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Google Merchant Center (GMC) is an essential tool for e-commerce businesses, allowing you to display products across Google Shopping, Search, and other platforms. However, feed errors can disrupt product visibility, leading to disapprovals and reduced sales.

The good news? These errors are completely fixable! With a structured approach, you can identify, resolve, and prevent feed issues to ensure your products get the exposure they deserve.

In this guide, we’ll break down the most common Google Merchant Center feed errors in 2025 and provide step-by-step solutions to fix them efficiently.

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Why Google Merchant Center Errors Matter

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Errors in your GMC product feed can lead to:

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🔴 Product disapprovals, preventing listings from appearing in Google Shopping.
🔴 Lower ad performance, reducing CTR and increasing CPC.
🔴 Account suspensions, if multiple violations occur.

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By keeping your feed error-free, you maximize visibility, improve ad efficiency, and enhance the shopping experience for customers.

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Common Google Merchant Center Feed Errors & How to Fix Them

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1. Missing or Incorrect Product Identifiers (GTIN, MPN, Brand)

‍Error Message: Missing or incorrect GTIN/MPN/brand

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✅ Fix:

• Ensure GTINs match official barcodes and are formatted correctly.
• If GTIN isn’t available, provide an MPN (Manufacturer Part Number) and brand details.
• Set identifier_exists to false for custom-made or unbranded products.

2. Pricing & Availability Mismatch

‍Error Message: Price or stock level on product feed differs from website

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✅ Fix:

• Use structured data markup (JSON-LD) to sync real-time pricing and stock levels.
• Automate feed updates every 4–6 hours to reflect website changes accurately.
• Regularly audit feed data for discrepancies.

3. Invalid or Missing Shipping & Tax Information

‍Error Message: Missing or incorrect shipping settings

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✅ Fix:

• Set up shipping costs in GMC → Settings → Shipping & Returns to match your website.
• If using flat-rate or weight-based shipping, ensure Google receives the correct data.

4. Image Issues (Broken Links, Low Resolution, Watermarks)

‍Error Message: Image not accessible, low quality, or contains promotional overlays

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✅ Fix:

• Ensure images are at least 100x100 px for non-apparel products and 250x250 px for apparel.
• Use direct image URLs to avoid broken links.
• Remove watermarks, logos, and promotional text from images.

5. Incomplete or Misleading Product Titles & Descriptions

‍Error Message: Missing key product details or misleading information

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✅ Fix:

• Follow an optimized title format:
  [Brand] + [Product Type] + [Key Features: Size, Color, Material]
• Keep titles under 150 characters with important keywords placed first.
• Ensure descriptions provide clear product details without exaggerated claims.

6. Policy Violations (Prohibited or Restricted Products)

‍Error Message: Product disapproved due to policy violation

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✅ Fix:

• Check Google’s Shopping Ads policies here.
• Remove prohibited products (e.g., counterfeit goods, certain supplements, or medical devices).
• If you believe an error was made, submit an appeal for reconsideration.

7. Duplicate Product Listings or Conflicting Data

‍Error Message: Duplicate product IDs detected

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✅ Fix:

• Ensure each product has a unique ID and that variations (size, color) have separate identifiers.
• Merge duplicate listings and ensure all versions have consistent pricing, titles, and attributes.

8. Incorrect Google Product Categories

‍Error Message: Product assigned to the wrong category

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✅ Fix:

• Use Google’s taxonomy and select the most specific category for your product.
• Automate category mapping with a feed management tool like Channable or DataFeedWatch.

Proactive Strategies to Keep Your Feed Error-Free

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✔ Automate Feed Updates – Use Google’s automatic updates to prevent outdated pricing and availability mismatches.
✔ Use Feed Rules in Google Merchant Center – Format and fix data issues directly within GMC.
✔ Monitor the Diagnostics Tab – Regularly check for warnings and errors to resolve issues promptly.
✔ Leverage Feed Management Tools – Use third-party feed optimization tools to streamline the process.

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Need Help Optimizing Your Google Merchant Center Feed?

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Fixing Google Merchant Center feed errors is about proactive monitoring and structured data management. By ensuring accuracy, compliance, and regular updates, you can maximize visibility and performance in Google Shopping.

At CRWizard, we specialize in Google Shopping feed optimization and product data management. If you’re struggling with feed errors, disapproved listings, or account suspensions, we’re here to help!

📅 Book a Demo today to see how we can optimize your product feed and boost your e-commerce performance! 🚀

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