How to List Products for Free on Google Shopping

Google Shopping presents a significant opportunity for online retailers to connect with customers through strategic product placement. With the right steps, you can enhance your visibility and reach customers looking for products just like yours. This guide explains how to take advantage of Google’s free listings through the Merchant Center platform.

What is Google Shopping?

Google Shopping is a comparison-shopping engine within Google Search. It allows users to browse products from various retailers in one location. Listings appear on the Shopping tab, Google Images, and other surfaces such as Google Lens and YouTube.

Initially, Google Shopping only featured paid listings. However, a 2020 update allowed retailers to submit products for free, creating a new dynamic in online retail. As of 2025, free listings make up a major part of Shopping results, providing retailers with an excellent opportunity to reach customers organically.

A display of products available on Google Shopping

Is Google Shopping Really Free?

Yes, Google Shopping does offer free listings for retailers. Following the 2020 update, all retailers can submit their products without incurring costs. This is crucial for businesses of all sizes. Even if you are running successful paid shopping ads, free listings can further enhance your visibility at no additional expense.

Where Will Free Shopping Listings Appear on Google?

Free product listings are eligible to appear across multiple Google properties, offering broad organic visibility without incurring click charges. These placements go beyond the Shopping tab, enabling your products to surface during various user journeys.

Common free listing placements include:

Shopping Tab

Free listings appear beneath sponsored results. This placement is important for attracting potential customers actively searching for products. In fact, data shows that listings on the Shopping tab can lead to up to a 30% increase in click-through rates compared to standard search listings.

AI Mode

Product listings are often featured in Google's AI mode, which integrates products into conversational responses for relevant searches. This unique placement can provide more interactive experiences for users, increasing engagement with your listings.

Search Listings

When users perform general searches, relevant product data such as price, availability, and ratings may appear right in the search results. A study found that 45% of shoppers discover products during their regular search activities, significantly broadening your reach.

How to List Products for Free on Google Shopping

To utilize Google Shopping's free listings effectively, follow these steps:

Step 1: Create a Google Merchant Center Account

Start by creating a Google Merchant Center account. This platform allows you to manage your product listings and optimize them for visibility.

1. Visit the Google Merchant Center website.

2. Click on "Get Started" and follow the prompts to set up your account.

3. Verify your website and claim your URL to establish ownership.

   
   

Step 2: Prepare Your Product Data

Once your account is live, gather the necessary product data, including:

• Product title

• Description

• Price

• Availability

• Images

  
  

Ensure this information is accurate and adheres to Google’s guidelines to avoid discrepancies that could lead to product disapprovals.

Step 3: Upload Your Product Feed

After compiling your product data, you can upload it to the Merchant Center through:

• Manual Upload: Suitable if you have a smaller inventory. You can enter products directly into the Merchant Center.

• Feed Upload: Ideal for larger inventories. Create a product feed file in formats such as CSV or XML, then upload it directly to the platform.

  
  

Step 4: Optimize Your Listings

To maximize visibility, make sure to optimize your product listings:

• Incorporate relevant keywords into your titles and descriptions.

• Use high-quality images that accurately represent your products. Listings with appealing visuals can enhance customer interest and drive traffic by up to 70%.

  
  

Step 5: Monitor Performance

Once your products are listed, keep an eye on their performance through the Merchant Center. You can track metrics such as impressions, clicks, and conversions to gauge the effectiveness of your listings.

Best Practices for Free Listings

To fully leverage your free listings, here are essential best practices:

• Use High-Quality Images: Make sure your product images are visually appealing. A clear, attractive image can significantly impact click-through rates.

• Craft Engaging Descriptions: Write product descriptions that are informative and captivating. Highlight unique features and key benefits to attract potential buyers. For instance, if you sell a kitchen appliance, mention how it saves time in meal preparation.

  
  

• Stay Compliant with Policies: Familiarize yourself with Google’s policies regarding product listings. Adhering to these guidelines helps prevent disapprovals, keeping your listings active.

  
  

• Regularly Update Your Feed: Maintain up-to-date product information, especially regarding pricing and availability. Regular updates can foster trust with customers and improve rankings.

  
  

Your Path to Success with Google Shopping

Listing products for free on Google Shopping is a powerful way for online retailers to enhance visibility and connect with potential customers. By following the steps in this guide and implementing best practices, you can effectively use Google’s platform to showcase your products without incurring advertising costs.

With the right strategies in place, your free listings could drive substantial traffic to your online store, leading to increased sales and better customer engagement. Take full advantage of Google Shopping and watch your business thrive!