What is Size Type [size_type] Product Attribute? Google Free Listings (2025)

Accurately defining size types [size_type] enhances search filters and boosts visibility in Google’s free listings.

Written by
Torbjørn Flensted
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January 10, 2025

Shoppers often look for products that fit their specific body types or style preferences.

The Size type [size_type] attribute ensures that your products are easily discoverable by clearly describing their cut or fit.

By providing this information, you help customers filter and find exactly what they're looking for in Google’s free listings.

What is Size Type [size_type] Product Attribute?

The Size type [size_type] attribute allows you to specify the cut or fit of your product. Whether it’s a regular fit, petite, plus, or maternity, this attribute helps create accurate search filters. By detailing the size type, you enable customers to narrow down their search results to find products that match their sizing needs and preferences.

What are Free Listings? Google’s free listings appear organically across platforms like Search, Maps, YouTube, and the Shopping tab—without requiring advertisers to pay for clicks. By accurately submitting the Size type [size_type] attribute, you ensure your products appear in relevant filters, making it easier for customers to find items that meet their specific size requirements.

When your product feed includes detailed size type information, Google can better categorize and display your products to users who prioritize fit and sizing. This increases the likelihood of your products being seen by the right audience, ultimately driving higher engagement and sales.

Where Does Google Merchant Center Fit In?

Google Merchant Center is the platform where you manage your product feeds, including attributes like title [title], description [description], and size_type [size_type]. By accurately filling out the size_type [size_type] attribute, you enhance the clarity and searchability of your listings. This ensures that your products are correctly filtered and displayed to users searching for specific size types, thereby improving your visibility and competitiveness in the marketplace.

Minimum Requirements for Size Type [size_type]

To ensure your products are eligible and displayed correctly in free listings, adhere to the following requirements:

  1. Include the Size Type: Clearly describe the cut or fit of your product using one of the supported values. Avoid mixing this attribute with others like size, color, or material.
  2. Submit for Size-Variant Products: Use the size_type [size_type] attribute for all products that have variants distinguished by their size type. Ensure each variant shares the same item_group_id [item_group_id].
  3. Single or Dual Value Submission: Provide up to two values for the size type attribute, using supported values such as "petite" and "maternity." Do not exceed two values to maintain clarity and compliance.

Size Type [size_type] vs. Other Attributes

Understanding how the Size type [size_type] attribute interacts with other product attributes is crucial for accurate listings:

A) Size Type [size_type]

  • Definition: Describes the cut or fit of the product (e.g., regular, petite, plus, tall, big, maternity).
  • Usage: Use for products where the fit is a distinguishing feature and customers might search by it.

B) Size [size]

  • Definition: Specifies the actual size measurement of the product (e.g., S, M, L, 32, 34).
  • Usage: Use separately from size type to describe the size aspect, ensuring clear and distinct filtering.

C) Size System [size_system]

  • Definition: Indicates the sizing system used (e.g., US, EU, UK).
  • Usage: Use independently to clarify which sizing standard the product adheres to, without conflating it with size type or size.

By clearly distinguishing these attributes, you enable more precise search filters and better product categorization, enhancing the shopping experience for your customers.

Best Practices

Optimize your Size type [size_type] attribute by following these best practices:

  • Match Manufacturer’s Sizing: Align the size type with the manufacturer’s specifications. If your product already has a size type label, submit the matching supported value.
  • Represent Dual Size Types Accurately: For products that fit into two size categories, submit both values (e.g., "petite, maternity") to accurately represent the product.
  • Submit When Relevant: Use the size type attribute whenever the fit is a significant feature that influences purchasing decisions. This ensures customers find products that meet their specific sizing needs.
  • Combine with Size System and Size: To provide complete sizing information, also submit the size_system [size_system] and size [size] attributes. This combination helps customers understand exactly how the product will fit.
  • Use Clear and Recognizable Terms: Avoid abbreviations or internal terminology that may confuse shoppers. Use standard terms like "petite," "plus," or "maternity" to ensure clarity.
  • Ensure Consistency Across Feeds: Maintain consistent size type values across all your product feeds to avoid confusion and ensure accurate filtering.

Pro tip: Use an AI tool to optimize your product feed

Examples

Below are scenarios illustrating common mistakes and optimized corrections when using the size_type [size_type] attribute:

Google Size Type Attribute Examples

Scenario

Before (common mistakes)

After (optimized corrections)

Missing Size Type

No size_type attribute provided for the product.

