January 15, 2025
min read
How to List on Google Shopping: Step-by-Step Guide for 2025
Discover how to effectively list on Google Shopping and increase your visibility. Free listings allow you to tap into new audiences at no extra cost.
How to List on Google Shopping
If you're wondering how to get your products on Google Shopping, the process begins with Google Merchant Center. It's more straightforward than you might think, and you can list your products for free.
Google offers free listings that allow you to reach a wider audience without the need for paid advertisements.
Understanding Free Listings
Free listings are a feature from Google that lets online retailers list on Google Shopping and display their products on the Google Shopping tab, standard search results, Google Images, and more, without paying for ads.
When users search for products on Google, they often see a grid of product images, prices, and links. Some of these are paid placements (Shopping ads), while others are free.
Why Free Listings Matter
- Enhanced Visibility: Even without a large advertising budget, free listings help you appear in relevant searches.
- Increased Traffic: Each listing links directly to your website or online store, attracting more potential customers.
- Improved Credibility: Being listed on Google Shopping can boost your brand's trustworthiness.
- Cost Efficiency: You can list your entire product range for free, making it a cost-effective option for businesses of all sizes.
As Google continues to integrate AI into search results, free listings will become increasingly vital for e-commerce businesses seeking organic traffic.
Setting Up Free Listings in Google Merchant Center
For those new to Google Merchant Center or needing a refresher, here’s how to prepare your products for free listings:
- Create a Google Merchant Center AccountVisit the Google Merchant Center website and register for a free account.
- Verify and Claim Your WebsiteIn your Merchant Center account, go to the “Business information” settings. Follow the steps to verify and claim your domain, ensuring you have the authority to list products for that domain.
- Set Up Your Product FeedA product feed is a file or live data source containing product details like titles, descriptions, prices, and images. You can create a feed by:
- Uploading a manual spreadsheet for a small number of products.
- Using e-commerce platform integrations like Shopify or WooCommerce to automate the process.
- Utilizing API uploads for larger catalogs.
- Opt into Free ListingsIn the Merchant Center dashboard, select “Free listings” and then “Manage programs.” Refer to a Google help article for required and optional product attributes.
- Monitor and OptimizeRegularly check the “Products” section for disapproved items or necessary updates. Keeping your product data accurate and current maximizes your chances of appearing on Google Shopping.
Managing Product Listings in Feeds
Effective feed management is crucial for ensuring your free listings are accurate and perform well. Here are some practical tips:
1. Choose a Feed Management Tool
- Built-In Options: Upload CSV or XML files directly to Google Merchant Center.
- External Services: Use platforms like FeedSEO, DataFeedWatch, or GoDataFeed to automate and optimize your product data.
OBS: Explore the 10 best Google shopping optimization software in 2025.
2. Update Regularly
- Daily Updates: Most online stores benefit from daily updates to maintain accurate prices and stock levels.
- Real-Time Updates: Use real-time updates for products with fluctuating prices or fast sales.
3. Monitor and Resolve Issues
- Check Feed Status in GMC: Review the “Diagnostics” section for alerts or errors.
- Fix Disapproved Items: Address any policy violations or data inaccuracies promptly.
- Evaluate Performance: Use Google Merchant Center or Google Analytics to assess metrics like click-through rates, impressions, and conversions to identify improvement areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are common questions about getting listed on Google Shopping.
What’s the difference between free listings and Shopping ads?
Free listings are organic placements within the Shopping tab, while Shopping ads are paid placements that can appear on search results pages, the Shopping tab, and other Google properties. If you stop paying for Shopping ads, they no longer appear, but free listings can continue to show as long as your product feed remains active and compliant.
Do I need a website for free listings?
Yes, you need a verified and claimed website or e-commerce store. Google requires a valid, secure domain that you own to display products via Merchant Center.
Is there a limit to how many products I can list for free?
There’s no strict limit, but you must ensure each product adheres to Google’s policies, and that your feed is properly structured. The more high-quality, accurate data you provide, the better your chances of visibility.
Can I still run Shopping ads while using free listings?
Absolutely. Many businesses use both free listings and paid Shopping ads for a broader reach and strategic advantages. Free listings can complement your paid campaigns by extending your presence on the Shopping tab.
How long does it take for my products to appear in free listings?
It can vary, but typically products start appearing in free listings within a few days after your feed is approved. If you notice delays, check your Merchant Center for any policy or data feed issues.
