The EU Consumer Rights Directive: 4 things sellers need to know

This coming Friday, June 13^th, the EU Consumer Rights Directive will come into full effect. Understanding what is required of you as online retailer or seller is important in order to comply with the new regulations.

We the directive and the reasons behind its conception, because of that we have decided to compile a comprehensive guide of what will be required from online sellers within the Euro Zone.

 

Order button:

One feature the directive is geared on changing is the order button. In exchange for the “Buy”, “Buy Now”, “Order”, and its variants, a new unified term will need to be present. The directive suggests that the final button should read “Order with Obligation to Pay”.  This is to provide the consumer with specific information before the order is submitted.

Etailers need be aware of the possibility of changing the final order button and the layout of their order pages to comply with the directive.

Cancelation rights:

The directive will elongate the “cool off” period to which a consumer can cancel an order without additional fees or charges from 7 to 14 days.

No more pre-ticked boxes:

In an effort to reduce accidental or unintended charges, retailers will no longer be allowed to assume the consumer’s decision to pay for additional products or services.

Boxes that are pre-ticked with additional charges, such as accessories, or extended warranties and services will not be allowed.

Refund policy:

Refunds will now be required to be made within 14 days of receiving the goods. This will also include the cost of standard delivery for the return.

The directive will not only benefit the consumers, as sellers will also receive a more favorable required policy. Sellers can now withhold refunds until the items have been physically returned or when the seller receives a notification of return.

 

While the directive may seem like an addition of regulations upon current legislation, the main idea is to make sure sellers and buyers are made aware of their rights when conducting business online.

 

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