Almost two-thirds of internet shoppers are unlikely to send goods back.

Consumers who purchase goods via online retail are less likely to return them, new research has found.

A survey by the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills showed that almost two-thirds of internet shoppers are less likely to send goods back to the retailer than they are to a high street store.

In addition, more than three quarters of people are unaware there are differences between online and high street consumer rights.

Consumer minister Kevin Brennan said it is important that shoppers understand their rights with regards to online retail and return goods which are not up to standard, something which may involve using parcel delivery providers to transport them.

"We are now Europe's biggest online shoppers, so it's important we all know that most online goods can be returned with no questions asked within seven days. We want confident consumers who can assert their rights and get a good deal," he added.

According to the Royal Mail Home Shopping Tracker 2009, 45 per cent of shoppers search catalogues before buying items online, an increase of eight per cent compared to 2008.

Posted by Rob Elliott

Article Added: 11/03/2010 16:45:03