The problem of dropshipping

Online shopping: not everything is as it seems!

The slippers were ordered via a German website. They were to be sent back to China. (symbolic image)(Bild: Olga Yastremska, New Africa, Africa Studio)

Although she had ordered via a German website, a reader suddenly had to return a pair of slippers to China. The reason for this confusing returns process - including extra costs - is the sales method known as dropshipping. What to look out for and how you can help yourself.

"The shoes don't fit and are made of the cheapest material, plastic, contrary to the item description," described Monika R., who had ordered the product - slippers - via a website with a German ending (.de). Ms. R. contacted the company to arrange the return. However, the response upset the Lower Austrian woman.