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Delivery standards – why we need them
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Autumn 2008
EU says tougher online standards could boost cross-border business
All online retailers could in future be compelled to deliver within 30 days, be banned from applying hidden charges, and be banned from using pre-ticked boxes that limit consumers' rights. Moreover, consumers could demand their money back if the goods don't arrive within seven days. These are among wide-ranging reforms of direct sales legislation proposed by EU consumer affairs commissioner Meglena Kuneva under range of directives on consumer rights and direct selling. The proposals would also tighten current 14-day 'cooling off' rules, and harmonise rules across all direct sale channels, including mobiles and TV channels. The proposals are said to have been prompted in part by a desire to encourage more cross-border e-tailing. The EU report says only one in five people who shop online buy across borders, and that growth in the number of consumers in this market between 2005 and 2008 was from 6 to 7 per cent, whereas overall growth in consumer numbers shopping online was from 23 to 30 per cent. 
Those who do shop in other countries spend a remarkable 800 euros a year, the EU site adds. The proposals are listed with commentary on the EU web site; we have the long URL on www.FollowUpOnline.net.
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