Fix Product Unavailable Error in Shopify Instagram Shopping

Are you struggling to connect your Shopify store to Instagram Shopping? Many e-commerce entrepreneurs face the frustrating “Product Unavailable on Your Website” error when trying to set up Instagram Shopping. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the most effective solutions to resolve this issue and get your Instagram Shopping up and running.

Understanding the Problem

What Causes the “Product Unavailable” Error?

The “Product Unavailable on Your Website” error typically occurs when Instagram cannot verify that the products in your catalog are available on the website connected to your account. This issue often stems from domain verification problems or mismatches between your Shopify store and Instagram settings.

Common Symptoms

Repeated rejections when applying for Instagram Shopping
Unable to tag products in Instagram posts
Catalog issues in Facebook Commerce Manager

The Root of the Issue: Third-Party Domains

Shopify vs. Non-Shopify Domains

One of the primary culprits behind this error is the use of third-party domains not managed by Shopify. Users with custom domains often face more challenges in getting approved for Instagram Shopping compared to those using Shopify-managed domains.

Domain Verification Discrepancies

In some cases, the domain may appear verified in your Business Manager, but Facebook’s systems may not recognize it as added or verified. This disconnect can lead to persistent approval issues.

The Most Effective Solution

After extensive testing and user reports, the following method has proven to be the most successful in resolving the “Product Unavailable” error:

Step-by-Step Guide

Change your primary domain in Shopify to your myshopify.com domain.
Verify this domain via HTML tag in your Facebook Business Manager.
Update your Facebook product catalog:
- Ensure all product links point to your myshopify.com domain.
- If necessary, delete and reinstall the Facebook app in Shopify to create a new catalog with correct links.
Contact Facebook Instagram Partner Support to unlink your Instagram account from your private domain.
Set up Instagram Shopping through the Instagram app, selecting the myshopify.com domain.
After approval, switch your primary domain back to your custom domain in Shopify.
Delete the Facebook app from Shopify to prevent link overwrites.

Using Flexify for Large Catalogs

For stores with extensive product catalogs, the Flexify app can be a helpful tool. It generates product links to the myshopify.com domain regardless of your primary domain setting, simplifying the process of maintaining correct links in your catalog.

Alternative Solutions

While the above method has been the most consistently successful, some users have reported success with other approaches:

HTTPS vs. HTTP

Ensure that your website URL in Instagram and your actual website both use HTTPS. Some users have resolved the issue by aligning these protocols.

Domain Verification in Business Manager

Double-check that both your custom domain and myshopify.com domain are verified in Facebook Business Manager. Adding both can sometimes resolve approval issues.

Mobile App Setup

When reapplying for Instagram Shopping approval, use the mobile Instagram app rather than desktop interfaces. Some users have reported higher success rates with this method.

Troubleshooting Tips

Disconnect Third-Party Apps

If you’re using Instagram scheduling or management apps like Later, try disconnecting them temporarily. These apps have been known to interfere with the approval process in some cases.

Persistence is Key

Don’t be discouraged by initial rejections. Many users have reported success after multiple attempts and slight variations in their approach.

Keep Your Catalog Updated

Ensure your product catalog is always up-to-date and accurately reflects the items available on your website. Discrepancies can lead to approval issues.

Navigating Support Channels

Facebook Support

Utilize the Facebook Commerce Manager’s support options to contact their team directly. While responses may vary, persistence can often lead to helpful insights or escalation of your case.

Shopify Support

While Shopify support may have limited ability to directly resolve Instagram integration issues, they can assist with domain and app-related questions that may indirectly affect your Instagram Shopping setup.

By following these steps and tips, you should be able to overcome the “Product Unavailable on Your Website” error and successfully set up Instagram Shopping for your Shopify store. Remember, the key is often in the details of domain management and catalog setup. With patience and careful implementation of these strategies, you’ll be on your way to leveraging Instagram’s powerful shopping features for your e-commerce business.