can give you a more consistent picture.
Can I compare languages?
Yes. Switch the language/region in the country selector (e.g. United States – English vs. Spain – Spanish) and run the search again. The tool sets the correct “hl” (language) and “gl” (country) parameters for each SERP.
What is UULE?
UULE (Universal Location Encoding) is a parameter Google uses to localize search results. It’s a base64-encoded value that represents a location. When added to a search URL, Google shows results as if the searcher were at that location.
Is the tool free? Do I need to sign up?
Yes, the tool is free. You don’t need to create an account or enter any API keys. Your recent searches are stored only in your browser (localStorage) and are not sent to our servers.
Why don’t I see the Map Pack for my query?
Commercial and “near me” style queries often trigger the Map Pack; purely informational queries may not. Try variants like “service + city” or “best [service] near me” to see when the local pack appears.
The location or language looks wrong. What should I do?
Re-select the country and language in the dropdown so the tool sets the correct “gl” and “hl” parameters. For the location, re-enter the address (include city and country), click outside the field to normalize it, then hit “geocode” again.
Can I share or bookmark a localized search?
Yes. Use “Copy search URL” in the advanced settings to copy the full Google URL (including keyword, country, and UULE). You can paste it into a new tab, share it, or save it for later.