What delivery deadline must an online shop meet?
The announced lead time binds the seller. Without one, the law caps delivery at 30 days — and lateness gives the customer a right to cancel with an increased refund.
Short answer
- The seller delivers on the announced date; failing an indication, at the latest 30 days after the order (art. L216-1).
- If delivery is late, the customer serves notice to deliver within a reasonable additional period.
- If delivery still does not happen, they may cancel the contract by registered letter.
- The refund is due within 14 days of cancellation.
- After that, the amount is increased: 10% up to day 30, 20% up to day 60, 50% beyond.
The cost of a late refund
Refund increase after cancellation
| Refund delay | Increase | On a €200 order |
|---|---|---|
| Within 14 days | None | €200 |
| Day 15 to 30 | 10% | €220 |
| Day 31 to 60 | 20% | €240 |
| Beyond 60 days | 50% | €300 |
A real example
Example: a €200 order promised “within 5 working days” is still unshipped after three weeks. The customer serves notice, then cancels. If the refund arrives 40 days later, it is increased by 20%: €240 instead of €200. Announcing a cautious lead time costs less than a flattering one you miss.
Common mistakes
- Showing “fast shipping” with no date, which automatically falls back to the 30-day cap.
- Counting from dispatch when the period runs from the conclusion of the contract.
- Blaming the carrier: the seller is answerable to the consumer for delivery.
- Offering a credit note instead of a refund after cancellation.
How 4shopy helps
- Preparation and transit times are shown on the product page and in the checkout flow.
- Delivery methods — pickup point, home, click-and-collect — are configured with their prices and lead times.
- Order status separates preparation, dispatch and delivery, making lateness visible before a complaint.
- Out-of-stock products can show a specific lead time instead of the standard one.