Distantsmüük

Distantsmüük refers to the sale of goods or services to consumers where the seller and buyer are not physically present together at the time of the conclusion of the contract. This form of commerce is prevalent in modern retail, facilitated by various channels such as online stores, mail-order catalogs, and telephone sales. In many jurisdictions, including the European Union, consumers are afforded specific rights under "distance selling regulations" when purchasing through these methods.

These regulations typically include a right of withdrawal, allowing consumers to return goods or cancel services within a cooling-off period, usually 14 days, without needing to provide a reason. Sellers are also obligated to provide clear and comprehensive information about the product or service, the seller's identity and contact details, the total price including taxes, delivery costs, and the consumer's right of withdrawal before the contract is concluded.

Distantsmüük has grown significantly due to technological advancements and changing consumer habits, offering convenience and wider choice. However, it also presents challenges related to verifying product authenticity, managing returns, and ensuring secure transactions. The legal framework surrounding distantsmüük aims to balance the benefits of this sales method with the need to protect consumers from potential risks.