Returning goods in Georgia

Returning goods in Georgia: this guide explains the applicable rights, rules, documents and procedures using official sources.

Georgia does not give an automatic right to return every purchase merely because the buyer changed their mind. The answer depends on whether the contract was concluded online/off-premises or in a physical shop, and whether the item is defective.

Online purchases: 14 days

For a distance or off-premises contract, the consumer may generally withdraw without giving a reason within 14 calendar days after taking physical possession. Notice must be sent before the deadline; unless the trader collects it, the goods must be returned within seven calendar days after notice.

Full reimbursement

Within 14 calendar days after being informed, the trader must reimburse all payments, including standard delivery, through the original payment method unless another cost-free method is agreed. Reimbursement may be withheld until the goods or proof of dispatch is received. Extra premium-delivery cost is excluded, and direct return cost may fall on the consumer if properly disclosed.

Exceptions

The withdrawal right does not cover, among other cases, personalised or rapidly perishable goods, unsealed hygiene goods, unsealed software/recordings, certain digital content, public auctions and specified date-bound services.

Defective goods

Free repair or replacement is the priority remedy. If impossible, disproportionate, not completed within a reasonable time or materially inconvenient, the consumer may seek a price reduction or terminate the contract for a refund. A trivial defect does not justify termination. For a defect found in the first six months, the trader generally bears the burden of disproving that it existed at delivery; statutory remedies generally cover defects discovered within two years.

In-store, non-defective goods

The 14-day no-reason rule does not automatically apply to an ordinary physical-shop purchase. A trader must, however, honour its advertised voluntary return policy.

Complaint

Send a written demand with proof of purchase, payment, defect and correspondence. If unresolved, apply to GCCA within two years of the violation. Court remains available for an individual refund or damages claim.