My Variants have unique UPCs. The Google: GTIN metafield is on the Product. Can I just add a Google: GTIN metafield to my variants or is there some other way I need to handle this?
Topic summary
A merchant has product variants with unique UPCs and needs to know how to properly add GTIN (Global Trade Item Number) metafields for Google integration.
Key Recommendations:
- Add GTIN metafields at the variant level rather than just the product level, since each variant has a unique identifier
- GTINs can be added through the variant inventory section under “Barcode” field
- Alternatively, configure GTIN metafields via Shopify Admin > Settings > Custom Data > Variants
Implementation Steps:
- Navigate to specific products and access individual variants
- Enable “This variant has a SKU or barcode” in the inventory section
- Enter unique GTINs/UPCs in the barcode field for each variant
- Ensure the Google channel app pulls GTIN data from variant level
Purpose:
Proper variant-level GTIN mapping ensures Google Merchant Center correctly differentiates products and prevents listing disapprovals. One response suggests third-party tools for automated GTIN mapping if manual entry becomes problematic.
Hey there,
You can add the GTIN for your variants by going to the specific product(s) > Variants > +Add Variants > Inventory > “This variant has a SKU or barcode” and finally enter the GTIN under “Barcode.”
Now, if you ever encounter a situation where the GTIN or any other UPC is not being mapped on Google Merchant Center, I recommend trying AdNabu. It maps the unique GTIN and sets it according to Google’s guidelines for GTINs/UPCs. This way, you can avoid product disapproval.