Starting September 27, 2026, online retailers are required to display a European standardized notice regarding the legal guarantee of conformity. Learn what this measure means and how to implement it.
What is this European initiative?
The measure is part of the European framework for better informing consumers and protecting them against unfair commercial practices, also known as the "Empowering Consumers for the Green Transition" directive, introduced by Directive (EU) 2024/825. The European Union has established a common model with standardized text and graphics for warranty information, aiming to make it easier for people to recognize and understand their rights when purchasing products, regardless of the online or physical store (B2C) they buy from.
In Romania, this obligation is outlined in GEO no. 34/2014, as amended by GEO no. 18/2026. The appearance and content of the notice are established by Implementing Regulation (EU) 2025/1960.
The application date for this obligation is September 27, 2026.
Difference between legal guarantee and commercial guarantee (The GARAN Label)
To implement this correctly for any product category (electronics, clothing, furniture, household items, etc.), it's essential to understand the terms:
- Legal guarantee of conformity: Represents the seller's liability for delivered products that do not meet legal requirements or promised characteristics at the time of delivery. These rights (typically valid for 2 years in the EU) already exist; the new requirement only concerns the mandatory and standardized way we communicate them via the Harmonised Notice.
- Commercial guarantee of durability: An additional commitment offered voluntarily by the manufacturer. To highlight this extra guarantee, the GARAN Label was created, which is optional. It is only used if the commercial guarantee is provided for free, covers the entire product, and lasts for more than two years. In all other cases, the GARAN label is not required.
How does this apply to different product types?
The general information rule applies to all goods sold to consumers, but conformity assessment will always consider the nature of the product and the durability a customer can reasonably expect.
- Electronics / Appliances: The legal guarantee covers manufacturing defects present at delivery (even if they manifest later). If the manufacturer offers a 5-year free guarantee, the GARAN label will also be displayed.
- Perishable products (e.g., cosmetics, supplements, food): The notice must be displayed, but the "2-year guarantee" does not extend the Best Before Date (BBD) on the packaging. The guarantee covers non-conformities from the time of delivery (e.g., broken container, spoiled product).
- Fashion and clothing: The guarantee applies to hidden defects (e.g., weak manufacturing seams) but does not cover normal wear and tear from use over time.
Implementation rules for online stores
The legal requirement is that the information must be visible and available before the user commits to buying. Recommended steps for technical implementation include:
1. Using the official material
You must download the official notice in your language (color version for digital use — RGB). The material must be used in its entirety, maintaining the original text, colors, proportions, and QR code. Adding custom logos or rewriting the text is not allowed.
2. Placement and access on the website
The European Commission guidelines recommend making the information highly accessible. Best practices for e-commerce include:
- A visible link in the website header or product catalog.
- On the checkout page, clearly placed before the "Place Order" button.
- In the footer and Terms and Conditions page, as supplementary access.
Upon the first click or tap, the user must be able to see the full notice. Additionally, a direct link to the QR code address (https://europa.eu/youreurope/garan%C8%9Bii) should be placed next to the notice for easy mobile access.
3. Order confirmation
It is recommended to include the notice (e.g., as an attached PDF file) in the automated order confirmation email so the customer can keep it.
Updating store policies
By September 27, 2026, retailers should update their Terms and Conditions to clearly reflect:
- Consumer rights in case of a non-conforming product.
- The fact that durability evaluation depends on the nature of each product.
- The procedure and channel for submitting a complaint.
Correct and timely implementation of this notice not only ensures legal compliance but also boosts customer trust in your online store's transparency and professionalism.