Online store terms and conditions in German. Expansion into the German market.

Dynamic development of e-commerce in Polish-German relations  

In recent years (2019–2025), we have observed a significant increase in the expansion of Polish online stores into the German market. Germany is the largest e-commerce market in Europe – Its value is expected to exceed € 92 billion in 2025. Geographical proximity, the common EU zone, and developed logistics infrastructure make it a natural development direction for many Polish entrepreneurs.  

Why does an online store need documentation adapted to German law?  

The German market is extremely competitive, but also rigorous in terms of consumer law. Even minor formal violations—such as a lack of information about the right of withdrawal ( Widerrufsrecht ) or an incomplete privacy policy ( Datenschutzerklärung )—can result in serious sanctions, including costly warnings ( Abmahnungen ) from competitors or consumer associations.  

Mandatory documents are:  

  • sales regulations ( AGB – Allgemeine Geschäftsbedingungen ), which must comply with the provisions of the German Civil Code (BGB). It should contain  

      • seller's contact details

      • ordering procedures,

      • information about payments, delivery and returns ( Lieferbedingungen , Rückgaberecht ).

 

  • Privacy policy ( Datenschutzerklärung ), prepared in accordance with the requirements of the GDPR ( DSGVO ), taking into account, among others:  

      • legal basis for data processing,

      • information about cookies ,

      • data of the processor ( Verantwortlicher ),

      • laws user ( Recht auf Auskunft, Löschung, Widerspruch ).  

 

  • Another mandatory document is the right of withdrawal instruction ( Widerrufsbelehrung ). German law precisely defines the content and form in which the consumer must be informed of their right to withdraw from the contract within 14 days. The absence of this information, or its incorrect wording, is often grounds for issuing an Abmahnung .  

 

  • Additionally, the German Digital Services Act requires every commercial website to include an imprint . This contains identifying information about the store owner, including company name, address, tax identification number ( USt -ID), and contact information.  

 

  • Another element is marketing consent . Customers must express their explicit, active consent to receive newsletters or advertising materials, and forms must comply with personal data protection regulations. Pre-selected checkboxes or "hidden" consents in other provisions are prohibited.  

 

Risk of documentation not complying with German law  

In Germany , the principle of equal competition ( Wettbewerbsrecht ) plays a special role . Any entrepreneur can be called upon to correct their documents by a competitor or consumer organization – such calls are called Abmahnungen , which are often accompanied by a demand for payment of legal fees.  

Law firm support – professional protection of the store's interests  

Our law firm has been supporting entrepreneurs planning e-commerce expansion to Germany for years. We offer comprehensive assistance in:  

  • creating regulations in line with German regulations  

  • preparing a privacy policy compliant with the GDPR,  

  • adapting consent forms and checkboxes to the requirements of German regulations ,  

  • representation in the event of receiving Abmahnung ,  

  • audit of the existing store for compliance with German law.  

 

Expansion with a head on your shoulders and legal support  

Starting an e-commerce business in Germany requires diligence and knowledge 
and compliance with restrictive regulations. The key to success lies not only in a good product and logistics, but also in professional documentation. Thanks to this, entrepreneurs can avoid sanctions, build customer trust, and expand sales on Europe's largest online marketplace.  

Do you want to enter the German market without risk? Contact us – we will prepare your documentation in accordance with current legal regulations and SEO best practices.  

 

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