Check an overseas retailer before placing an order

Separate the seller from the dispatch location

Record the business’s stated address and the country from which this item will ship. A local-looking domain, translated page or price in pounds is not enough to establish either fact.

Check whether a marketplace or another business is the seller on the order. Keep the contact details and description of who handles delivery problems.

Build a delivered-cost estimate

Find out whether the checkout includes applicable import charges and who collects any remaining payment. GOV.UK explains the UK process for goods sent from abroad; check its current guidance before paying.

Keep an unresolved fee marked as unknown rather than treating it as zero. Include currency conversion, postage and any handling charge that the seller or carrier identifies. Compare the same product and condition.

Check the return journey

Find the actual return address, the process for reporting a fault and who pays return postage under the stated terms. A low outward shipping charge does not establish an inexpensive return route.

Ask how the seller handles a parcel that is refused, delayed or damaged. Keep answers in writing. If the return process is unclear, decide whether you could accept the practical cost and delay before buying.

Confirm product suitability

For electrical or other safety-sensitive goods, check manufacturer information for the intended UK use. The OPSS guidance explains why products sold from outside the UK can need particular care. A plug adapter alone does not establish suitability.

If important information remains missing, choose a better documented listing. Retain the order summary, delivery promise and terms, and use the official seller or platform help route if a problem develops.

Your next steps

• Confirm both seller location and dispatch country.
• Account for unresolved import and delivery charges.
• Check the return address and manufacturer suitability information.