How to Configure GMC Shipping and Return Settings — Match Your Website Policies
Your GMC shipping and return settings must exactly match what's on your website. Mismatches between your GMC configuration and your website policies are a top cause of rejections and suspensions.
Why This Happens
Your GMC shipping settings don't match the shipping costs or delivery times on your website
Return policy settings in GMC contradict the return policy published on your website
You haven't configured shipping or return settings in GMC at all
Changes to your website policies weren't reflected in your GMC settings
What Google Requires
Shipping costs in GMC must match shipping costs displayed on your website
Delivery time estimates in GMC must match what you promise on your website
Return window in GMC must match the return window stated on your website return policy
Free shipping thresholds must be consistent between GMC and your website
Shipping regions/countries must match where you actually ship to
Common Mistakes
Setting flat-rate shipping in GMC when your website offers free shipping over a threshold
Return window in GMC is 30 days but website says 14 days (or vice versa)
Not updating GMC settings when website shipping rates change
Configuring shipping for countries you don't actually ship to
Forgetting to set up return settings in GMC altogether
How to Fix This
Review your website shipping policy page and note all shipping methods, costs, and delivery times
In GMC, go to Shipping and returns > Shipping settings and configure each shipping method to match
Set delivery time ranges that match your website promises (e.g., 3-5 business days)
If you offer free shipping over a threshold, configure this in GMC's shipping settings
Go to Shipping and returns > Return policies and set your return window to match your website
Configure return costs (free returns, customer pays, etc.) to match your website policy
Double-check that shipping regions match your actual delivery areas
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if my shipping settings don't match my website?+
Mismatched shipping settings can cause product disapprovals or account warnings. Google cross-checks your GMC settings against your website during reviews. Consistent information is required.
Do I need to set up return settings in GMC?+
Yes. Google requires return policy settings in GMC. Even if your website has a return policy page, you must also configure return settings within your Merchant Center account.
How do I handle multiple shipping zones?+
Create separate shipping services in GMC for each zone or region. Each service can have its own rate and delivery time, matching what you offer on your website.
Check your store now
Free compliance scan — 47 rules checked in minutes.