Instagram’s location feature is more powerful than you think. It’s not just about tagging places—it’s about helping customers find your business, share their experiences, and give you free exposure. But what if your location isn’t on Instagram?

That means missed check-ins, lost brand visibility, and customers tagging the wrong place (or worse, not tagging at all). And let’s be real—you want people showing off your business, not struggling to find it.

In this guide, we’ll show you exactly how to add a custom location on Instagram so your business gets the attention it deserves. It’s quick, simple, and totally worth it. Let’s get started!

What is a Custom Location on Instagram?

A custom location on Instagram is a unique location tag that you create and add to your posts, allowing you to specify a place that isn't already listed on Instagram's location database.

For your business, a custom location is a valuable tool to:

• Increase visibility by making it easier for customers to find and tag you.
• Encourage user-generated content, as customers can check in and share their experiences.
• Strengthen branding by maintaining a consistent location tag across posts.

Custom locations aren’t just for businesses—you can also use them creatively. For example, a travel blogger might create a location called Wanderlust Diaries, or a restaurant could use Foodie Paradise for a themed campaign.

By using a custom location strategically, you boost engagement, improve discoverability, and build a stronger presence on Instagram.

How to Add Custom Location on Instagram

Since Instagram pulls its location data from Facebook, you’ll need to create your custom location on Facebook first. Once added, it will be available for use on Instagram. Follow these steps:

Step 1: Enable Location Services

Before you begin, make sure your phone’s location services are turned on for both Facebook and Instagram. This ensures accuracy when creating your location.

Step 2: Open Facebook and Create a Check-In

1. Open the Facebook app on your phone.
2. Tap “What’s on your mind?” to create a new post.
3. Select “Check In” (you may need to grant location permissions).

Step 3: Search for Your Location

1. Type your business name in the search bar.
2. If it doesn’t appear, scroll down and tap “Add [Your Location Name]” to create a new one.

Step 4: Enter Location Details

1. Choose a category that best describes your business (e.g., café, store, office).
2. Add an address (optional but recommended for physical locations).
3. Tap “Save” or “Create” to finalize.

Step 5: Use Your Custom Location on Instagram

1. Open Instagram and create a new post or story.
2. Tap “Add Location” and search for your custom location.
3. Select it and share your post—your location is now live!

That’s it! Your custom location is now available for tagging, helping customers find and engage with your business more easily.

Strategies to Maximize Your Custom Location's Impact

Creating a custom location is just the first step—making the most of it is where the real value lies. Here’s how you can leverage it to boost visibility and engagement:

1. Encourage Customers to Tag Your Location

Ask customers to tag your business in posts and stories. Offer small incentives like discounts or shoutouts. More tags mean more visibility, helping new customers discover your business organically through their friends’ posts.

2. Use It in Every Post and Story

Consistency matters. Tag your custom location in all posts and stories to reinforce brand awareness. The more frequently your location appears, the more familiar it becomes to potential customers scrolling through Instagram.

3. Create a Branded Location Name

Make your location memorable! Instead of just your business name, use something catchy like Best Coffee in Town or Glow Up Studio. A creative location name encourages engagement and adds personality to your brand.

4. Pair It with a Hashtag

Combine your custom location with a branded hashtag for better discoverability. This way, customers can engage with both your location and related content, helping you build a stronger community around your brand.

5. Feature User-Generated Content

Repost customer stories and photos that tag your location. This builds trust, encourages more people to check in, and creates a sense of community around your brand, making customers feel valued and connected.

6. Optimize for Local Searches

Ensure your Facebook location details are accurate and well-categorized, as Instagram pulls data from Facebook. Use relevant keywords so your business appears in local searches, making it easier for nearby customers to find you.

Leverage Instagram’s Custom Location To Boost Engagement

Instagram’s location feature is more than just a tagging tool—it’s a powerful way to boost visibility, attract customers, and build brand engagement. Now that you know how to create and maximize a custom location, it’s time to put it into action! Start tagging your business, encourage customers to check in, and watch your online presence grow. The more you use it, the more exposure your brand gets!

And if you need any help creating or managing content for your Instagram, log in or sign up for quso.ai and let us help you take your Instagram marketing to the next level.