Understand the key differences between Google's business identifiers. Learn when to use CID, Place ID, or Knowledge Graph ID for citations, API calls, and entity SEO with GMB Everywhere.
Here's a side-by-side comparison of Google's three main business identifiers
| Feature | CID (Customer ID) | Place ID | Knowledge Graph ID |
|---|---|---|---|
| Primary Use | Map embeds & citations | API calls & integrations | Knowledge panels & entity SEO |
| Format | Long numeric string | Alphanumeric string | kgmid:/g/ or /m/ format |
| Where It Appears | Google Maps URLs & embeds | API responses & developer tools | Knowledge panel URLs |
| Best For | Citation tracking & map widgets | Technical integrations & automation | Entity verification & schema markup |
| Changes | Rarely changes | Stable & permanent | Permanent entity identifier |
The CID is primarily used in Google Maps embed codes and appears in map URLs. It's a long numeric identifier that helps track where your business listing is embedded across the web.
Common Use Cases:
The Place ID is Google's most stable identifier for locations. It's required for Google Maps API calls and is the go-to identifier for technical integrations and developer work.
Common Use Cases:
The Knowledge Graph ID connects your business to Google's knowledge database. It's essential for knowledge panel management and entity-based SEO strategies.
Common Use Cases:
Learn the differences between Google's three main business identifiers and when to use each one for API integrations and tracking
After installing, visit maps.google.com and search for any term (like "dentist near me").
Our extension buttons will appear on the page.
Click on any business listing, then click the "Basic Audit" button on the left side pane to open the audit dashboard.
The audit dashboard displays CID, Place ID, and Knowledge Graph ID all together. Simply copy whichever identifier you need for your specific use case.
Complete suite of professional tools for Google Business Profile management
How to use:
Open any business on Google Maps - primary and secondary categories display automatically beside the profile
Features:
How to use:
Search for any term on Google Maps - click the Local Scan button to compare all GBPs
Features:
How to use:
Open any business on Google Maps - click the 'AI' button beside the GBP to use AI features
Features:
How to use:
Open any business on Google Maps - click the 'Find more' button beside categories
Features:
How to use:
Open any business on Google Maps - click the 'Basic Audit' button beside the GBP
Features:
How to use:
Open any business on Google Maps - click the 'Review Audit' button beside the GBP
Features:
How to use:
Open any business on Google Maps - click the 'Teleport' button beside the GBP
Features:
How to use:
Open any business on Google Maps - click the 'Post Audit' button beside the GBP
Features:
Join thousands of agencies and businesses using GMB Everywhere daily
Simply download the extension, then visit Google Maps, Local Finder, or Google Search 3-pack. You'll find our audit button beside any business listing.
Yes, we offer a free plan with 5 views per month. You can upgrade to our paid plans for unlimited access to all features.
Use CID for citations and map embeds, Place ID for API integrations and technical work, and Knowledge Graph ID for knowledge panels and entity SEO. GMB Everywhere shows you all three so you can choose what fits your needs.
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