Freibleibend

Freibleibend is a German term used in commerce to denote that a price quote, catalog entry, or offer is non-binding and subject to change. The designation signals that the information is provisional and does not create a contractual obligation for the seller. Prices, terms, or availability may be withdrawn or modified before a formal agreement is reached.

Usage and scope include price lists, catalogs, and offers. An offer marked freibleibend or with a freibleibende Preisangabe indicates that the seller does not commit to keep the quoted price indefinitely. Such quotes may be valid only up to a stated expiration date, or, if no date is given, may be withdrawn at any time. A customer may proceed with orders, but the seller is not bound to honor the quoted terms unless a binding agreement is subsequently formed through acceptance or formal confirmation.

Etymology and nuance: The term derives from frei (free) and bleibend (remaining), emphasizing the lack of binding obligation. It is commonly contrasted with verbindlich (binding) or with a binding offer, where the terms are fixed and enforceable.

Practical effects: For sellers, freibleibend offers provide flexibility to adjust prices or conditions. For buyers, it indicates that the quoted price is not guaranteed and may change; a contract typically forms only when the seller issues a binding confirmation or the buyer and seller reach a mutual agreement in writing.

See also: unverbindlich, Angebot, Vertragsrecht.