What should I do if product images are not updating correctly?

If your product images are not updating, check the following common causes:

1. Verify the source data and mapping. Make sure the affected products have image fields in the feed and that the Product Images field is mapped to the correct column or XML path. If the supplier file has no image field or no image value for a product, Stock Sync cannot add an image. Ask the supplier for a feed URL that includes images if necessary.
2. Test the image links. Confirm that each link is a direct, publicly accessible image URL that opens without authentication, firewall restrictions, or geo-blocking. Shopify cannot fetch images from product-page links, ZIP files, or inaccessible endpoints. URLs should include the full https: prefix.
3. Check feed settings. Review SKU, size, tag, and other filters, as well as any “skip if no image” condition. For an Update Feed, ensure the affected SKU is not excluded by a SKU filter.
4. Run a sample update. Test one affected SKU first. After correcting the mapping or source, run an image-only Update Feed or a test update, then check the product in the store. For large imports, allow processing time or retry in smaller batches.
5. Choose the image update behavior. In Step 2 → Product Images → Smart Settings, select “Skip existing images, import new images” to add missing images without replacing current ones. If duplicates need to be cleared, enable both “Replace Images” and “Skip Existing Images” for a clean re-import.
6. Use Smart Image Sync for standalone files. If images are individual files rather than URLs, use Smart Image Sync with Upload File, Google Drive, or Dropbox. Direct SFTP connections are not supported; download the files from SFTP first and upload them using one of the supported methods.

If the update process appears stuck, an Update Feed does not use credits and can be cancelled. A sample SKU must already exist in the store for an update to apply. Shopify may also process large image imports gradually, so check again after processing completes.

Updated on: 27/07/2026