Right of Withdrawal for Distance Purchases in Rotterdam
In Rotterdam, as a consumer, you benefit from the right of withdrawal for distance purchases. This allows you to cancel the purchase without giving a reason within 14 days of receiving a product or the start of a service. Perfect for online orders from Rotterdam webshops, phone purchases, or other off-premises sales, such as via platforms popular in the port city.
Legal Basis for Rotterdam Residents
The right is governed by the Dutch Civil Code (DCC), Book 6, Title 5.5.2 (articles 6:230j to 6:230u DCC), implementing EU Directive 2011/83/EU. Article 6:230m DCC is key, providing a 14-day cooling-off period. Sellers must supply clear pre-contract information, including a model withdrawal form (art. 6:230n DCC). For services, the period begins with the contract but ends if fully performed with your consent (art. 6:230o DCC).
Right of Withdrawal Step by Step in Rotterdam
The period starts on delivery of the product (or the last item if multiple) or, for services, on the contract date. No reason is required—just notify the seller. For advice on your situation in Rotterdam, call the Juridisch Loket Rotterdam.
- Check the withdrawal information and model form provided by the seller.
- Send cancellation within 14 days, preferably by email, post, or the standard form.
- Return the product within 14 days in good condition (art. 6:230q DCC).
- Seller refunds everything within 14 days, including standard shipping costs (art. 6:230r DCC).
If the seller fails to provide proper information, the cooling-off period extends to 12 months plus 14 days.
Rights and Obligations in Practice
As a Rotterdam consumer:
- Cancel without costs or reason.
- Full refund including VAT and shipping.
- No extra costs, except your return shipping (unless seller offers free return).
Your obligations:
- Return in original packaging; minor inspection marks are fine.
- Pay return shipping costs unless otherwise agreed.
Seller must:
- Provide withdrawal information.
- For certain products, arrange collection or provide a label.
Right of Withdrawal: Online vs. Rotterdam Store
| Aspect | Online Purchase | Rotterdam Store |
|---|---|---|
| Cooling-off Period | 14 days | No statutory right |
| Reason Required? | No | Usually yes (store policy) |
| Return Costs | Normally paid by consumer | Often free |
| Law | Art. 6:230m DCC | No fixed right |
Exceptions for Rotterdam Shoppers
Certain products and services are excluded (art. 6:230p DCC):
- Hygiene items: opened lingerie, makeup, earplugs.
- Custom-made: personalised clothing or furniture.
- Perishable: fresh meat or flowers from Rotterdam markets.
- Urgent services: car repairs after breakdown on the A20.
- Digital: e-books or streams started immediately with consent.
- Travel: tickets for cruises from the port.
Rotterdam Examples
Example 1: You order a €60 jacket online (including €6 shipping) from a Rotterdam shop. Not a good fit after 12 days? Withdraw and return. Seller refunds €60; you pay €7 return shipping.
Example 2: Online course started immediately (with consent): no withdrawal.
Example 3: Webshop omits withdrawal info? Then 12 months + 14 days cooling-off.
More info in our article on online shopping.
FAQs for Rotterdam Residents
Withdrawal for defective product?
No, that's non-conformity (art. 7:17 DCC): repair or replacement under warranty. Consult Juridisch Loket Rotterdam.
Who pays return costs?
Normally you, unless seller provides free label or delivery was faulty. Check consumer advice from Gemeente Rotterdam.
Seller won't refund?
Send a reminder. No luck? Report to ACM ConsuWijzer, go to Rechtbank Rotterdam or Disputes Committee. Get help from Juridisch Loket Rotterdam. Keep all evidence.
Applies to Marktplaats auctions?
Only professional sellers. Not private; read terms.
Tips for Rotterdam Residents
- Check terms and withdrawal info before buying.
- Use the model form from Rijksoverheid.nl.
- Take photos on return to avoid disputes.
- Keep invoices and proof for at least a year.
- For personal advice: visit Juridisch Loket Rotterdam or check Gemeente Rotterdam website.