Forbrugerbelastning

Forbrugerbelastning describes the total burden on consumers from obtaining, using and disposing of goods and services. It includes monetary costs such as price, taxes and fees, and non-monetary costs such as time, effort, cognitive load and risk of error. It can stem from complex information, lengthy forms, opaque pricing, mandatory registrations, and extensive after-sales processes.

In policy analysis, forbrugerbelastning is used to assess the net effect of rules on consumers. Measurements combine money spent, time spent, the number of steps in a purchase or service process, usability problems, and rates of returns or complaints. Methods include surveys, time-use diaries, usability studies and expert evaluation.

Common contexts include energy labeling, consumer rights and privacy notices, online onboarding, warranty terms, and packaging requirements. In each case, policymakers seek to reduce unnecessary burden without compromising safety, clarity or protection.

Debates emphasize the trade-off between information and protection versus friction; critics warn that reducing burden can erode safeguards, while businesses point to high compliance costs. The concept is part of Danish and European discussions on consumer policy and regulatory design.