If you live in the European Union, you have many advantages for shopping in any of the 27 countries that belong to the Union. A large number of people do not even know about them. Be sure to read this before shopping online! That’s how you will better understand your rights and avoid fraud.
No additional charges
One of the best things is that there are no additional fees when buying products from European stores online. What is more, there is no bank transfer fee to other countries when paying for goods. To purchase the product you want, you only pay for it and – if the seller provides – shipping costs. Therefore, if the store you buy from indicates additional fees, remember – that it is absolutely illegal. And this is a red flag not to choose this store.
Clear information about the product or service
The buyer has the right to receive detailed information about the product. No feature or defect in the product can be concealed. If it was legal, it would open the door to fraudulent manufacturing. Therefore, if you want to purchase a product and you lack information about it, you can contact the seller to provide it to you.
The same procedure applies to those who have been seduced by false advertising. In such cases, sellers are subject to appropriate liability, and buyers may return misadvertised items to the seller for a refund.
Right to return the purchase
If you have changed your mind about the product after purchasing it, you can return it. You can do this within 14 calendar days. This means that you do not have to explain to the seller the reasons why you have decided this way – you are free to do as you wish.
However, it is important that the product has not lost its marketable appearance. It must have the original packaging, the label cannot be removed. Otherwise, the seller of the product has the right not to accept it.
Shipping
Always pay attention to the shipping fee. Especially if you live in the USA. Sometimes it can be disproportionately large. In this case, for example, when buying goods from the United Kingdom or Germany, it is very worthwhile to use the Atvido services.
If you buy goods from other European Union countries, you can look for alternative stores where you can buy the desired product. This way you can save some money. But do not forget to take some time to make sure the store you’re about to buy from is trustworthy. Another way you can save money is to use codes and coupons. Visit Bountii for the list of brands with up to 75% discount.
2-year guarantee
People often do not know or forget about the 2-year guarantee when buying online in European stores. This means that after buying a product, you can return it within two years if it does not meet good quality standards. In other words, if the product wears out through no fault of yours in less than two years, you can return it to the seller and claim compensation. Usually, in this case, sellers refund the money or replace the product with a new one. That is how manufacturers are obliged to provide goods of suitable quality.
What to do if the seller does not follow the rules?
This is a question that arises for many buyers. Indeed, it happens that the seller of the product does not agree to return money for a defective product. He also refuses to replace it with a new one. What to do in this case? Each state has state consumer protection agencies that can help you. Their goal is to protect the rights of consumers, and the services provided are free of charge. Therefore, if you encounter a problem, do not hesitate to ask for help.
Conclusion
All in all, be careful when shopping online. If you notice that the store you buy from violates one or more of the points mentioned here, this signals a possible fraud. Therefore, it is better not to choose to use e-shop’s services. Also, you should report such a case to the authorities protecting consumer rights. This will ensure that other customers do not fall for the fraudsters. We hope that these tips will be useful to you and help you avoid unpleasant situations.
