Overview
- There is no statutory right to return non‑defective in‑store purchases, so exchanges rely on each shop’s policy or goodwill, and proof of purchase is typically required.
- For online or other distance purchases, buyers can withdraw within 14 calendar days from delivery under §355 BGB, must declare the withdrawal to the seller, and often pay return shipping.
- Many retailers offer seasonal extensions—such as Amazon accepting most late‑November and December orders through late January—which are voluntary but binding once advertised.
- Defective items fall under statutory warranty with repair, replacement, price reduction or refund possible, and the seller bears the proof burden for defects reported within twelve months.
- No withdrawal applies to most private sales or to perishables, opened hygiene goods, bespoke items and dated tickets, and consumers can use the Verbraucherzentrale’s online Umtausch‑Check for case‑specific guidance.