Should I use the ID or the full path for my feed?

You can use either the numeric ID 1663 or the full path 'Hardware > Tools > Lathes'. The numeric ID is preferred because it is language-independent.

Is it mandatory to include the google_product_category attribute?

It is optional, but highly recommended. If you omit it, Google will attempt to categorize your product automatically, which may result in lower ad performance due to classification errors.

How do I distinguish between a Lathe and a Milling Machine?

A lathe rotates the workpiece against a fixed tool, while a milling machine typically rotates a cutting tool against a fixed workpiece. These are distinct categories in the taxonomy.

Google product category

Lathes

Category ID1663

Full path for the feedHardware > Tools > Lathes

Product examples in this category (US market)

Real products found in Google Shopping, shown as examples.

Oneway Lathe
Artisan Mini Lathe
Garvee Benchtop Wood Lathe Machine
Robust Scout wood lathe
Apprentice Mini Lathe
Variable-Speed Woodworking Lathe Machine
Robust Sweet lathe
Laguna Tools Revo Lathe
Powermatic Short Bed Lathe
Grizzly Industrial Variable-Speed Wood Lathe
WEN Variable Speed Wood Lathe
King Industrial Variable Speed Pen Lathe
VEVOR Metal Lathe Machine

Understanding the Lathes Category

The Lathes category, identified by ID 1663, falls under the path Hardware > Tools > Lathes within the Google product taxonomy. This category is designed for machine tools that rotate a workpiece on an axis to perform various operations like sanding, turning, drilling, or cutting.

Products that belong in this category include machinery used for shaping wood or metal. Examples from the US market include benchtop wood lathes, variable-speed woodworking lathe machines, professional-grade wood lathes, and specialized metal lathe machines used in workshops. These machines are essential for turning, facing, and cutting materials with precision.

Items that do not belong here include general power tools and hand tools found in neighboring categories. For instance, do not list Milling Machines, Drill Presses, or general Power Saws in this category. Similarly, accessories for your lathe should not be placed here if they fall under Tool Clamps & Vises or other specific hardware categories. If you are selling manual carving chisels or gouges, those must be categorized under Carving Chisels & Gouges, not as a powered lathe.

There are no subcategories for this specific taxonomy level; 1663 is the most granular classification available for this product type.

To apply this category to your feed, you may use the numeric ID 1663 or the full string path: Hardware > Tools > Lathes. While the attribute is technically optional, providing it manually prevents Google from assigning an incorrect or overly general category to your items. Remember that product_type remains a free-form field for your internal organization and does not substitute for the required google_product_category attribute.

Frequently asked questions

Should I use the ID or the full path for my feed?: You can use either the numeric ID 1663 or the full path 'Hardware > Tools > Lathes'. The numeric ID is preferred because it is language-independent.
Is it mandatory to include the google_product_category attribute?: It is optional, but highly recommended. If you omit it, Google will attempt to categorize your product automatically, which may result in lower ad performance due to classification errors.
How do I distinguish between a Lathe and a Milling Machine?: A lathe rotates the workpiece against a fixed tool, while a milling machine typically rotates a cutting tool against a fixed workpiece. These are distinct categories in the taxonomy.

This category in other languages

ru: Оборудование и технические изделия > Инструменты > Токарные станки
uk: Обладнання та технічні вироби > Інструменти > Токарні верстати