Distance selling and online trading
Introduction
All businesses that supply goods or services must comply with a wide range of regulations on their quality and suitability.
But there are a number of extra rules if you sell at a distance or online. This includes selling by mail order including catalogues, phone, fax, internet and digital TV.
Understanding and complying with the distance selling regulations puts you on a firm footing when dealing with consumers, and can help you to avoid disputes.
This guide gives an overview of the rules on distance selling and online trading and tells you where you can find out more.
Subjects covered in this guide
- Introduction
- The basics of distance selling and online trading
- Provide consumers with clear information
- The cooling-off period and cancellations
- Additional rules if you sell or market electronically

Actions
- Download electronic commerce regulations advice from the Department for Business, Innovation & Skills website (PDF, 246K) - Opens in a new window
- Download Distance Selling Regulations guidance from the Office of Fair Trading website (PDF, 122K) - Opens in a new window
- Use our interactive tool to investigate what kind of website is best for your business
- Use our interactive regulation checklist to create a personalised list of regulations and licences that affect your business
- Use our licence and permit checklist to find out which licences and permits could apply to your business
- Manage your personal list of starting-up tasks with our Business start-up organiser
- View local and national events linked to this topic



