Whether you've ordered online from a foreign seller or a loved one is sending you a gift from abroad, a few precautions are worth taking.

If an offer seems too good to be true, be wary. Before making any online purchase, check the seller's identity and make sure the website is trustworthy.

Use the WebshopCheck from ECC Belgium and shop online safely.

You can also check the reputation of an online shop using these tips from the FPS Economy.

Bear in mind that:

• The seller is responsible for the packaging, labelling and documents accompanying the parcel;
• It's also generally the seller who chooses the sending method, and therefore the level of traceability and compensation available in the event of a problem;
• In the event of a dispute, it's up to the seller to offer you compensation in the first instance, as you entered into a contract with them, not with the postal operator;
• Some payment methods (PayPal, credit card, Klarna) allow you to cancel a purchase within a certain timeframe.

Your rights as an online consumer.

Before signing for or accepting your parcel, check the condition of the packaging in the presence of the delivery driver. If you notice any damage, even after opening it, report it to the postal operator straightaway and take photos. Ideally, to protect yourself, refuse the delivery directly with the carrier and inform the seller of the damage immediately.

Remember to also keep your letterbox in good order, making sure it meets the applicable standards (it must be visible from the public highway, display your name and box number where applicable, and be large enough to hold a C4 envelope).