Google | Crafting an appeal letter for GMC account inaccuracies

Communicating effectively with Google is essential to reinstate a suspended Google Merchant Center (GMC) account. A well-structured appeal letter that explicitly details the corrective actions taken showcases your dedication to Google’s policies. To help you in that process, here's a template to help you craft an appeal letter tailored to address the inaccuracies that prompted the suspension.

Introduction: Your Appeal Letter's Core Message

The following information below is an example of your appeal letter. It begins with a direct statement of your intent: to address the suspension and outline the steps taken to resolve the issues. This introduction sets the tone for the rest of the letter, clearly stating your commitment to compliance and your desire to restore your account.

Dear Google Merchant Center Team,

My name is [insert your name here], and I represent [insert your company name here]. Our account was suspended due to inaccuracies, and this letter details the actions we've taken to correct these issues. The sections below provide information about our company, operations, and the steps we've taken to comply with Google's policies.

Company overview

Start by establishing your company’s credibility and legitimacy. Provide clear, accurate information that gives Google a positive first impression of your business.

1. Account and website information:

• Website: Provide a link to your website. Ensure it is functional, professional, and accurately represents your business.
• Merchant center ID: Include your Merchant Center ID so Google can easily locate your account.
• Ads ID: If you use Google Ads, include your Ads ID to show the connection between your advertising and merchant activities.

2. Background details:

• About us: Give a concise and informative overview of your company. Include your company's history, mission, and the types of products or services you offer.
• Business license: Confirm your company's legal status by providing your business license number or registration details.

Business operations

Demonstrate the consistency and reliability of your business operations across different platforms. This helps Google understand the scope and legitimacy of your online presence.

1. Amazon presence:

• Store link: If you have an Amazon store, provide a link. This shows you have an established presence on a trusted platform.
• Operational consistency: Briefly explain how your operations and product information are consistent between your Google Merchant Center and Amazon Seller Central accounts. This highlights your commitment to maintaining high standards across all platforms.
• Product listing example: Share a link to a specific product listing on Amazon. This gives Google a direct example of the quality and accuracy of your product information.

2. Facebook engagement:

• Rating link: If your business has a Facebook page, include a link to the reviews or ratings section. Positive customer feedback can strengthen your appeal.
• Rating confirmation: Include a screenshot of your Facebook page ratings to reinforce the positive feedback visually.

3. Alibaba/Tmall/Taobao operations:

• Store link: If you operate on Alibaba, Tmall, or Taobao, provide a link to your store on these platforms.
• Product listing example: Include a link to a specific product listing to showcase your products on these platforms.
• Store profile link: Provide a link to your store profile to give a complete picture of your presence on these platforms.

4. Offline presence:

• Store photo: If you have a physical store, include a photo to show its existence and professional appearance.
• Product photo: Add photos of your products displayed in your physical store. This demonstrates the tangible nature of your business.

Operational infrastructure

Provide details about your operational infrastructure to showcase your business capabilities and reliability. This helps reassure Google of your ability to fulfill orders and manage inventory effectively.

1. Warehouse partnerships: Briefly describe your warehouse partnerships, including the locations of your warehouses. If you work with overseas warehouses, mention this to demonstrate your capacity for international logistics.

2. Factory details: If you own a factory, provide its location and highlight any key equipment or technologies that demonstrate your production capabilities.

Company recognition

Build credibility by showcasing any positive news coverage, awards, or recognitions your company has received. This helps demonstrate your company's positive reputation and achievements.

1. Financing news: If your company has secured funding or investments, include links to relevant news articles or press releases.

2. Business news: Share links to positive news articles or press releases featuring your company or its products/services.

3. Awards received: List any awards or industry recognitions your company has received.

4. Role and contributions: If you hold a significant position in the company or have made notable contributions to its success, you may briefly describe your role and achievements.

5. Confidential information: If there's any sensitive information you prefer not to share publicly, you can mention it here without providing specific details. For example, you might say, "We have also achieved [confidential and proprietary] milestones that further demonstrate our company's strength and stability."

Corrective actions taken

This is a critical section of your appeal letter. Provide a clear and detailed breakdown of the steps you have taken to rectify the issues that led to your suspension, demonstrating your commitment to long-term compliance.

1. Implemented changes list: Provide a detailed, numbered list of all the changes you've made. For each change, be sure to:

• Identify the original issue: Clearly state the inaccuracy or policy violation you were flagged for.
• Describe the corrective action taken: Explain exactly what you did to fix the issue and ensure compliance.
• Explain how this ensures compliance: Connect your corrective action to the relevant Google policy, demonstrating your understanding and commitment to adhering to their guidelines.

Closing: Reiterate partnership and commitment

End your letter by reinforcing your value for the partnership with Google and your dedication to upholding their policies. Express your request for a review and account reinstatement and offer further assistance.

We value our partnership with Google and are committed to adhering to Google's policies. We request a review of our appeal and consideration for reinstating our account. We are ready to provide any further assistance to expedite this process.

Thank you for your consideration.

Best regards,

[insert your name here]

This guide is designed to help you prepare a strong GMC appeal letter by focusing on correcting inaccuracies and demonstrating compliance. Demonstrating commitment to Google’s policies is essential. A well-structured appeal letter increases your chances of reinstatement and reinforces your credibility with Google. Highlight how your business adds value to customers through Google’s platform.

By following these guidelines, you can craft a clear, comprehensive appeal letter that increases your chances of a successful reinstatement. Remember to adapt the information to your specific circumstances and provide accurate information to support your appeal.