Anyone running an online e-commerce store is likely familiar with Google Merchant Center and its significance for their business. From listing products on Google Shopping to managing shopping ads, Google Merchant Center has been a reliable tool.
I don’t need to emphasize the importance of Google Merchant Center—you’re all well aware. However, with Google continually evolving its platforms, it’s now Google Merchant Center’s turn for an update. The familiar platform we know and love will soon be transformed into “Google Merchant Center Next.”
While updates bring exciting new features, they also require adapting to a new interface and learning how to perform basic tasks again.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed about uploading products and setting up feeds in the new Google Merchant Center Next, don’t worry—I’ve got you covered.
Let’s walk through a step-by-step guide on uploading products and setting up your feed in Google Merchant Center Next.
But before we dive in, for those new to Merchant Center and just getting acquainted with it, you might be wondering…
What is Product Feed?
A product feed is a structured file that contains information about your products. In simple language, Imagine a product feed as a digital shopping list. Just like a shopping list tells you what items you need to buy, a product feed tells an online marketplace or advertising platform about the products you’re selling.
By including details such as the product title, brand, price, image, and more, you enable Google to display your products to potential customers who are likely to be interested.”
How to Upload Products on Merchant Center Next?
Step 1 : Open Your Google Merchant Center next account
Step 2 : Click on the setting option
Step 3 : Click on “Data Sources”
Step 4 : Click on “Add Product Source”
Step 5 : the four primary methods to upload products to Google Merchant Center Next are in front of your now
- Add products from a file
- Use a Google Sheets template
- Add products one by one
- Add products using API
Let’s cover each method one by one
Method 1 : Add products from a file
Enter a link to your Fil:
- Create a file that contains all your product details. You can check this link to see how to create the file https://support.google.com/merchants/answer/12631822?hl=en
- Ensure your product data file is hosted on a publicly accessible server, generate a link and submit the link.
- Google will verify the link and automatically upload your product data based on the file format.
- Add a File Using SFTP or Google Cloud Storage :
- Use the SFTP or Google Cloud Storage client to transfer your product data file to the specified location.
- Configure SFTP or Google Cloud Storage to connect to your Google Merchant Center Next account. You’ll need to provide the necessary credentials and access details.
- Google Merchant Center Next will automatically detect the new file and upload it.
Upload a File from Your Computer :
- Create a product data file in a supported format (e.g., CSV, XML, JSON) and make sure it contains all the required fields (product ID, title, description, price, availability, image URL, etc.).
- Locate your product data file on your computer and select it.
- Click the “Upload” button to initiate the upload process.
Method 2 : Use a Google Sheets template
- Use Google Sheets to create a new spreadsheet.
- You can use template provided by Google.
- Enter your product information into the designated columns.
Method 3 : Add product one by one
- Manually enter product details in the GMC Next interface.
- Try to enter as many details as possible
Method 4 : Add product using API
- Use the GMC Next API to programmatically upload products.
- This method is suitable for large-scale product uploads and automation.
- You can take help of your developer to install the API
- You can check this link out to get more information on API https://support.google.com/merchants/answer/14173602?hl=en&visit_id=638604797905945696-1236888263&p=help_14173602&rd=1
Step 6 : you can use any method to upload products as per your comfort. Once you upload the products, click on continue
And there you go, your feed is created
Google will validate your feed for errors and provide feedback. You can make necessary changes to your product data to resolve any errors.
If you’re wondering about the method I typically use, I prefer Method 4, which involves using an API. It may take a few extra brain cells to implement, but it pays off in the long run by automating updates to the feeds made on the website. All the information is fetched automatically, and when dealing with a large inventory, this is the quickest way to set up the feed.
In wrapping things up, Google Merchant Center Next is a fantastic tool to help you manage your product listings and get them in front of the right customers. Sure, the new layout and features might seem a bit overwhelming at first, but don’t worry—getting the hang of it is easier than you think. Whether you’re uploading products through files, using Google Sheets, adding them one by one, or using the API for larger tasks, there’s a method that’ll fit your needs perfectly.
The key is to keep your product info fresh and accurate so that your listings get noticed and drive sales.
Embrace these changes, dive in, and explore all the new opportunities that this update offers. Happy selling, and enjoy the journey!
