When selling on Amazon, you might notice that some of your listings do not appear in search results. One of the most common reasons for this is the “Search Suppressed” error. But what exactly does this error mean, and how can you fix it? In this article, we will explain the causes of the Search Suppressed error and provide solutions to resolve it.
What is the Search Suppressed Error?
The Search Suppressed error occurs when a product listing does not meet Amazon’s listing standards and is removed from search results. Amazon enforces strict guidelines to ensure a consistent shopping experience for customers. If a listing fails to comply with these rules, it may be suppressed, meaning customers will not be able to find it through search queries.
While the listing remains active in your seller account, it becomes invisible to customers, leading to a direct loss of sales.
Common Causes of the Search Suppressed Error
Several factors can trigger this error. Below are the most common reasons:
1. Incorrect or Incomplete Product Title
- Amazon requires product titles to follow specific formatting guidelines.
- Titles that are too long or too short can cause issues.
- Using all capital letters or unnecessary symbols can also trigger suppression.
Solution: Adjust your product title to meet Amazon’s length requirements (usually a maximum of 200 characters) and remove unnecessary words or symbols.
2. Non-Compliant Main Image
- Amazon has strict rules for main product images, including a white background (RGB 255,255,255).
- The image must display the entire product without additional text, logos, or graphics.
Solution: Ensure that your main product image follows Amazon’s image requirements. If you’re unsure, review Amazon’s official guidelines for product images.
3. Missing Product Details (Bullet Points & Descriptions)
- Listings with incomplete bullet points or descriptions may be suppressed.
- The Key Product Features section is especially important and should not be left empty.
Solution: Provide complete and accurate bullet points and product descriptions. Ensure that customers have clear and detailed information about your product.
4. Missing or Incorrect Product Attributes
- Missing essential product attributes like size, color, or material can cause suppression.
- Some categories require a GTIN (UPC, EAN, or ISBN) for proper listing.
Solution: Fill in all required product attributes correctly and ensure that your listing includes the necessary UPC or EAN code.
5. Incorrect Category or Brand Name
- Listing your product under the wrong category may result in suppression.
- Incorrectly entering your brand name or using an unauthorized brand can also cause issues.
Solution: Double-check that your product is listed under the correct category and with the proper brand name. If you have issues with your brand name, verify your Amazon Brand Registry status.
