How to Use MapQuest Route Planner for Multiple Stops (2025 Guide)?

If you’re handling deliveries and service calls or just have a lot of stops to make, you’ve probably noticed that tools like Google Maps, Apple Maps, or Waze can only take you so far.

They’re great for getting you from point A to point B, but they fall short in route planning with multiple stops. That’s where MapQuest Route Planner comes in handy.

MapQuest has been a go-to for drivers for years, and its route planner is particularly useful if you’re looking to efficiently plan a few stops (up to 26 stops). 

How about exploring the tool further and using it to its full potential? That’s great, isn’t it?

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to use MapQuest Route Planner step by step.

What is MapQuest Route Planner?

MapQuest is a free online trip planner service to help plan the most optimal route, primarily for driving directions, walking, and other modes of transportation.

Unlike Google Maps’ 10-stop limit or Apple Maps’ 14-stop restriction, MapQuest lets you add up to 26 stops per route. It, thus, becomes a better choice for complex journeys, long delivery routes with more stops, and multi-stop road trips.

The platform offers real-time traffic updates for MapQuest driving directions, customizable route preferences (avoiding tolls, highways, or ferries), and automated route optimization to save time and fuel costs.

But what if you have more than 26 stops along a route, multiple drives to manage, and complex constraints based on customers’ preferences?

That’s where MapQuest falls short. 

Don’t worry – as this guide explains everything – from detailed steps to use MapQuest route planner, common issues faced and their solutions, and how it compares with other route planner apps.

5-Step Guide to Using MapQuest Route Planner

Step 1: How to Access MapQuest Route Planner

Desktop access

1. Go to www.mapquest.com in your web browser.
2. Click on “Directions” or “Route Planner” in the main navigation menu to get redirected to the route planner page with a map and address input fields. 

Mobile app access

1. Download the MapQuest app from the App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android).
2. Open the app and tap the “Directions” icon.
3. Select “Route Planner” to start adding multiple stops.

Pro Tip: Create a free MapQuest account to synchronize routes between desktop and mobile devices for hassle-free trip planning and navigation.

Step 2: How to Enter Multiple Addresses in MapQuest

MapQuest offers three easy methods for adding destinations:

Line-by-line method

This method works best for routes with fewer than 10 stops.

• Type each address individually into the search field.
• Press “Add Stop” or hit Enter after each address.
• MapQuest’s autocomplete feature will suggest addresses as you type.

Copy and paste method

Ideal for a predefined set of stops compiled as a list. 

• Create a list of addresses in a text document (one address per line).
• Copy and paste the entire list into MapQuest’s address field.
• The system automatically separates each line into individual stops.

Import from file (CSV/Excel)

This method handles large address lists efficiently and reduces manual entry errors

• Click the “Import from File” option.
• Upload a CSV, XLS, or XLSX file containing your addresses.
• Download MapQuest’s template file for proper formatting.

Address formatting tips: 

• Include complete addresses with the correct street number, name, city, state, and ZIP code.
• Use full state names or standard abbreviations (CA, NY, TX).
• Use the map preview to double-check addresses for accuracy. 

Step 3: How to Customize Your MapQuest Route Options

Route optimization settings

Access “More Route Settings” to customize your trip preferences:

Optimization types:

• Shortest time: Prioritizes the fastest or shortest route based on traffic. 
• Shortest distance: Minimizes total mileage to increase fuel cost savings.

Route avoidances:

• Toll roads and bridges
• Highways and interstates
• Ferries and water crossings
• International borders
• Seasonal or restricted roads
• Areas with time-based restrictions

Advanced MapQuest Features

• Round trip planning: Enable this option to automatically return to your starting point. It’s perfect for delivery routes or day trips.
• Automatic reordering: Check “Let MapQuest reorder stops” to optimize your sequence of stops for maximum efficiency. This feature can significantly minimize your total travel time and fuel consumption.
• IRS mileage calculator: Access this option through “Route Settings” to calculate reimbursement values for business travel or tax purposes. It suits drivers working for delivery companies instead of being independent contractors. 

Step 4: How to Review and Optimize Your Route

Viewing your MapQuest route directions

1. Click “View Route Directions” to create your optimized route.
2. Review the comprehensive turn-by-turn driving directions.
3. Check the route summary that shows:
   • Total distance and estimated travel time
   • Fuel cost estimates (if enabled)
   • Individual leg distances between stops

Manual route adjustments

• Drag and drop stops directly on the map to reorder them manually.
• Click on route lines to add waypoints or avoid specific areas.
• Verify each stop location using the map pins to ensure accuracy.
• Adjust timing based on your specific needs (traffic patterns, business hours).

Step 5: How to Share and Navigate Your MapQuest Route

Sharing your route 

MapQuest provides multiple route sharing options:

• Email: Send complete directions to team members or customers.
• Text/SMS: Share route links for mobile access.
• URL Generation: Create shareable links for easy distribution.
• Print option: Generate physical copies for areas with limited internet connectivity.

Using MapQuest mobile app for navigation

1. Download the MapQuest mobile app if you haven’t already.
2. Log into your account to access saved routes.
3. Select your planned route from the saved routes list.
4. Start turn-by-turn navigation with voice guidance.
5. Receive real-time traffic updates and automatic rerouting when needed.

