Is it mandatory to use the google_product_category attribute?

No, it is optional. However, defining it explicitly is recommended because Google's automatic classification can sometimes be inaccurate or too broad.

Should I use the ID or the text path?

Both are accepted. Using the numeric ID 502984 is often preferred as it is language-independent and less prone to formatting errors in your feed file.

How is this category different from the product_type attribute?

The google_product_category is a strict taxonomy defined by Google, whereas product_type is a free-form attribute where you can use your own internal naming conventions.

Google product category

Lattice

Category ID502984

Full path for the feedHardware > Fencing & Barriers > Lattice

Product examples in this category (US market)

Real products found in Google Shopping, shown as examples.

Freesia Decorative Screen Panel
Vita Camden Privacy Screen
NatraHedge Artificial Privacy Grass Wall Decor Faux Trellis Expandable Lattice Panels
Dura-Trel Wellington Vinyl Wall Trellis
Outdoor Plant Support Trellis Willow Expandable Lattice Fence Panel
Deckorators Privacy Lattice
Boardwalk Polypropylene Decorative Screen Panel
Privacy Diamond Vinyl Lattice Panel
Style Selections Vinyl Traditional Lattice
Privacy Square Vinyl Lattice
Sierra Cedar Privacy Vinyl Lattice Panel

Lattice Category Overview

The Lattice category, identified by Google product category ID 502984, is part of the Hardware > Fencing & Barriers branch of the Google taxonomy. This category is specifically designed for products that serve as decorative or privacy-focused structural screening elements.

What Belongs in this Category

This category includes products intended for decorative screening, structural support for plants, or visual privacy. Examples found in the US market include:

Vinyl or polypropylene decorative screen panels.
Expandable lattice panels used as artificial faux trellis wall decor.
Outdoor plant support trellises.
Privacy diamond and square vinyl lattice sheets.
Cedar privacy lattice panels.

What Does Not Belong Here

If your items do not fit the description above, check these neighbouring categories:

Fence Pickets: Individual vertical boards used for standard fencing construction.
Fence Panels: Pre-assembled sections for standard outdoor perimeter fencing.
Garden Borders & Edging: Small, low-profile strips intended for defining flower beds or path boundaries.
Safety & Crowd Control Barriers: Heavy-duty barricades used for pedestrian management or construction zones.
Fence & Gate Accessories: Mounting brackets, hinges, or latches required for installation.

Items meant for swinging entryways belong in the Gates category, while structural support elements like poles are categorized under Fence Posts & Rails.

Feed Implementation

In your feed, use either the numeric ID 502984 or the full path: Hardware > Fencing & Barriers > Lattice. Note that providing this category is optional, as Google may attempt auto-classification, but explicitly setting the category ensures higher accuracy and better alignment with Google Shopping requirements.

Frequently asked questions

Is it mandatory to use the google_product_category attribute?: No, it is optional. However, defining it explicitly is recommended because Google's automatic classification can sometimes be inaccurate or too broad.
Should I use the ID or the text path?: Both are accepted. Using the numeric ID 502984 is often preferred as it is language-independent and less prone to formatting errors in your feed file.
How is this category different from the product_type attribute?: The google_product_category is a strict taxonomy defined by Google, whereas product_type is a free-form attribute where you can use your own internal naming conventions.

This category in other languages

ru: Оборудование и технические изделия > Ограждения и барьеры > Штакетник
uk: Обладнання та технічні вироби > Огорожі та бар'єри > Штахетник