What Are Google Merchant Center Errors?
Google Merchant Center errors represent problems which stop product data from showing properly in Google Shopping. The errors appear when product information does not fulfill the requirements set by Google. The most common errors in Google Merchant Center include product identifiers that are absent and incorrect pricing and invalid URLs and poor image quality and inaccurate product availability status. Merchants need to resolve these errors to keep their product listings active.
Critical Account-Level Errors
1. GMC Account Suspension Error
A Google Merchant Center account suspension occurs when your account violates Google’s policies or requirements. The suspension stops your products from showing in Google Shopping results. Google sends suspension notices with specific violation details. Common causes include mismatched pricing, incorrect product information, and policy violations. You must fix these issues to restore your account status.
Check detailed guide on How to Fix Google Merchant Center Misrepresentation Suspension Error
Primary Causes:
- Policy violations (misrepresentation, unacceptable business practices)
- Repeated listing violations without resolution
- Circumventing Google’s systems or policies
- Selling prohibited products
Resolution Steps:
- Review the suspension email for specific violation details
- Fix all identified issues on your website
- Submit an appeal through Google Merchant Center
- Wait 7-14 days for review response
- Implement preventive measures to avoid future suspensions
Prevention Tips:
- Regular policy compliance audits
- Monitor account health dashboard weekly
- Address warnings immediately
2. GMC Misrepresentation of Self or Product Error
The GMC Misrepresentation of Self or Product Error happens when users provide false information about themselves or their products on GMC platforms. The violation includes false product descriptions and fake business details and misleading service information. Google Merchant Center strictly enforces policies against deceptive practices to protect customers and maintain marketplace integrity.
Check detailed guide on How to Fix Misrepresentation of Self or Product Error in Google Merchant Center
Common Triggers:
- Missing or unclear contact information
- Exaggerated product claims or benefits
- Inaccurate product descriptions or specifications
- Hidden fees or charges not disclosed upfront
Quick Fix Checklist:
- Add complete contact information (address, phone, email)
- Include clear terms of service and privacy policy
- Ensure product descriptions match actual features
- Display all fees and charges transparently
- Remove any misleading marketing language
3. GMC Unclaimed Website URL Error
The GMC unclaimed website URL error happens when Google My Business fails to confirm ownership of your website address. The verification process of your Google Business Profile displays this error to users. Users must correct the URL format while verifying their website is active and proving their ownership rights to solve this problem.
The error displays as “website not claimed.” Business owners must demonstrate website control to Google through particular verification procedures. The error occurs when users enter incorrect URL formatting or experience DNS problems or fail to verify website ownership.
Verification Methods:
- HTML file upload (most common)
- HTML tag method (easiest for developers)
- Google Analytics (if already connected)
- Google Tag Manager (for advanced users)
Step-by-Step Process:
- Go to Business Information in Merchant Center
- Click “Claim website URL”
- Choose verification method
- Follow provided instructions
- Verify successful claim within 24 hours
Product Feed Errors
4. GMC Feed Errors
The Google Merchant Center feed errors occur when product data fails to fulfill the requirements for shopping ads on Google. The errors prevent products from appearing in Google Shopping results. The most common GMC feed errors include missing product titles, incorrect pricing, invalid GTINs, and broken image links. The process of error correction requires individual data verification for each item.
Check detailed guide on How to Fix Google Shopping Feed Errors [A Complete Guide 2025]
|
Error Type |
Description |
Solution |
|
Missing Required Attributes |
Title, description, link, image_link, price missing |
Add all mandatory fields to feed |
|
Formatting Issues |
Incorrect date formats, currency symbols |
Follow Google’s formatting guidelines |
|
Character Limits |
Titles over 150 characters, descriptions over 5000 |
Trim content to specified limits |
|
Invalid URLs |
Broken links, non-HTTPS URLs |
Fix all broken links, use HTTPS |
|
Outdated Data |
Products discontinued but still in feed |
Update feed regularly (daily recommended) |
Critical Feed Attributes:
- Title (150 characters max)
- Description (5000 characters max)
- Link (must be HTTPS)
- Image_link (must be HTTPS)
- Price (with currency)
- Availability (in stock, out of stock, preorder)
5. GMC Invalid GTIN, MPN, or Brand Error
GTIN, MPN, and Brand errors in Google Merchant Center occur when product identifiers do not match required formats or contain incorrect information. These errors prevent products from showing in Google Shopping. Common causes include missing GTINs, wrong manufacturer part numbers, or incorrect brand names in product data feeds.
