Importing map features to a map

Avenza Maps allows the import of custom map features for use on maps both online and offline. Map Features include placemarks, tracks, lines, and areas.  

Users can import map features directly onto a map, or import to the Layers tab where it can be linked to a map at a later time.  There is also the ability to link map feature layers to more than one map without having to export and import the layer each time.

Supported import formats

Currently, the following formats are supported for import:

• KML/KMZ - feature and attribute schemas
• GPX* - feature data only
• Shapefile** - feature data only

*GPX requires a Plus subscription or higher

**Shapefiles require a Pro Subscription, as well as the appropriate files combined together in a ZIP folder in order to successfully import (.shp, .shx, .prj, and .dbf)

Import sources and options

You can import from several sources including:

• Import Schema Only (KML/KMZ) - Allows you to import an attribute schema with no extra map features
• Recently Used (KML/KMZ, GPX*, Shapefile**) - Allows you to choose from a list of previously used layers (ideal when importing Map Features from Email, or if using the same feature layer on multiple maps).  This option can be used for offline importing
• From Dropbox (KML/KMZ, GPX*, Shapefile**) - Allows you to connect to Dropbox to import features.  Please note this option does require an internet connection and access to a Dropbox account
• From Storage Locations (KML/KMZ, GPX*, Shapefile**) - Allows you to navigate your device storage or connect to any cloud storage app you have downloaded on your device to import features.
• From the Web (KML/KMZ, GPX*, Shapefile**)
• Import as Geofences (v3.7) - Allows you to automatically create geofences on the features imported.  For more information see the article available here

*GPX requires a Plus subscription or higher

**Shapefiles require a Pro Subscription, as well as the appropriate files combined together in a ZIP folder in order to successfully import (.shp, .shx, .prj, and .dbf)

Importing map features to the map

To import map features directly to a map:

1. Open the desired map you wish to import features to
2. Tap the Map Features icon (next to the three dots)
3. Tap the Menu icon (lower right corner)
4. Select 'Import Map Features'
5. If importing a schema only, choose 'Import Schema Only' (if applicable)
6. Choose the desired source location
7. Select the desired file to import

Related Topics

• Viewing Map Features
• Attribute Schema
• Subscriptions