How long can I send something back?

In short

If you buy something online, you get a 14-day cooling-off period. It starts the day your parcel arrives. After that you have another 14 days to send it back.

How it works

Buying online is different from buying in a shop. You haven’t seen the product yet, so you get a 14-day cooling-off period. The clock starts when your parcel arrives.

Not everything can go back. Something made especially for you, food, or make-up with a broken seal is excluded.

Sounds simple, right?

It is. Until you have three parcels from three web shops, with three delivery dates. Who still has an overview then?

Oeps, this is where it goes wrong

The parcel is still sitting in the hallway. You think: I'll do it this weekend. And suddenly it's day 16. Every web shop counts differently, and nobody keeps track of it for you.

Often asked

Do I get a cooling-off period in a physical shop too?

No. In a regular shop there is no cooling-off period. If you're still allowed to exchange something, that's an extra the shop offers itself.

Do I have to say why I'm sending it back?

No. You don't have to give a reason.

Written by Joël from OEPS! · Updated on 22 October 2026

Checked with: ACM ConsuWijzer — Cooling-off period (Dutch)

This is a general explanation of Dutch consumer rules, not legal advice. In doubt? Check ACM ConsuWijzer or ask the Juridisch Loket (Legal Services Counter).

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