Requirements by Product Type:
- Branded products: GTIN + Brand (MPN optional)
- Custom/handmade products: Brand only
- Books: ISBN required
- Media: UPC required
Common Mistakes:
- Using placeholder GTINs (like 000000000000)
- Incorrect brand names or variations
- Missing identifiers for eligible products
- Using fake or generated GTINs
Best Practices:
- Source GTINs from official databases (GS1, manufacturer)
- Use exact brand names as registered
- Leave GTIN empty for custom products rather than using fake codes
Pricing and Availability Issues
6. GMC Price Mismatch Error
Check detailed guide on How to Fix Price Mismatch Error in Google Merchant Center?
Common Scenarios:
- Feed shows $99, website shows $129
- Sale prices not updated in feed
- Different prices for different user segments
- Mobile vs desktop price variations
Resolution Timeline:
- Immediate: Update feed with correct prices
- Within 24 hours: Verify price consistency across all platforms
- Ongoing: Implement automated price sync
7. GMC Inaccurate Product Availability Error
Check detailed guide on How to Fix Inaccurate Product Availability Error Google Merchant Center?
The GMC Inaccurate Product Availability Error occurs when Google Merchant Center displays wrong stock information for products in your online store. This error happens when product inventory data in your feed does not match the actual availability on your website. Fixing this requires immediate updates to your product feed and website inventory numbers.
Availability Status Options:
- In stock: Product available for immediate purchase
- Out of stock: Product temporarily unavailable
- Preorder: Product available for advance purchase
- Backorder: Product available but delayed shipping
Monitoring Strategy:
- Update availability in real-time or at least daily
- Use inventory management systems with API integration
- Set up automated alerts for stock changes
- Regular availability audits (weekly minimum)
Technical and Compliance Errors
8. GMC Image Issues Error
The GMC Image Issues Error appears when the system fails to show or handle images properly. The GMC Image Issues Error disrupts media loading operations and prevents GMC devices from using cameras and displaying images. The error develops from software problems and insufficient storage capacity and damaged image files and outdated system software. Users can resolve this issue through cache clearing and software updates and storage setting verification.
Image Requirements:
|
Aspect |
Requirement |
Common Violations |
|
Resolution |
Minimum 100×100 pixels |
Low-quality images |
|
Format |
JPEG, PNG, GIF, BMP, TIFF |
Unsupported formats |
|
Content |
Product only, no promotional text |
Watermarks, promotional overlays |
|
Background |
Preferably white or transparent |
Busy backgrounds |
|
Quality |
Clear, well-lit, professional |
Blurry, dark images |
Quick Image Fixes:
- Remove all watermarks and promotional text
- Use white or neutral backgrounds
- Ensure images are well-lit and in focus
- Show the actual product, not packaging
- Use multiple angles for complex products
9. GMC Missing or Incorrect Tax Information Error
The GMC Missing or Incorrect Tax Information Error happens when tax details are incomplete or wrong in the General Motors Credit system. The error blocks users from finishing financial deals or using their account services. Users need to check their tax identification number and address and filing status to resolve this issue.
Required Tax Setup:
- Tax registration in applicable states
- Correct tax rates for each jurisdiction
- Proper tax category assignments
- Regular tax rate updates
Tax Configuration Steps:
- Navigate to Business Information > Tax settings
- Add all states where you have tax nexus
- Configure tax rates by product category
- Set up automatic tax calculations
- Regular monthly tax rate reviews
10. GMC Missing or Incorrect Shipping Information Error
Google Merchant Center identifies shipping details problems in product feeds through the GMC Missing or Incorrect Shipping Information Error. The error shows up when shipping costs or delivery times or shipping zones remain empty or contain invalid information. Merchants need to resolve these issues to keep their product listings accurate while preventing feed disapprovals.
