Checklist: set up a rank tracker so the data isn't lying to you

Checklist: set up a rank tracker so the data isn't lying to you
I tested fresh projects in AccuRanker and Semrush Position Tracking on a real client. Most 'rank dropped!' panics come from a bad setup, not Google.

The setup checklist:
— Lock location to city, not country, if you target local. Country-level hides real volatility.
— Set device to the split that matches your traffic (check GSC first), don't track desktop-only out of habit.
— Tag keywords by intent/funnel stage at import. Untagged trackers are useless at month 3.
— Set refresh to daily only for your money terms; weekly for the long tail to save credits.
— Add the exact-match domain AND www/non-www canonical so you don't track the wrong URL.

AccuRanker:
➕ On-demand re-check button confirms a real drop in seconds
➖ Pricey per keyword
Semrush:
➕ Tagging + filtering is more flexible
➖ Daily refresh isn't truly daily on cheaper tiers

Best for: drop verification → AccuRanker. Bundled workflow → Semrush.
Price-vs-value: AccuRanker's refresh rate earns its premium only if drops cost you money.
Pick this if you report rankings to a client. Skip if GSC is enough for you.