Who is responsible if an online order arrives damaged?
Why the shop cannot send you to the delivery company.
Short answer
Your Europe answers that a seller cannot blame the carrier when goods arrive damaged. The seller is responsible for delivery and for damage that happens in transport, and must repair the item, replace it or give your money back. The same applies when a parcel never arrives: the seller must prove it was delivered, or send a new item or refund you.
Why
- Your Europe says the seller is responsible for damage during transport.
- Your Europe says the seller must prove delivery of a missing parcel.
- Taloustaito notes that the seller compensates the buyer for goods lost or damaged in transport.
Details
If you get no answer from a seller in another EU country, the European Consumer Centre in Finland can help.
Tip
Check the parcel in front of the courier if you can, and take photos of any damage straight away.
What may differ
These rules protect consumers buying from businesses. Private sales between individuals follow other rules.
Common misconception
You must claim from the delivery company yourself.
What actually happens
Your claim is against the seller. The seller deals with the carrier.
People also ask
- How long does an online shop have to deliver?
- How long is the legal guarantee in the EU?
- What is the right of withdrawal for online shopping?
Sources
- Your Europe: Delivery FAQChecked at:
- Taloustaito: Who pays if my parcel is lost?Checked at:
This answer is for reference only. Consumer rights depend on the purchase and the seller, so check the terms or ask the Consumer Advisory Services.
Practical: communication, money, servicesRelated questions
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What happens to letters with a wrong or incomplete address in Finland?
Traficom says that if a postal company cannot find the right address or return a letter to the sender, the letter is delivered to Traficom.
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How do you complain about mail delivery in Finland?
Traficom says you should first complain directly to the postal company.
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Who decides where your mailbox must be in Finland?
KKV says customers have a legal obligation to place their mailboxes in a location specified by Posti, the universal service company.
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Does official mail in Finland now come digitally?
The Legal Register Centre says the law on the primacy of digital official mail entered into force on 14 April 2026.

