Google Tag Manager (GTM) is one of the most powerful tools for tracking and managing your website’s data. Whether you want to set up Google Analytics, track WooCommerce sales, or monitor form submissions, GTM makes it possible without heavy coding.
But here’s the problem: most WordPress users make simple mistakes that break their GTM setup. These errors not only waste time but also give you inaccurate reports. The good news? You can easily fix them.
In this guide, we’ll cover the 5 common GTM mistakes in WordPress and show you how to avoid them so your tracking stays smooth and accurate.
1. Adding GTM Code Incorrectly
One of the most common mistakes is pasting the GTM code in the wrong place. Many WordPress users put the code only in the header, or forget the second snippet for the <body> section. This breaks your GTM setup.
How to Avoid It:
- Always place both the <head> and <body> GTM snippets where Google recommends.
- If you don’t want to touch theme files, use a plugin like TagSyncer. It ensures your GTM code is added correctly in WordPress without manual editing.
Explore: Google Tag Manager vs WordPress Analytics Plugins: What You Should Use
Correct placement of GTM code snippets as recommended by Google.
Easily add your GTM ID in WordPress with TagSyncer.
Read More: How to Add Google Tag Manager to WordPress (Step-by-Step with Screenshots)
2. Not Testing GTM Tags
You might set up GTM tags but never test if they’re firing correctly. This leads to missing data or duplicate tracking.
How to Avoid It:
- Use Preview Mode in GTM to check if tags are firing.
- Verify with Google Tag Assistant or your browser’s developer tools.
- With TagSyncer, you can manage multiple GTM containers and keep your setup organized.
Google Tag Assistant confirms your tags are working in WordPress.
3. Forgetting About Mobile Tracking
Many WordPress site owners test GTM only on desktop. But mobile visitors often behave differently, and tags may not work as expected.
How to Avoid It:
- Always test GTM on both desktop and mobile devices.
- Check scroll depth, button clicks, and WooCommerce events on mobile.
- TagSyncer helps by supporting mobile-friendly tracking features like form submissions and scroll events.
4. Ignoring WooCommerce Events
If you’re running a WooCommerce store, tracking events like Add to Cart, Checkout, and Purchases is critical. But many site owners either skip this setup or do it incorrectly.
Read: WooCommerce Event Tracking with Google Tag Manager (Free Plugin)
How to Avoid It:
- Enable Enhanced Ecommerce in Google Analytics and set up WooCommerce events in GTM.
- TagSyncer makes this easier by sending WooCommerce events to the dataLayer automatically saving you from manual coding.
5. Not Using DataLayer Properly
The dataLayer is at the heart of GTM. Without it, you can’t push advanced events like user interactions, form submissions, or custom values. Many WordPress users ignore it completely.
How to Avoid It:
- Learn the basics of dataLayer and use it for advanced tracking.
- With TagSyncer, the dataLayer is pre-configured for common actions like forms and WooCommerce so you don’t need to write custom scripts.
Also Read About: Why Google Tag Manager Scripts Break on WordPress and How to Prevent It
TagSyncer automatically pushes common actions into the dataLayer.
Example of capturing dataLayer variables in GTM.
Final Thoughts
Google Tag Manager is a must-have for WordPress sites, but small mistakes can ruin your tracking setup. By avoiding these 5 common GTM mistakes in WordPress, incorrect code placement, untested tags, ignoring mobile, missing WooCommerce events, and skipping dataLayer you’ll have cleaner, more reliable data.
If you want a simple, error-free way to add and manage GTM in WordPress, try TagSyncer. It handles GTM integration, WooCommerce tracking, scroll depth, and more without needing code edits.
Download TagSyncer today and keep your GTM setup smooth and accurate.
TagSyncer is the easiest way to avoid GTM mistakes in WordPress.