Q: I have just ordered a few personal accessories over the internet but have now found them cheaper from a local shop. Am I entitled to cancel my order? If I do so, are there any charges I would have to pay?

A: When we buy goods over the internet, which is a type of distance selling since the buyer and seller are not in the same place at the same time when the business transaction is made, as consumers we are entitled to a cooling-off period.

During this time, which in the case of goods purchased from an EU member country cannot be less than seven working days, and which in the case of Malta is 15 days, we have the right to cancel a sale without giving any reason and without incurring penalties.

The cooling-off period starts running from the date when the goods ordered are received.

So the answer to your question is yes, you can cancel your purchase as long as the cooling-off period has not expired. If you have already paid for the goods, then you should be fully reimbursed as soon as possible or within a maximum period of 30 days.

If the goods ordered have already been despatched and are eventually delivered to you, you may be required to send them back and pay transport costs.

Moreover, while in your possession, goods should be taken care of and packaged carefully prior to being sent back to the trader.