As a concerned and disappointed online shopper, I found out too late that the shirts I had eagerly ordered were being shipped from overseas. It was surprising and disheartening to only discover this after completing the purchase when receiving the shipment notification from China.

This lack of upfront disclosure not only impacts the delivery timeline, but, unbeknownst to many consumers, can also have ramifications related to import taxes and return costs. In 2019, U.S. online shoppers have sent back an estimated $41 billion worth of goods ordered (according to a report by commercial real estate firm CBRE and Optoro, a technology firm). This enormous total doesn’t even account for the costs and complications of international returns.

Thus, we urge lawmakers and regulators to introduce legislation requiring online sellers to transparently communicate the origin of their products. It is crucial for consumers to have this information beforehand to make informed decisions.

Sign this petition to put consumers first by endorsing the mandate of clear disclosure for shipment origin on online purchases.