Frequently Asked Questions

What is multi-stop route planning?

Multi-stop route planning is the process of finding the most efficient order to visit multiple locations. Standard navigation apps like Google Maps can give you directions between stops, but they don't optimize the sequence — you have to drag stops into order manually. Multi-stop route planning apps solve this by automatically calculating the fastest overall route, accounting for factors like distance, traffic patterns, and time windows. This is especially valuable for delivery drivers, sales reps, and service technicians who visit many locations per day.

What is the best multi-stop route planner app?

It depends on what you're planning. For delivery businesses managing multiple drivers, Routific offers the best route optimization with built-in dispatch, tracking, and customer notifications. For solo delivery drivers, Spoke Route Planner (formerly Circuit) is a popular mobile app. For occasional personal use, RouteXL is free. For field sales, SalesRabbit and Badger Maps combine route planning with CRM features. For outdoor activities, AllTrails is the go-to for hiking and trail running routes.

Is there a free multi-stop route planner?

Yes, but free tools have stop limits. RouteXL optimizes up to 20 stops for free on the web. For mobile, Spoke Route Planner (formerly Circuit) offers 10 free stops per day, and SoloRoute Mobile handles 20. None of these free tools include delivery management features like tracking or customer notifications — for that, you'll need paid software. See our full guide to free route planners.

What’s the difference between Google Maps and a route optimizer?

Google Maps is a navigation app. It:

  • Shows the fastest route between two points
  • Gives turn-by-turn driving directions
  • Has excellent real-time traffic data
  • Supports up to 10 stops, but doesn’t optimize their order

A route optimizer is planning software. It:

  • Finds the most efficient sequence for visiting multiple stops
  • Handles 20-100+ stops (depending on the tool)
  • Focuses on stop order, not driving directions
  • Usually exports to Google Maps or similar apps for actual navigation

Think of it this way: A route optimizer tells you which order to visit your stops. Then you use Google Maps to actually drive the route with turn-by-turn directions.

Do I need to pay for route optimization?

Basic route optimization is free. Tools like SoloRoute Web, RouteXL, and MapQuest handle up to 20-26 stops with automated optimization.

You will need paid software when:

  • You have more than 25 stops per route.
  • You need time windows (“arrive between 2-4pm”).
  • You’re planning routes for multiple drivers.
  • You need features like live tracking, proof of delivery, or customer notifications.
  • You’re planning routes daily (time savings justify the cost).

For small businesses doing occasional deliveries, free tools are usually good enough. For more sophisticated delivery operations, paid route optimization software typically pays for itself quickly through time and fuel savings.