Is the google_product_category attribute mandatory for staples?

It is optional, but highly recommended to ensure accurate classification. If you omit it, Google will attempt to categorize the item automatically, which may result in less precise categorization.

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

You can use either the numeric ID 948 or the full path Office Supplies > General Office Supplies > Staples. The numeric ID is often preferred because it is language-independent.

Does my product_type attribute replace the google_product_category?

No. The product_type is a free-form field for your own internal classification system, while google_product_category must strictly follow Google's predefined taxonomy.

Google product category

Staples

Category ID948

Full path for the feedOffice Supplies > General Office Supplies > Staples

Product examples in this category (US market)

Real products found in Google Shopping, shown as examples.

Tru Red Standard Staples
up&up Standard Staples
Pen+gear Standard Staples
Fasten Pro Heavy Duty Staples
Premium Staples
Swingline Standard Staples
Stanley Heavy-Duty Staple & Brad Assortment
Bostitch Standard Premium Staples
Powernail Narrow Crown Flooring Staples
Bostitch Heavy-Duty Staples
Office Depot Premium Full Strip Staples
Swingline S.F. Premium Staples
Rapid High Capacity Staples
Surebonder Heavy Duty Staples
Universal Standard Chisel Point Staples

About the Staples Category

The Staples category, identified by ID 948, is a specific classification within the Google product taxonomy under Office Supplies. It is intended for products designed primarily for binding documents or securing materials using metallic fasteners.

What Belongs in This Category

This category covers a variety of mechanical fastening tools used in home and professional environments. Based on examples found in the US market, this category includes:

Standard desk staples used for daily paper filing.
Heavy-duty staples designed for industrial or high-capacity fastening tasks.
Specialized fasteners like narrow crown flooring staples.
Chisel point staples intended for specific stapling machine compatibility.
Assorted packs of staples and brads for heavy-duty manual or electric tools.

What Does Not Belong Here

Products that do not serve as direct paper-binding fasteners should be classified elsewhere. If your item is for joining materials with adhesives or organizing items, check these neighboring categories: Office Tape, Paper Clips & Clamps, Labels & Tags, Correction Fluids, Pens & Tapes, Mounting Putty, or Rubber Bands. Additionally, items like Tacks & Pushpins or Brass Fasteners belong in their respective categories. Ensure your product is not a raw Paper Product or a finishing item like Laminating Film, Pouches & Sheets.

Implementation in Your Feed

To assign this category, use the numeric ID 948 or the full path: Office Supplies > General Office Supplies > Staples. While the attribute is optional, providing the specific ID helps Google categorize your items accurately, as the attribute is critical for identifying relevant product policies.

Frequently asked questions

Is the google_product_category attribute mandatory for staples?: It is optional, but highly recommended to ensure accurate classification. If you omit it, Google will attempt to categorize the item automatically, which may result in less precise categorization.
Should I use the ID or the full path in my feed?: You can use either the numeric ID 948 or the full path Office Supplies > General Office Supplies > Staples. The numeric ID is often preferred because it is language-independent.
Does my product_type attribute replace the google_product_category?: No. The product_type is a free-form field for your own internal classification system, while google_product_category must strictly follow Google's predefined taxonomy.

This category in other languages

ru: Канцелярские товары > Общие принадлежности > Скобы для степлеров
uk: Канцелярські товари > Загальне приладдя > Скоби для степлерів