How to Set Up a Google Merchant Center Account in 7 min.
(2025 Tutorial)

If you want to run profitable Google Shopping Ads, the very first step is learning how to set up a Google Merchant Center account. Merchant Center is where you give Google all the details about your store and products so they can appear in paid ads and free listings.

But many store owners get stuck during setup. If your business information doesn’t match your site, if your domain verification in Shopify fails, or if your shipping and return policies don’t align with what’s published on your website, your products can easily get disapproved.

To help, we created a complete Google Merchant Center setup checklist that walks you through every step — from the technical requirements to the compliance details most beginners miss.

Here’s what you’ll cover inside the checklist:

• Merchant Center Business Information Setup

Learn exactly how to enter your business name, customer support email, contact page URL, and other details in Merchant Center — and why they must match your Shopify store word-for-word.

• Merchant Center Domain Verification (Shopify Guide)

Step-by-step instructions on how to claim and verify your store domain in Merchant Center. Includes the easiest method for Shopify stores so you don’t need to edit code.

• Merchant Center Shipping Policy Setup Guide

Discover how to correctly add shipping countries, delivery times, and rates in Merchant Center. This section ensures your shipping costs perfectly match your Shopify checkout (even a small mismatch can cause disapprovals).

• Merchant Center Return Shipping Setup

Learn how to add your refund and return policy, including return windows, exchanges, and processing times. Google requires this info to build trust with both customers and Shopping Ads.

Why This Checklist Matters

Correctly setting up your Merchant Center means:

• Faster product approvals

• Lower risk of account suspension

• Stronger trust signals for Google and your customers

• A seamless connection between Shopify and Google Ads

Once your account is verified and approved, you’ll be ready to connect it to Shopify so your products sync automatically — no spreadsheets, no guesswork.