Google promotions disapproved: free shipping available without code
Google rejected the promotion because free shipping is already available without the advertised code or promotional condition.
Symptom
The promotion claims a free-shipping incentive, but the live store already grants the same benefit automatically.
Exact cause
Google flagged this state because a promotion in your Merchant Center account has been disapproved. Check the specific disapproval reason in your Merchant Center dashboard and address the underlying issue.
This is usually a promotion logic problem: Google will not show a promotional badge for a benefit shoppers already receive by default.
Which system wins
Google promotion review has two stages: policy review and SKU review. Under review is usually a wait-state, while a disapproval means the promotion details, landing-page promise, or redemption behavior failed Google’s review.
Correct edit point
Fix the live shipping rules or change the promotional promise so the Merchant Center promotion reflects a real incremental offer.
Manual fix steps
- Open Google Merchant Center → Marketing → Promotions.
- Find the disapproved promotion and check the reason code.
- Fix the issue (e.g., ensure the promo code works, discount is applied correctly, terms are clear).
- Resubmit the promotion for review.
Validation steps
- Test the promotion on the live storefront, including the redemption code or landing-page promise.
- Check Merchant Center promotions for the current review stage and exact disapproval reason.
- Resubmit the promotion and expect policy review plus SKU review before it can go live.
Expected resolution time
Resubmitted promotions are reviewed within 12–24 hours.
Scan your store for this exact issue
Check whether your storefront is showing the same public signal problem described in this article before you connect the app. Start with promotions disapproved free shipping available without code.