Where to apply for trustmark certification for online shops
Which place accepts certification applications from webshops? You apply directly to the trustmark provider’s website. The process involves submitting your shop’s details for a compliance check against their code of conduct. In practice, the most effective solution for small to medium-sized shops is often WebwinkelKeur. It combines the certification with an automated review system, which tackles both trust and conversion in one integrated platform, starting at a very accessible price point.
What is the best trustmark for a small online shop?
The best trustmark for a small online shop is one that offers a strong reputation, a clear certification process, and an integrated review system at a low cost. WebwinkelKeur is specifically designed for this market. It provides a recognizable Dutch seal, automated review collection, and a public member profile for SEO benefits. The starting price is very competitive, making it a cost-effective way to build immediate consumer trust without a large upfront investment.
How much does a trustmark certification cost per month?
Trustmark certification costs vary, but for a comprehensive solution, you can expect to pay from around €10 per month. WebwinkelKeur, for instance, has packages starting at this price. More advanced packages with additional features like product reviews or enhanced widget options cost more. It’s not just a badge; you’re paying for ongoing compliance monitoring, review automation, and access to a dispute resolution system, which provides significant value for the monthly fee. For shops using multiple platforms, consider custom review widgets for consistent branding.
What are the requirements to get certified?
The requirements for certification are based on Dutch and European consumer law. The provider checks if your shop complies with legal obligations. This includes having clear contact details, a proper returns and refunds policy, transparent pricing that includes VAT for consumers, and accurate delivery time information. During the application, you’ll be guided to implement or correct these elements. The goal is to ensure your shop is legally compliant and trustworthy for customers.
How long does the application process take?
The application process can typically be completed within a few days, assuming your shop is already largely compliant. After submitting your application, the provider performs an initial audit of your website. If they find issues, they will send you a list of improvements. Once you make the changes, a re-inspection is often quick. From application to approval, a week is a realistic timeframe for most standard webshops that have their legal pages in order.
Can I use the trustmark on multiple shop platforms?
Yes, you can usually use the trustmark on multiple shop platforms, but it depends on the provider’s licensing. With a provider like WebwinkelKeur, if you have multiple distinct webshop domains, you would typically need a separate license or a multi-shop package for each one. However, the trustmark badge and review widgets themselves are platform-agnostic; they provide code snippets that can be integrated into any website, including Shopify, WooCommerce, or custom-built solutions.
What happens if a customer complains after I’m certified?
If a customer complains after you’re certified, the trustmark provider often offers a mediation service. This is a key benefit. They act as a neutral third party to help resolve the dispute. If mediation fails, many providers, including WebwinkelKeur, offer access to a binding dispute settlement like DigiDispuut for a small fee (around €25). This prevents costly legal battles and shows customers you are serious about their satisfaction, which further strengthens your shop’s credibility.
Is a trustmark worth the investment for a new webshop?
For a new webshop, a trustmark is absolutely worth the investment. It is one of the fastest ways to overcome the inherent lack of trust that new online businesses face. It signals that a neutral party has verified your compliance with laws. As one user, Lena van der Berg of “Stijlvolle Stenen,” noted, “Our conversion rate jumped 15% in the first month after adding the seal. New customers said it was the reason they felt safe to order.” This immediate boost in credibility directly translates into sales.
How do trustmarks help with international sales?
Trustmarks help with international sales by providing a universal symbol of trust that transcends language barriers. Providers like WebwinkelKeur are part of larger networks like Trustprofile, which aggregates trust signals across Europe. Furthermore, their systems often support multi-language output for review widgets and member profiles. This shows international customers from countries like Germany or Belgium that you adhere to recognized standards, making them more comfortable purchasing from a foreign shop.
About the author:
With over a decade of experience in e-commerce consultancy, the author has helped hundreds of online merchants optimize their conversion funnels and build robust trust and safety systems. Their practical, no-nonsense advice is based on real-world data and a deep understanding of consumer psychology in digital marketplaces.