Better guarantee for border-free shopping

Shoppers will from now on benefit from greater protection for their cross-border purchases thanks to the new European guarantee legislation. The rights to compensation are being aligned across all of Europe. Member of European Parliament Anneleen Van Bossuyt was heavily involved in the new guarantee legislation: “In this way we will avoid a great many discussions when it comes to claims.”

Fair for consumer and merchant alike

In case of damage, the consumer is no longer required to prove that the defect already existed when the purchase took place. The consumer then has the choice between repairing or replacing the item. If that proves impossible, he or she can opt for a discount or the cancellation of the contract. “This guarantee system is fair for the consumer and merchant alike,” says Anneleen Van Bossuyt.

Transparent guarantee period

The guarantee periods for new consumer goods are not being aligned across all of Europe. “That’s a missed opportunity,” according to Anneleen Van Bossuyt. “There should be a clear understanding of the guarantee period for Flemings who wish to purchase clothing on a website in a different EU country: two years, for all locations. The consumer has a need for transparency,” she concludes. Separate legislation is in the pipeline for second-hand goods.