Should I use the numeric ID or the full path for the google_product_category attribute?

Both are accepted, but using the numeric ID 4217 is preferred because it is language-independent and less prone to formatting errors in your feed file.

Is it mandatory to include this category in my feed?

The attribute is optional. However, if you omit it, Google will attempt to categorize your products automatically, which may result in incorrect classifications.

Can I use product_type to replace the google_product_category?

No. The product_type attribute is a free-form field for your internal organization, whereas google_product_category must adhere to Google's specific taxonomy.

Google product category

Bus Tubs

Category ID4217

Full path for the feedBusiness & Industrial > Food Service > Bus Tubs

Product examples in this category (US market)

Real products found in Google Shopping, shown as examples.

Crestware Bus Tub
Vollrath Signature Heavy-Duty Bus Box
Rubbermaid Bus/Utility Box
Quantum Bussing Tub
Stainless Steel Bus Tub
Choice Polypropylene Bus Tub
Carlisle Comfort Curve Bus Box
Global Industrial NSF Plastic Bus Tub
Winco Dish Box
Restaurantware Rw Clean Plastic Bus Tub
Tablecraft Bus Box
Kratos Plastic Bus Tub
NSF Certified Divided Bus Tub
Thunder Group Bus Box
Cambro Regal Cambox Plastic Bus Tub

Bus Tubs Category Overview

The Bus Tubs category, identified by ID 4217, is part of the Food Service taxonomy path. It specifically encompasses containers used within professional kitchen and dining environments for efficient bussing and organization.

What Belongs in This Category

This category is intended for professional-grade bussing and utility boxes used to transport dishware, cutlery, and kitchen scraps. Based on examples from the US market, appropriate products include:

Heavy-duty polypropylene and plastic bus tubs
NSF-certified divided bussing boxes
Professional dish boxes and utility containers
Standard restaurant-grade bussing bins

What Does Not Belong Here

Items designed for different operational needs in a restaurant should be classified elsewhere. Do not include products that belong in the following neighbouring categories:

Food Service Carts: Heavy-duty structures with wheels for transport.
Food Service Baskets: Serveware for presenting bread or appetizers.
Ice Bins: Insulated containers specifically for ice storage.
Disposable Tableware and Serveware: Single-use items for customer food consumption.
Take-Out Containers: Packaging for transporting meals off-site.

Always ensure your product matches the specific utility of a bussing container before choosing this path to ensure proper Google categorization.

Feed Implementation

You can populate the google_product_category attribute by using the numeric ID 4217 or the full path: Business & Industrial > Food Service > Bus Tubs. While this attribute is optional, providing the ID ensures Google applies the correct policies to your kitchen supplies without relying on automated, often inaccurate, systems.

Frequently asked questions

Should I use the numeric ID or the full path for the google_product_category attribute?: Both are accepted, but using the numeric ID 4217 is preferred because it is language-independent and less prone to formatting errors in your feed file.
Is it mandatory to include this category in my feed?: The attribute is optional. However, if you omit it, Google will attempt to categorize your products automatically, which may result in incorrect classifications.
Can I use product_type to replace the google_product_category?: No. The product_type attribute is a free-form field for your internal organization, whereas google_product_category must adhere to Google's specific taxonomy.

This category in other languages

ru: Бизнес и промышленность > Общественное питание > Контейнеры для грязной посуды
uk: Бізнес та промисловість > Громадське харчування > Контейнери для брудного посуду