Right of Withdrawal for Distance Purchases for Amsterdam Residents
As a resident of Amsterdam, for distance purchases – such as online shopping via webshops, telephone orders, or remote purchases – you have a right to a 14-day withdrawal period. Within this period, you can cancel the purchase without giving a reason, starting from receipt of the product or the start of a service. This offers perfect protection for busy online shopping, for example for your home in the Jordaan or gadgets for city life.
Legal Basis for the Amsterdam Right of Withdrawal
The rules are set out in the Dutch Civil Code (DCC), Book 6, Title 5.5.2 (Articles 6:230j to 6:230u). This implements EU Directive 2011/83/EU. The key provision is Article 6:230m DCC, which provides a cooling-off period of at least 14 days. Sellers must provide clear information about this right before the purchase, including a model withdrawal form (Article 6:230n DCC). If the information is not provided correctly, the period extends to 12 months.
For services, the period starts on the date of the agreement, but if you explicitly consented to immediate performance, the right lapses (Article 6:230o DCC).
Right of Withdrawal Step by Step in Amsterdam
The 14 days start on delivery of the product (or the last item if multiple). For services, on conclusion of the agreement. No reason is needed – a notice is sufficient. Contact the Amsterdam Legal Aid Office for free advice if things go wrong.
- Check if the seller provided withdrawal information and the model form.
- Send a clear declaration of withdrawal within 14 days, ideally by email, post, or the standard form.
- Return the product within 14 days in good condition (Article 6:230q DCC).
- The seller must refund everything within 14 days, including standard shipping costs (Article 6:230r DCC).
Rights and Obligations for Online Purchases
Rights as an Amsterdam consumer:
- Cancel without giving a reason, free of charge.
- Full refund including VAT and standard delivery costs.
- No additional costs, except for your return shipping (unless the seller offers a free option).
Your obligations:
- Return the item in original packaging; traces of inspection are fine.
- Pay return shipping costs yourself, unless otherwise agreed.
Seller obligations:
- Provide information on withdrawal.
- Collect the return or provide a label for suitable products.
Right of Withdrawal: Online vs. In-Store in Amsterdam
| Aspect | Distance Purchase | Physical Store (e.g., Kalverstraat) |
|---|---|---|
| Cooling-off Period | 14 days | No statutory right |
| Reason Needed? | No | Often yes (store policy) |
| Return Costs | For you (standard) | Often free |
| Legal Basis | Art. 6:230m DCC | No specific right |
Exceptions to Withdrawal in Amsterdam
Some products and services are excluded (Article 6:230p DCC):
- Hygiene items: cosmetics, lingerie (seal broken).
- Custom-made: personalized T-shirts with Amsterdam print.
- Perishable: fresh herring or flowers from the Albert Cuyp.
- Urgent services: emergency bike repair for Amsterdam traffic.
- Digital: direct downloads where you agreed to forfeit the right.
- Travel: tickets for concerts at the Ziggo Dome.
Amsterdam Practical Examples
Example 1: You order a raincoat online (€60, €6 shipping) for Amsterdam showers. Not ideal after 12 days? Withdraw and return it. Seller refunds €60; you pay return shipping.
Example 2: Streaming service started immediately? Withdrawal right lapses if you agreed.
Example 3: No information on the right? Then 12 months + 14 days cooling-off period.
More on online shopping in Amsterdam.
Frequently Asked Questions on Withdrawal
Defective product? Withdraw?
No, that's warranty (Article 7:17 DCC): repair or replacement. Check with the Amsterdam Legal Aid Office.
Who pays return costs?
You, unless the seller provides a free label or wrong delivery.
No refund?
Demand in writing. Then contact ACM ConsuWijzer, Amsterdam District Court, or the Dispute Committee. Keep all records.
Marketplace in Amsterdam?
No for private sellers; only professionals. Check terms.
Tips for Amsterdam Residents
- Read terms and withdrawal information before buying.
- Use the model form from Rijksoverheid.nl.
- Take photos for returns.
- Keep proof and invoice for at least 1 year.
- In doubt? Call the Amsterdam Legal Aid Office or check the Amsterdam Municipality website.