April 20, 2026, 3:54 pm | Read time: 2 minutes
When purchasing tickets or vouchers online, additional costs often arise. There is frequently the option to have the documents sent by mail, for which providers usually charge a fee. Alternatively, there is the “Print@Home” option, where the ticket is printed out by the buyer after purchase. This option was at the center of a recent court ruling.
A provider had charged additional fees for digital vouchers. Customers had to pay a fee to use the Print@Home function. This has drawn criticism because digital delivery is considered particularly easy and fast. A recent court ruling, highlighted by the law firm Dr. Bahr in Hamburg, clarifies that no additional costs may be charged for this.
Court Prohibits Additional Costs
In the specific case, a spa operator charged a so-called system fee of 1.90 euros for online vouchers. The actual price of the voucher was 45 euros. In the shopping cart, the amount automatically increased due to the additional costs. It was also problematic that the shipping method was preset and could not be changed.
The Higher Regional Court of Bamberg deemed this practice anti-competitive. In the ruling dated February 4, 2026, with the case number 3 UKl 4/25 e, it was clearly established that such fees are inadmissible. Providing and transmitting a voucher is one of the basic duties of a seller. Additional internal costs must not be passed on to buyers.
Amazon Prime Price Increase Unlawful! Is a Refund Possible?
Changes in Withdrawing Money at ATMs and Supermarkets
Lack of Price Transparency Criticized
Another point of the decision concerns price transparency. The additional fee was not clearly visible on the offer page. The higher total price only became apparent in the shopping cart. Consumers must be able to see all costs in full before purchase. Only then is a fair comparison of different offers possible. The court emphasized that this transparency is mandatory.
Ruling Strengthens Consumer Rights
The decision provides more clarity in online commerce. Providers are not allowed to charge hidden fees for digital services like Print@Home. At the same time, the obligation for clear price indication is reinforced.
Also of interest: Consumer Center warns against pension portals on the Internet
For buyers, this means more security when shopping online. Prices must be fully transparent from the start. The ruling thus sets clear limits for additional costs and significantly strengthens consumer rights.