Sometimes a gift just doesn’t please – and that’s completely okay. But what can you do with the unwanted gifts?
The Christ child also makes mistakes. And so this time again there were presents under the Christmas tree that the recipients didn’t like. If you don’t want to let your unwanted presents gather dust in the corner of your cupboard or throw them in the trash, you have many options. They are also more sustainable.
Exchange
If you dare to ask for the receipt, you can exchange the unwanted gift in the store. However, there is no legal right to exchange goods that are in perfect condition. The exchange depends on the goodwill of the dealer. However, if the goods are defective, customers are entitled to a replacement.
However, the right of withdrawal generally applies to products ordered online. The goods can be returned within two weeks; the deadline usually applies from receipt of the goods. The revocation must be declared in advance, for example in writing or by telephone.
CDs, DVDs and software must still be sealed when exchanged. The right of withdrawal is excluded for custom-made items such as engraved jewelry or photo albums and for concert tickets with a fixed date – as is the case for products with special hygienic protection, such as cosmetic products, erotic toys, contact lenses or toothbrushes. According to the Brandenburg Consumer Center, the right of withdrawal applies to underwear and swimwear.
Sell
The easiest way to get rid of unwanted gifts is through online auctions. The gift can also be passed on on classified ad marketplaces. Anyone who sells on the Internet should definitely register as a private seller. Then no right of withdrawal or return has to be granted. The statutory warranty can also be excluded with a note. The sentence “The goods are sold with the exclusion of any warranty” provides clarity.
The information about the items offered on the Internet must be correct. In addition, photos and product descriptions may not simply be copied from the manufacturer’s website for copyright reasons. That’s why it’s better to take your own photos and write your own texts.
To exchange
There are also exchange platforms on the Internet – exchanges there work like in real life: goods for goods. The so-called scrap gnome is also popular with many people – what is no longer needed is packed up and exchanged for another present in a larger group.
give away
If you don’t like your gift, you can simply give it away at the next opportunity. Maybe the present will trigger real joy. Of course, this can also be done online – many portals offer the option to hand in the goods free of charge.
Donate
If you want to do something good with your unwanted Christmas present, you can donate the goods. Organizations like Oxfam resell the items and help people in need. For example, you take clothes, books or games; It is important that the goods are not damaged or dirty. The proceeds from sales flow into social or development projects.
Faulty gifts
Defective or damaged gifts can be claimed within two years of purchase upon presentation of the receipt. For used goods, the statutory warranty obligation may be shorter.
Travel literature to give as a gift
Special travel books for the gift table
The consumer advice centers offer a free exchange check online: Consumers receive an initial legal assessment that answers whether they are entitled to a free repair or a replacement product from the seller or manufacturer or whether they can return the product and demand their money back. The page can be found using the search term “Consumer Center Exchange Check”.
Source: Stern
I am an author and journalist who has worked in the entertainment industry for over a decade. I currently work as a news editor at a major news website, and my focus is on covering the latest trends in entertainment. I also write occasional pieces for other outlets, and have authored two books about the entertainment industry.