Essential Shipping Elements:
- Shipping costs: Accurate for all regions
- Delivery timeframes: Realistic estimates
- Shipping methods: All available options
- Free shipping thresholds: If applicable
- International shipping: If offered
Shipping Setup Checklist:
- Configure shipping rates for all target countries
- Set accurate delivery timeframes
- Include handling time in calculations
- Specify shipping restrictions
- Update shipping policies regularly
Policy and Content Violations
11. GMC Missing Return & Refund Policy Error
The GMC Missing Return & Refund Policy Error occurs when a Google Merchant Center account lacks required return and refund policy information. This error affects product listings and shopping ads. Merchants must add clear return policies to their websites and link them correctly in GMC to resolve this issue and maintain account compliance.
Required Policy Elements:
- Return timeframe (minimum 30 days recommended)
- Return condition requirements
- Refund processing timeline
- Return shipping responsibility
- Exchange options if available
Policy Placement Requirements:
- Accessible from every product page
- Linked in website footer
- Clear and easy to understand
- Updated with current information
12. GMC Adult Content without Proper Labeling Error
Google Merchant Center demands that all products with mature themes must receive explicit adult content labels. The error happens when sellers upload adult-oriented items without setting the adult_content attribute to “true” in their product feed. The error needs to be resolved through correct labeling and by following Google’s adult content policies for product listings.
Adult Content Categories:
- Sexual wellness products
- Adult entertainment
- Dating services
- Mature-themed content
Compliance Requirements:
- Proper age verification systems
- Clear adult content warnings
- Restricted advertising targeting
- Compliance with local regulations
13. GMC Policy Violations Error
The GMC Policy Violations Error occurs when users violate Google Merchant Center advertising rules through their Google Merchant Center account. The error appears when product listings contain information that does not match Google’s requirements for accurate descriptions and pricing and availability and prohibited content. Users need to resolve these violations to maintain their ability to sell through Google Shopping.
Commonly Restricted Products:
- Alcohol (requires special approval)
- Tobacco and smoking accessories
- Prescription medications
- Weapons and dangerous items
- Counterfeit goods
Violation Prevention:
- Regular policy review (quarterly)
- Product category compliance audits
- Legal consultation for borderline products
- Industry-specific regulation compliance
Geographic and Technical Restrictions
14. GMC Unsupported Language or Currency Error
The GMC Unsupported Language or Currency Error happens when users attempt to view content in unsupported languages or perform transactions with unrecognizable currencies. The GMC (Google Merchant Center) displays this error when product listings include language codes or currency formats that Google’s system fails to recognize.
Supported Configurations:
|
Country |
Supported Languages |
Required Currency |
|
United States |
English |
USD |
|
United Kingdom |
English |
GBP |
|
Germany |
German |
EUR |
|
France |
French |
EUR |
|
Japan |
Japanese |
JPY |
15. GMC Destination Not Eligible Error
The GMC Destination Not Eligible Error occurs when a user attempts to enter a destination into their GMC navigation system that is outside the current map coverage area. This error commonly appears on GMC infotainment systems when trying to navigate to addresses that are not in the system’s database or in restricted zones.
Common Restrictions:
- Medical devices in certain regions
- Food products without proper certifications
- Electronics without local compliance
- Age-restricted products in conservative markets
Getting Help and Support
Google Resources:
- Google Merchant Center Help Center
- Google Ads Community Forums
- Google Partner support (for certified partners)
How Trusted Web Eservices Can Help You Fix Common Google Merchant Center Errors
- Comprehensive Error Diagnosis: We conduct a detailed analysis of your Merchant Center account to detect all types of errors including feed issues, policy violations, and technical problems.
- Feed Optimization & Product Data Correction: We fix product identifiers, pricing discrepancies, image issues, and ensure all required attributes are properly formatted.
- Account Recovery & Appeals: Our experts handle account suspensions, website verification issues, and draft professional appeals to reinstate your account swiftly.
- Policy Compliance Setup: We configure tax settings, shipping information, return policies, and ensure full compliance with Google’s guidelines.
- Ongoing Monitoring & Prevention: We provide continuous monitoring to prevent future errors and maintain optimal account health.
If your Google Merchant Center account has errors preventing your products from showing, Trusted Web Eservices is here to help you resolve them efficiently and ensure long-term success.
Struggling with Google Merchant Center Errors?
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Bhavesh Patel 
Verified Technical SEO & Tracking Specialist
Bhavesh Patel is a technical SEO expert with extensive experience in web tracking and analytics. As a specialist in Google Analytics 4 and Google Tag Manager, he helps businesses implement cutting-edge solutions for tracking, SEO, and conversion optimization.