Your Life

Internet Shopping

These days it's sometimes easier and cheaper to buy things on the internet or mail order. It could be that the goods you want are only available by using this option.

Buying goods by post, phone or on the internet is known as distance selling and is covered by the Consumer Protection (Distance Selling Regulations) 2000.

Beware! There are many companies to choose from and some are even fake so it’s good to be careful and be aware of your rights when using the internet.

If you follow these tips it could help save you from being caught out.

  • As with high street shopping, shop around for the best deal and price, under new regulations you are entitled to a 7 day cooling off period.
  • Check out the terms and conditions on the site and make sure there is a postal address for the trader as you may need to contact them again if things go wrong.
  • Always check that the company has a secure site before giving any personal or banking details about yourself.
  • Watch out for hidden charges! The price for the item may look good but some sites have hidden delivery charges, VAT, and duty costs, particularly if they are outside the UK!
  • Remember! Goods bought from other countries are not covered by UK law. This could mean waiting longer for delivery or facing problems trying to return the good should they be unsatisfactory or faulty.
  • Print out the order, the company address, the terms and conditions of the purchase and if possible the page displaying the items you are buying. This could help if you have problems further along.
  • If possible try to use traders recommended by a friend or that you have heard of before.
  • Check to see how traders protect your privacy when processing your details i.e. they don’t share your personal information with other companies you do not want to hear from.
  • Check the agreed delivery date, if the goods are not delivered within the agreed time you have rights to cancel and claim full refund.

Any specially made to order goods, e.g. personalised jewellery, may not be covered for a refund, check the terms and conditions.


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