size_type: regular

Using Unrecognized Abbreviations

size_type: reg

size_type: regular

Submitting More Than Two Size Types

size_type: petite, maternity, plus

size_type: petite, maternity

Using Non-English Terms

size_type: petite (French)

size_type: petite

Mixing Size Type with Other Attributes

size_type: plus, size: L, color: Blue

size_type: plus

Providing Vague Values

size_type: standard

size_type: regular

Incorrect Alignment with Size Attribute

size_type: petite, size: M

size_type: petite, size: 4

Omitting Size Type for Variants

size: L

size_type: tall, size: L

Using Unsupported Size Types

size_type: slim-fit

size_type: regular

Incorrect Size Type Capitalization

size_type: Petite

size_type: petite

Confusing Size Type with Material

size_type: cotton

size_type: regular

Using Size Type in Product Title Instead

Product Title: Classic Dress - Maternity Fit

size_type: maternity

Not Updating Size Type When Needed

size_type: regular (after switching to plus)

size_type: plus

Incorrect Size Type Formatting

size_type: "REGULAR"

size_type: regular

Pro tip: See two Google product feed examples (from 2 different online stores)

Why the Right Size Type Matters for Free Listings

Accurately describing the Size type [size_type] attribute enhances how Google categorizes and filters your products, making them more discoverable to customers who prioritize fit and sizing. When size types are correctly submitted, your products can appear in more targeted searches, increasing the likelihood of clicks and conversions. Additionally, clear size type descriptions help set accurate customer expectations, reducing the risk of returns due to sizing issues.

Moreover, well-defined size types contribute to a better shopping experience by allowing users to efficiently narrow down their search results based on fit preferences. This precision not only improves customer satisfaction but also enhances your store’s reputation for reliability and attention to detail.

Common Pitfalls & How to Avoid Them

Even experienced merchants can encounter issues with the size_type [size_type] attribute. Avoid these common pitfalls to maintain compliant and effective product listings:

  • Using Abbreviations or Internal Terms: Always use clear, descriptive size types that shoppers understand. Avoid shorthand or codes that aren’t widely recognized.
  • Mixing Size Type with Other Attributes: Keep size type descriptions separate from size, color, or material to ensure accurate filtering and categorization.
  • Submitting Irrelevant or Vague Values: Only use the size type attribute if it’s a distinguishing feature of the product. Avoid non-specific terms that don’t describe a size type.
  • Providing Multiple Values Beyond the Limit: The size type attribute accepts up to two values. Submitting more than two will result in excess values being ignored.
  • Ignoring Size Variants: If your product has multiple size type variants, ensure each variant is accurately described with its own size type value.
  • Using Non-English Terms: Submit size type values in English to maintain consistency and ensure they are recognized by Google’s systems.
  • Overlooking Important Size Types: If the size type is a key feature that influences purchasing decisions, neglecting to include it can reduce your product’s visibility in relevant searches.

Related Attributes

Accurate data across product attributes ensures your listings are comprehensive and easily searchable. Monitoring potential issues in the Merchant Center’s “Diagnostics” or “Needs attention” tabs can help maintain the integrity of your product data. If you utilize structured data on your website, map relevant fields to schema.org properties for enhanced compatibility. Below is a table of attributes—those marked as Required apply to free listings when relevant, while recommended ones can further improve your product’s discoverability.

