Exchange in the store: is there a right to it?

You bought something in a store and want to exchange it because it does not fit or you no longer like it? Many people believe they have a right to exchange, but for defect-free goods that is not the case. It is different for defects and for online purchases.

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Your chances of getting your money back

For flawless goods that you simply no longer like, there is NO statutory right of exchange or return in a brick-and-mortar store. If the retailer takes the goods back, that is pure goodwill.

It is different with a defect: if the goods are faulty, you have the statutory warranty (cure, price reduction, rescission, § 437 BGB). And for online purchases, the 14-day right of withdrawal applies, which is something entirely different from 'exchange in the store'.

What you should do now

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1. Clarify the reason
Is it about a defect, or just that you do not like the goods? Your rights depend on that.
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2. If defective: warranty
If the goods are faulty, demand cure (repair or replacement). That is your statutory right.
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3. Without a defect: ask for goodwill
For a pure 'do not like it' return, you can only hope for goodwill. Many retailers grant it voluntarily (often against the receipt, possibly as a voucher).
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4. Different online
For online purchases, the 14-day right of withdrawal applies. There you can return without giving a reason.

Frequently asked questions

Do I have a right to exchange in the store?

For defect-free goods that you simply no longer like, no. In brick-and-mortar retail there is no statutory right of exchange or return. If the retailer takes the goods back, it is a goodwill gesture, often only with the receipt and sometimes only as a voucher.

And if the goods are broken?

Then the statutory warranty applies (§ 437 BGB): you can demand cure and, if that fails, reduce the price or rescind. This is independent of goodwill. For online purchases you additionally have the 14-day right of withdrawal without giving a reason.

Take action now

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General information for self-help, not legal advice (RDG). In case of a high loss or uncertainty: contact a consumer advice center or a lawyer.