October 27, 2026, 1:20 pm | Read time: 5 minutes
In November, important rules will change for millions of consumers. Affected are payments on account, inexpensive packages from non-EU countries, the Germany ticket, and car insurance. New regulations for cars, vacation rentals, and Windows computers are also coming into effect.
Another New Fee for Online Orders
For packages from non-EU countries with a value up to 150 euros, a processing fee of two euros will apply starting November 1. It is calculated per product category, is not refunded for returns, and is in addition to the customs duty of three euros imposed since July 2026. This affects shipments from companies like Temu, Shein, and AliExpress. Whether retailers will pass on the costs through prices, shipping fees, or minimum order values remains uncertain.
In November, several promotional days for consumers will also begin. Singles Day on November 11 is followed by Black Friday on November 27 and Cyber Monday on November 30. Consumer advocates recommend long-term price comparisons and checking the imprint, as genuine discounts can be rare and fake shops pose a risk.
Also interesting: Where do Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and other shopping days actually come from?
Stricter Rules for Small Loans and Deferred Payments
Those who wish to pay for a purchase later or in installments must prepare for stricter checks. A new EU-wide regulation will extend consumer credit law from November 20 to include financing options that were largely exempt until now. This includes small loans up to 200 euros, interest- and fee-free offers, and loans with a term of no more than three months. “Buy now, pay later” models from providers like Klarna or PayPal are also covered.
The stricter requirements are intended not only to protect consumers from unsustainable financing but also to grant them additional rights if their creditworthiness is automatically assessed. In such cases, they can request a human review of the decision.
However, the reform does not cover every payment deferral. Exemptions include debit cards with delayed debiting and payment terms offered by retailers without the involvement of a credit institution or payment provider. Consumer advocates expect the rules to at least limit debt traps but do not see them as complete protection.
At the same time, other provisions for credit agreements are changing. The so-called perpetual right of withdrawal is being abolished: If required information is incorrect, the deadline will now end at the latest after 12 months and 14 days. General consumer loans can also be concluded in text form, meaning a handwritten signature is no longer mandatory.
The law also codifies the limits on usurious interest rates developed by case law. Additionally, the regulations for credit scores are being reorganized. According to Section 37a of the Federal Data Protection Act, credit agencies must explain the criteria that significantly influence a key value. Schufa announces that it will disclose the calculation data used for one year in the future.
Consumers must generally prove that a score was decisive for a decision. However, if they demonstrate specific disadvantages in connection with the transmission, the burden of proof shifts: The credit agency must then show that the score was not decisive.
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New Regulations for Travel and Accommodations
Starting November 20, Airbnb will limit the check-out obligations for consumers. Hosts may not require end-of-stay tasks like stripping beds, washing dishes, or taking out trash. Rules regarding the number of guests, quiet hours, pets, smoking, events, key handover, and commercial photo shoots, as well as reasonable instructions like turning off the air conditioning, remain permissible.
Deutsche Bahn is offering its family ticket permanently starting November 1. Up to five people can travel round-trip for 99.99 euros, with a one-way trip costing 59.99 euros. Reservations are included. At least one child must travel, and no more than two travelers can be 15 years or older. Sales for trips starting in November began on October 26.
On January 1, 2027, the price of the Germany ticket will increase from 63 to 66.80 euros monthly. Consumers with a subscription with Deutsche Bahn must agree to continue by November 30. Without a response, the subscription ends on December 31. For orders from October 15, no renewed consent is required.
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Deadlines for Drivers and Electric Cars
Several important deadlines await drivers in November. Those wishing to change their car insurance at the turn of the year must usually cancel the contract by November 30. It is crucial that the notice reaches the insurer on time. Different deadlines apply if the insurance year varies. If the premium increases without improved benefits, a one-month special termination right also exists.
Another deadline concerns the Euro 7 emissions standard. It applies from November 29 initially to newly type-approved passenger car and transport models. From November 29, 2027, all newly registered vehicles in these classes must meet the requirements. Considered are not only emissions but also brake and tire wear, as well as the durability of technical components and drive batteries. Already registered vehicles do not need to be retrofitted.
Owners of electric vehicles who want to secure the THG bonus for 2026 must act earlier. Their data must be submitted to the Federal Environment Agency by November 15. Since service providers need time for processing, they often set earlier deadlines. Depending on the vehicle and provider, bonuses of more than 300 euros are possible. Eligible are also electric motorcycles requiring registration, but not electric scooters with a maximum speed of 45 km/h.