Did you know that when you buy something online, you’re actually entering into a contract? It’s important to have access to certain info with online purchases so you know what to expect. We’re going to tell you what info you should keep an eye out for before you click “confirm purchase”.
My online purchase is a contract?
Yes, it is! These kinds of contracts are called distance sales contracts. With these contracts, you don’t enter into the contract in person and you don’t have the opportunity to inspect the goods before purchasing. We regulate certain aspects of distance sales contracts in BC, including what’s required to be in the contract.
What should I be seeing before I click “confirm purchase”?
Before you confirm, the business must provide some details about the purchase for you. You should have the chance to review the details and correct any mistakes you may have made. At the checkout, you should see:
- A detailed description of the goods or services
- The currency
- The delivery details, including the shipping method and place of delivery
- The cancellation, return, exchange and refund policies, if any
Once your order is confirmed, the business should send you a copy of your contract (this can be a receipt) within 15 days. The contract must also include all the details about the order.
What happens if my order never arrives?
Finding yourself checking your front door, impatiently awaiting your package? Fear not! We have step-by-step information to help you get your refund.
Did you like this? You might like these posts too!
Online shopping: tips to receive your refund when your package never arrives
Our top 5 tips for online shopping
Buying flowers online? Read these tips first.
About Consumer Protection BC
We are responsible for regulating specific industries and certain consumer transactions in British Columbia. If your concern is captured under the laws we enforce, we will use the tools at our disposal to assist you. If we can’t help you directly, we will be happy to provide you with as much information as possible. Depending on your concern, another organization may be the ones to speak to; other times, court or legal assistance may be the best option. Explore our website at www.consumerprotectionbc.ca.
I think all online businesses should have a phone number for customer service also if they are legit.
I agree! I was being double charged x4 months by Spotify. They have no phone Customer Service phone contact . I sent numerous emails before finally getting through to an online agent who was able to resolve things and issue a refund. Very frustrating!
This is also the reason I insist on PAPER credit card monthly statements. The charges were occurring at different times of every month and I doubt j would have noticed the extra $9.99/month just glimpsing at my statement online. The Spotify agent required the purchase code# for the charges which was much easier to refer to with a paper statement .
It would also be helpful to include something about customs and excise charges when ordering from the United States.
Hi John, thanks for the suggestion!
What about declining a purchase by text and it still goes through to be charged to me?
And trying to dispute it with PayPal but without having a confirmation no. from the company (Booking.com) ?They still charged for the fraudulent purchase and closed the claim?!
How can this be fixed?
Hi Mark, thanks for posting a comment here. It’s hard to determine your situation without all of the details but you may want to try to resolve the issue with Booking.com directly. Contact them by phone or email and see if you are able to talk to a supervisor/manager and explain what happened. If you think they have intentionally committed fraud, you can also contact your local police. Having said that sounds like it was a misunderstanding/miscommunication so hopefully you will be able to solve the issue with them directly.