When you buy goods, the Consumer Rights Act 2015 sets out clear rules about delivery, who carries the risk, and how guarantees operate.

These rules apply alongside the core statutory rights. For the main legal standards goods must meet, see What Statutory Rights Apply to Goods?.

When Must Goods Be Delivered?

If you agree a specific delivery date, the trader must deliver on that date.

If no date is agreed, the goods must be delivered without undue delay and in any event within 30 days of the contract being made.

What If Delivery Is Late?

If the trader fails to deliver on time, you can:

  • Require delivery within an additional reasonable period, or
  • Treat the contract as ended if delivery within the agreed time was essential.

If you end the contract due to late delivery, you are entitled to a refund.

When Does Risk Pass to the Consumer?

Goods remain at the trader’s risk until they come into the physical possession of:

  • The consumer, or
  • A person identified by the consumer to take delivery.

If goods are damaged or lost in transit before they reach you, the trader is responsible.

What If You Arrange Your Own Courier?

If you arrange for your own independent courier (not one offered by the trader), risk may pass to you once the goods are handed to that courier.

This depends on the terms of the contract and the circumstances.

What Is a Guarantee?

A guarantee is a voluntary promise made by the trader or manufacturer, usually in addition to your statutory rights.

A guarantee cannot reduce or replace your legal rights under the Consumer Rights Act 2015.

Your statutory rights exist regardless of whether a guarantee is provided.

If Goods Are Damaged on Arrival

If goods arrive damaged, you may:

If the damage becomes apparent later, the Time Limits and the 6-Month Rule may apply.

Key Points

  • Goods must be delivered on time or within 30 days if no date is agreed.
  • The trader is responsible for goods until they are in your physical possession.
  • Guarantees are in addition to your statutory rights, not a replacement.