Google Now Supports Structured Data For Car Dealership Inventory

In the fast-paced digital age, car dealerships must stay ahead of the curve, using the latest tools and techniques to ensure optimum online visibility. Understanding the evolving needs of businesses, Google has introduced a new way for auto dealers to take advantage of the Vehicles for Sale inventory listings using structured data. These listings feature prominently in Google Business Profiles.

  • What it is: Google’s vehicle listing structured data is a feature designed exclusively for car dealerships, allowing them to display their inventory right on Google Search prominently.
  • Geographic availability: Currently, US dealerships and territories can leverage this cutting-edge feature.
  • The two methods: Dealerships can choose between the existing feed method or the newly introduced structured data markup to list their cars.

Structured Data Markup vs. Feed Files

The new structured data option offers an alternative to the original feed-based system. Rest assured, if you use the original feed system, you will not experience any interruptions, as it is not going away. This new alternative may be ideal for some dealerships interested in getting their inventory into their Google Business Profile.

Structured Data Markup vs. Feed Files
  • Advantages of Structured Data Markup:
    • Simplicity: Implementing and maintaining the markup on websites is straightforward and hassle-free. Many recognized auto web platform providers already offer structured data for their vehicle listings.
    • Ideal for beginners: New dealerships or those unfamiliar with Google’s vehicle listings will find the markup particularly user-friendly.
  • Advantages of Feed Files:
    • Efficiency: Google instantly recognizes every piece of inventory data included in the feed files.
    • Support: Dedicated one-on-one assistance ensures any feed-related challenges are addressed.
    • Detail: This method accommodates more detailed properties for vehicle inventory, providing a comprehensive listing experience.

The Benefits of the New Structured Data Method

  • Ease of Entry: Google’s commitment to inclusivity shines with this feature, ensuring even smaller dealerships can effortlessly list their inventory.
  • Monitoring: Google updated the Search Console to equip dealerships with intuitive reports and tools, ensuring structured data is always up to par.
  • Rich Results Testing: Before finalizing their listings, dealers can use the Rich Results Test to ensure their structured data functions accurately.

The Automotive Advertising Agency’s Role

The Auto Ad Agency (TAAA) has always been at the forefront of innovation. Our early adoption of Google’s original feed system stands testament to our commitment to excellence. We have the experience to know every dealership is unique. TAAA offers tailored assistance, guiding dealerships in choosing between the structured data method and the feed system. Finally, our team ensures dealerships experience a smooth, efficient listing journey.

Embracing modern tools, especially those offered by tech giants like Google, is no longer optional but imperative for businesses to thrive. This new feature presents a golden opportunity for car dealerships to enhance online visibility, connect with potential customers, and drive sales.

Ready to revolutionize your online car listings? Reach out to The Automotive Advertising Agency today and let us guide you through Google’s new structured data feature, ensuring you reap all its benefits.

Marco Camacho, Principal, TAAA
About the author

Marco Camacho is the Founder and Principal of The Automotive Advertising Agency, with decades of experience in the automotive advertising industry. With a passion for cars and marketing, Marco has dedicated his career to helping auto dealerships achieve unparalleled success through strategic and innovative advertising campaigns. Leading a talented team of experts across offices in Austin, Los Angeles, and New York, Marco oversees operations and ensures the agency’s continued excellence. Marco’s journey began 35 years ago in car sales at Lone Star Volkswagen in San Antonio, Texas. Excelling in understanding customer needs and providing exceptional service, he expanded his expertise to prestigious brands like Ferrari and Lamborghini. However, driven by ambition and a desire for innovation, Marco transitioned into advertising and media, following in his father’s footsteps as a broadcasting pioneer. Starting as an advertising sales professional at a local radio station, he merged his passion for automobiles with his growing knowledge of marketing and media dynamics.