Right of Withdrawal for Distance Contracts in Tilburg
In Tilburg and surrounding areas, the right of withdrawal for distance contracts allows consumers to cancel a purchase without giving a reason within 14 days after delivery of a product or the start of a service. This applies to online orders, phone purchases, or other transactions outside Tilburg stores, such as local webshops in the region.
Legal Basis for Tilburg Buyers
This right is governed by the Dutch Civil Code (DCC), Book 6, Title 5.5.2 (articles 6:230j to 6:230u DCC), based on EU Directive 2011/83/EU. Article 6:230m DCC is key, providing a cooling-off period of 14 days. Webshops must provide clear information upfront, including a model withdrawal form (art. 6:230n DCC). For services, the period starts on the date of the agreement but lapses if the service is fully provided with your consent (art. 6:230o DCC).
Right of Withdrawal Step by Step in Practice
The period begins upon receipt of the product (or the last delivery for multiple items) or, for services, on the contract date. A simple notification is sufficient; no explanation is required.
- Check if the seller included withdrawal information and the model form.
- Send a withdrawal notice within 14 days by email, post, or form.
- Return the product within 14 days in good condition (art. 6:230q DCC).
- The seller must refund everything within 14 days, including standard shipping costs (art. 6:230r DCC).
Without proper information from the seller, the cooling-off period extends to 12 months + 14 days.
Rights and Obligations for Consumers and Sellers
Rights as a Tilburg consumer:
- Cancel without giving a reason, free of charge.
- Full refund including VAT and standard shipping costs.
- No additional costs, except for your return shipping (unless the seller offers a free option).
Your obligations:
- Return the item in its original packaging; traces of inspection are acceptable.
- Pay return shipping costs yourself, unless otherwise agreed.
Seller's obligations:
- Provide information on withdrawal rights.
- For certain products, arrange pickup or provide a label.
Right of Withdrawal: Online vs. Tilburg Physical Stores
| Aspect | Distance Contract | Physical Store in Tilburg |
|---|---|---|
| Cooling-off Period | 14 days | No statutory right |
| Reason Required? | No | Usually yes (per store policy) |
| Return Shipping Costs | Your responsibility (standard) | Often free via seller |
| Legal Basis | Art. 6:230m DCC | No fixed right |
Exceptions for Tilburg Shoppers
Certain products and services are excluded under article 6:230p DCC:
- Hygiene items: lingerie, makeup, earplugs after opening.
- Custom-made: personalized clothing or furniture.
- Perishable: fresh meat, flowers from local markets.
- Urgent services: car repairs in Tilburg.
- Digital: e-books or streams started immediately with consent.
- Travel/tickets: vacations, concerts (unless otherwise specified).
Examples from Tilburg Practice
Example 1: You order a jacket for €60 (including €6 shipping) from a Tilburg webshop online. Not fitting after 12 days? Withdraw and return it. Seller refunds €60; you pay €7 return shipping.
Example 2: You start an online course immediately (with consent): no withdrawal right.
Example 3: No withdrawal information provided? Then 12 months + 14 days cooling-off period.
More info in our article on online shopping in Tilburg.
Frequently Asked Questions for Tilburg
Can I withdraw for a defective product?
No, that falls under non-conformity (art. 7:17 DCC): repair or replacement via warranty.
Who pays return shipping from Tilburg?
You do, unless the seller offers a free label or delivery was incorrect. Check the seller's policy.
Seller won't refund?
Send a formal demand in writing. No success? Contact Juridisch Loket Tilburg, ACM ConsuWijzer, Disputes Committee, or the Zeeland-West-Brabant District Court in Breda. Keep all evidence.
Does it apply to Marktplaats in Tilburg?
Only professional sellers; not private sellers – read the terms.
Tips for Tilburg Consumers
- Check terms and withdrawal information before purchasing.
- Download the model form from Rijksoverheid.nl.
- Take photos when returning for proof.
- Keep shipping receipts and invoices for at least 1 year.
- For free advice: call Juridisch Loket Tilburg or visit the Municipality of Tilburg consumer page.