Tools For Small Businesses Table
Attribute Additional Details
Id [id] Required
Unique identifier for each product.
Example: "SKU12345".
Ensure each product has a distinct ID to avoid duplication in your inventory.
Title [title] Required
Descriptive product title.
Example: "Men's Waterproof Hiking Boots".
A clear and concise title helps customers quickly understand the product.
Link [link] Required
URL to the product page.
Example: "https://yourstore.com/products/mens-waterproof-hiking-boots".
Ensure the link directs to the most relevant product page for accurate indexing.
Image link [image_link] Required
Main image URL.
Example: "https://yourstore.com/images/mens-waterproof-hiking-boots.jpg".
Use high-quality images that accurately represent the product to enhance customer trust.
Price [price] Required
Current price of the product.
Example: "$89.99".
Keep pricing information up-to-date to reflect any changes or promotions.
Description [description] Required
Detailed product description.
Example: "Durable hiking boots with waterproof material and reinforced soles for all terrains".
Provide comprehensive details to help customers make informed purchasing decisions.
Availability [availability] Required
Stock status.
Example: "In Stock".
Accurate availability information prevents customer frustration due to stock discrepancies.
Condition [condition] Required
Product condition.
Example: "New".
Clearly state the condition to set correct customer expectations.
Brand [brand] Required
Brand name.
Example: "Columbia".
Associating with a reputable brand can enhance product credibility.
Gtin [gtin] Required
Global Trade Item Number.
Example: "012345678905".
Ensure GTINs are accurate to improve product visibility in search results.
Mpn [mpn] Required
Manufacturer Part Number.
Example: "COL-HB-2024".
Use MPNs to uniquely identify products without GTINs, ensuring precise cataloging.
Multipack [multipack] Required
Number of items in a pack.
Example: "2-pack".
Clearly indicate multipacks to inform customers about the quantity they are purchasing.
Bundle [is_bundle] Required
Indicates if the product is a bundle.
Example: "Yes" for a camping gear set.
Bundles can offer better value and attract customers looking for complete solutions.
Color [color] Required
Main color of the product.
Example: "Forest Green".
Specify colors accurately to help customers find products that match their preferences.
Size [size] Required
Size specification.
Example: "11 US".
Provide standardized sizing to ensure customers select the correct fit.
Age group [age_group] Required
Target age demographic.
Example: "Adult".
Specify age groups to tailor product listings to the appropriate audience.
Gender [gender] Required
Intended gender for the product.
Example: "Unisex".
Clearly defining gender helps in accurately categorizing products for search and display.
Item group ID [item_group_id] Required
Identifier for product variants.
Example: "BOOT-COL-2024".
Use item group IDs to group similar products, enhancing organization and searchability.
Shipping [shipping] Required
Shipping details.
Example: "Free shipping within 5 business days".
Provide clear shipping information to set accurate delivery expectations.
Tax [tax] Required
Tax information.
Example: "Tax included".
Ensure tax details comply with regional regulations to avoid legal issues.
Pattern [pattern] Recommended
Description of the product's pattern.
Example: "Camouflage".
Including pattern details can attract customers looking for specific designs.
Material [material] Recommended
Main material used.
Example: "Gore-Tex fabric".
Highlighting materials helps customers understand product quality and functionality.
Additional image link [additional_image_link] Recommended
URLs of extra product images.
Example: "https://yourstore.com/images/mens-waterproof-hiking-boots-side.jpg".
Provide multiple images to showcase different angles and features of the product.
Size type [size_type] Optional
Size measurement system used.
Example: "US", "EU".
Specify the size type to accommodate international customers and reduce sizing confusion.
Size system [size_system] Recommended
Standardized size system.
Example: "US".
Using a standardized size system ensures consistency across different product listings.
Link in Google Search Index [canonical_link] Recommended
Canonical URL for better search indexing.
Example: "https://yourstore.com/products/mens-waterproof-hiking-boots".
Implementing canonical links helps prevent duplicate content issues and improves SEO performance.

FAQs About Size Type [size_type]

Does adding a size type attribute improve my product’s ranking?

Yes. By specifying the size type, you enhance the relevance of your listing for users searching for specific fits, such as “petite dress” or “plus size jeans.” This targeted matching can increase your product’s visibility and click-through rates, as shoppers are more likely to engage with listings that meet their fit preferences.

What if my product doesn’t have a specific size type?

If your product doesn’t feature a distinct size type or it’s irrelevant to the purchase decision, you don’t need to use the size_type [size_type] attribute. Only submit this attribute when the size type is a significant feature that distinguishes your product from others.

Can I submit multiple size types for one product?

Yes, but only up to two supported values. If your product fits into two size categories, submit both values separated by a comma (e.g., "petite, maternity"). Submitting more than two values will result in excess entries being ignored.

Should I include the size type in the product title or description as well?

Yes. While the size_type [size_type] attribute helps with filtering and search accuracy, including the size type in the product title and description can enhance clarity and ensure that shoppers understand the fit features of your product.

How specific should the size type descriptions be?

Use clear and specific terms that accurately describe the fit. For example, use “petite” instead of just “small” or “plus” instead of “large” to provide a precise description that shoppers can easily understand.

Can I use non-English words for size types?

No. Submit size type values in English to ensure they are recognized and processed correctly by Google’s systems. Using non-English terms can lead to misinterpretation and reduce the effectiveness of your listings.

How often should I update the size type attribute?

Update the size_type [size_type] attribute whenever you introduce new size type variants or make changes to existing ones. Regular updates ensure that your product data remains accurate and relevant, maintaining high visibility in search results.

What if my product’s size type changes over time?

If the size type of your product changes (e.g., introducing a new fit category or discontinuing an old one), update the size_type [size_type] attribute accordingly to reflect the new fit. This keeps your listings accurate and ensures they appear in relevant searches for the updated size type.

Conclusion

The Size type [size_type] attribute is essential for accurately describing the cut or fit of your products, enhancing their visibility in Google’s free listings. By providing clear and specific size type information, you enable customers to find products that match their fit preferences, improving search relevance and increasing the likelihood of conversions.

Ensure that you only submit the size type attribute when it’s a distinguishing feature and that the descriptions are clear and accurate. Avoid common pitfalls like using abbreviations, mixing attributes, or submitting irrelevant values. By following best practices and maintaining accurate product data, you can enhance the shopping experience for your customers and boost your store’s performance in a competitive online marketplace.

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What is Size Type [size_type] Product Attribute? Google Free Listings (2025)

This is an article written by:

Passionate SEO expert, Torbjørn Flensted, boasts two decades of industry experience. As the founder of SEO.ai and having run an SEO agency for 13 years, he's spent the last decade pioneering cutting-edge tools, transforming how agencies and professionals approach Search Engine Optimization.