News / Website aims to help on delivery charges
THE CAMPAIGN to end unfair delivery charges to the Highlands and Islands has taken another step with the set up of a dedicated website on delivery law.
The site – www.deliverylaw.uk – has been created by Highland Council and aims to help consumers, companies and practitioners concerned about delivery charges.
It has been established in response to growing dissatisfaction with discriminatory delivery charges imposed by online retailers.
In April, the Advertising Standards Agency banned companies from saying they provide free UK delivery if they charge for delivery to outlying areas. That followed a hearing on the issue at Westminster’s Scottish affairs committee.
The site explains that internet retailers “must not treat people differently because of where they live unless it can be justified by objective reasons” and that “surcharges based on geography must be based on real costs”.
But it warns that consumers may not have the basis for an individual claim and that the consumer cannot force the retailer to reduce the charges, they should instead report the issue to trading standards.
North Isles councillor Ryan Thomson, who has campaigned against delivery charges, said “I’m happy to see this website which specifically targets this problem area of delivery charges which obviously affects us all here in Shetland.
“It offers numerous services including assistance and guidance in making claims against unfair delivery charges and more detailed information on legal requirements for businesses towards customers.
“I’d certainly encourage anyone who has any concerns, particularly regarding any potential misleading delivery charges or any contract disputes to browse this website, which has a number of useful tips and advice.”
The consumer, the site says, still does not have any additional rights, but may consider the following:
- Abandon sale and go to another website, AND/OR
- Write to the retailer complaining about possible unlawful discrimination
- Report possible discrimination to Trading Standards
The site offers other advice about buying goods online and offers letter templates for people interested in making a complaint. It is funded by Trading Standards Scotland, on behalf of the UK Consumer Protection Partnership.
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