02.09.2026 08:50
The regulations limiting the right of withdrawal for phones, computers, tablets, smartwatches, and motorcycles in online shopping were annulled by a Council of State decision. While the right of withdrawal for consumers has been re-secured, the shipping cost for return transactions can no longer be charged to the consumer.
A significant change has occurred in the regulations concerning consumers' right of return in e-commerce. The restrictions on the right of withdrawal introduced for certain product groups in the Distance Contracts Regulation prepared by the Ministry of Trade were taken to the judiciary.
In line with the cancellation decisions made by the Council of State, the provisions that restricted the consumer's right of withdrawal in online shopping have lost their validity.
RIGHT OF WITHDRAWAL FOR PHONES AND COMPUTERS
Within the scope of the regulation, electronic products such as smartphones, computers, tablets, and smartwatches, as well as motorcycle purchases, came to the forefront.
The removal of the restrictions on the right of withdrawal for these products through the court decision was a significant development in terms of protecting the return right that consumers have in distance sales.
NO FEE MAY BE CHARGED FOR RETURN SHIPPING
Another important issue that directly concerns consumers was the shipping cost incurred during the return process.
Following the court decisions, the provision that envisaged charging the shipping cost for the return shipment to the consumer when exercising the right of withdrawal was also abandoned. Thus, the return shipping fee cannot be requested from a consumer who exercises their right of withdrawal in accordance with the legislation.
CLOSELY AFFECTS E-COMMERCE SHOPPING
The decision is particularly important for consumers who purchase products such as phones, tablets, computers, and similar items over the internet.
The debates regarding the restriction of consumers' statutory rights in distance sales through regulation provisions have also gained a new dimension with the Council of State's cancellation decisions.
HOW IS THE RIGHT OF WITHDRAWAL USED?
In distance sales, consumers can exercise their right of withdrawal within the specified period without being obliged to provide any justification, except for the exceptions stated in the law and relevant legislation. However, other exceptions in the legislation remain valid depending on the nature of the product and the terms of the purchase.