Navigation features:

• Voice-guided step-by-step directions
• Real-time traffic alerts and alternate routes
• Speed limit displays and speedometer integration
• Points of interest (gas stations, restaurants, hotels) along your route

MapQuest Route Planner Features and Capabilities

Core features

• 26 stops per route (more than any major competitor like Google Maps or Apple Maps)
• Real-time traffic integration with automated rerouting.
• Comprehensive avoidance options for tolls, highways, and other road types
• Mobile and desktop synchronization across devices
• Turn-by-turn voice-enabled navigation directions
• Fuel cost estimation and mileage tracking

Advanced MapQuest tools

• Weather integration: See weather along your route to plan for road conditions and travel safety.
• Points of Interest Discovery: Find restaurants, gas stations, hotels, and attractions along your planned route, often with price comparisons and user reviews.
• Route History: Access previously planned routes for recurring trips or reference purposes.

MapQuest Route Planner Limitations

Key Drawbacks to Consider

• Single-driver design: Doesn’t support multiple drivers or vehicles
• 26-stop limit: Even if stops are more, it still doesn’t suffice for large-scale operations. 
• No delivery time windows: You can’t specify customers’ preferred time slots and average duration per stop (or service duration).
• No delivery time windows: Cannot specify arrival times or service durations
• Limited real-time tracking: Basic location sharing compared to advanced routing solutions that offer GPS-based tracking to show drivers’ live movements.
• Advertisement presence: Free version includes ads that can impact user experience.
• Interface: Design feels dated compared to modern mapping applications.

When to Consider MapQuest Alternatives

MapQuest works well for personal travel and small business operations within its limitations. 

However, when you need advanced fleet management capabilities, have over 100 stops per route, or need advanced logistics features, it won’t suffice. 

It is where you must look for route planning software, like Upper, as it offers:

• 500+ stop capacity
• AI-powered efficient route algorithms 
• Multi-driver coordination
• Delivery time windows
• Real-time tracking and customer notifications
• Proof of delivery capabilities

MapQuest vs Competitors Comparison

Feature	MapQuest	Google Maps	Apple Maps	Upper Route Planner
Max Stops	26	10	14	500+
Cost	Free (ads)	Free	Free	Paid (free trial)
Route Optimization	Yes	Yes	Yes	Advanced
Mobile App	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Multi-Driver Support	No	No	No	Yes
Delivery Time Windows	No	No	No	Yes
Real-time Tracking	Limited	Limited	Limited	Full
Customer Notifications	No	No	No	Yes

Expert Tips to Using MapQuest Route Planner Effectively

Time-saving strategies

1. Always enable automatic reordering to let MapQuest optimize your stop sequence
2. Use file imports for routes with more than 5 stops to avoid manual entry errors.
3. Save frequently visited locations in your account for quick access.
4. Plan routes during off-peak hours when possible to get more accurate time estimates.

Ensuring address accuracy

• Include complete ZIP codes to ensure geocoding accuracy.
• Use landmark references when exact addresses are unclear.
• Verify locations visually on the map before you finalize routes.
• Test problematic addresses individually before adding them to larger routes.

Business use best practices

• Factor in service times when estimating your total route duration.
• Consider customer availability windows when planning stop sequences.
• Keep some buffer time for unexpected delays or traffic conditions.
• Keep printed directions as backup for areas with poor cellular coverage.

Common Challenges on MapQuest Route Planner and Ways to Resolve Them

Issue 1: Limited number of stops in the free route planner 

Solution: To plan routes with destinations exceeding 26, either break your trip into multiple smaller routes. You can also consider upgrading to an alternative route optimization software built for more complex logistics.

Issue 2: Interface may feel dated

Solution: While MapQuest keeps releasing updates, some users still find its interface less modern compared to newer navigation apps. Familiarize yourself with the layout and available options. Focus on the core functionalities you need.

Issue 3: MapQuest doesn’t always find the “absolute best” route

Solution: Manually review and adjust the order of stops based on your local knowledge to improve the route.

Issue 4: Limited offline functionality

Solution: Before going to areas with poor or no internet connectivity, consider planning your route in advance and taking screenshots of directions. You can also print directions on paper or use a navigation app with robust offline map capabilities.

Issue 5: Issues with importing addresses 

Solution: When importing addresses from a CSV, XLS, or XLSX file, ensure your file is formatted correctly. Use templates that MapQuest provides for this purpose. Arrange columns in a specific order (e.g., street, city, state, zip code). Double-check the formatting if you face errors.

Issue 6: Sharing routes can be problematic

Solution: While MapQuest offers sharing options (e.g., via URL, SMS, email), some users have reported inconsistencies. If direct sharing doesn’t work, copy the route URL and paste it into a message or email manually as a workaround.

Who Uses Mapquest Route Planner?

MapQuest Route Planner is a versatile route planner tool that individuals and groups can use. It’s easy to use and can handle routes with multiple stops up to 26. 

• Personal travelers: Ideal for occasional commutes, planning road trips, or navigating unfamiliar cities. Its straightforward directions and live updates make it suitable for general personal use.
• Individuals with multi-stop routing needs: People who run errands, visit multiple friends or family members, or plan a day of appointments can benefit from its ability to organize several destinations.
• Small businesses and startups: Businesses with limited budgets and relatively simple delivery or service routes (e.g., small food delivery businesses, florists, local service technicians, small e-commerce businesses). They may find MapQuest a useful free tool for planning routes with a moderate number of stops.
• Sales teams: Sales representatives visiting multiple clients in a day can use MapQuest to optimize their travel between appointments. However, it might not be suitable for highly complex or frequently changing daily routes.
• Charities and nonprofits: Organizations with small budgets can use MapQuest to plan delivery routes for donations, supplies, or volunteer activities.