However, dropshipping and the many problems that customers can experience by doing business with these types of entrepreneurs are not new phenomena.
In general, returning products is not a climate-friendly solution. We can only applaud companies that discourage customers from returning products. However, this statement is not always true, as is evident from many responses to us previously published article. A revelation about the business practices of RÊVEUR AMSTERDAM, a dropshipping company, reveals serious shortcomings that threaten the rights of consumers.
This company has previously been criticized for its poor product quality, as evidenced by several negative reviews reviews online, appears to show little respect for consumers' legal rights when it comes to returns. We put it to the test to reveal the dropshipper's questionable dealings. We purchased a product and requested the returns form, which we did not receive, and were surprised to read the response. Naturally, we requested a return after we determined that the quality was substandard.
return address
An online store is legal not required is to provide a Dutch return address. Instead, they may choose to appoint an 'authorized representative', such as the supplier, to handle returns. This approach is beneficial for the online store, as it means they do not have to manage inventory or returned products. However, it is crucial that the seller clearly states this information when making the sale.
Moreover, it is essential that the seller clearly indicates in advance what the costs are for returning the order. These costs can be significant. It is on this point that the aforementioned webshop falls short. By not being transparent about these aspects, they fail to provide essential information to the consumer, which can lead to unexpected and sometimes exorbitant costs for the customer who decides to return a product.
doubtful
Although European law gives consumers the right to cancel their online, telephone or doorstep purchases within 14 days of purchase, RÊVEUR AMSTERDAM takes a questionable stance in their returns policy. The company, which claims it “prefers no returns given the CO2 emissions released during the transportation process,” appears to be using this environmentally conscious argument as a means to discourage customers from exercising their right to return.
In an ideal world, dropshippers would always offer a Dutch returns address and would try to handle customer complaints adequately at all times. And although there are dropshippers who try to adhere to the rules, there are unfortunately also a large number who do not.
In a statement, the company said: “Please note that we do not offer a free returns service as stated in our returns policy. In addition, returning is also at your own risk, which means that we as a company are not responsible if something happens to the package.” These terms place a disproportionate burden on the consumer, who, in addition to paying return costs, also bears the risk of loss or damage during shipping. Furthermore, by not providing a return address and stating that “the cost of a return depends on weight and the post office and can range from $20 to $35,” the seller makes the process even more unappealing. Many dropshippers also know this, and for some it is even part of the revenue model.
The webshop must clearly indicate in advance that any returns must be sent abroad. Hiding this somewhere in the general terms and conditions or in a returns form is not enough.
Furthermore, the company warns: “There is a good chance that your package will be held by customs and you will have to pay additional fees before your package can reach our warehouse in China. We are not responsible for these charges and cannot be held liable if your package is lost or stuck in customs.” This approach, which deters consumers from exercising their rights, is not only unethical but also places unreasonable barriers for consumers.
compensation
RÊVEUR AMSTERDAM, which was registered last year in Bussum by KZ Commerce at an address where several virtual offices are located, offers as an alternative to “refund 10% of the total purchase value of your order to your previously chosen payment method,” which is hardly seems like a reasonable compensation for the potential downsides of buying from them.
These practices emphasize the importance for consumers to be cautious when purchasing products from online dropshippers. With hidden costs, significant risks involved returns and a lack of responsibility from the seller, it is advisable to avoid such companies and instead opt for reputable retailers, both online and in physical stores. This not only provides greater certainty for consumers, but also supports a more sustainable and ethical way of shopping.
deception
Have you made a purchase based on misleading information? Report it ACM ConsuWijzer! Even if you have doubts about whether you have been scammed or misled. If several consumers report this, the Consumer & Markets Authority may decide to investigate the seller, impose a fine or force the seller to provide an appropriate solution.
