Photograph Credit: Flickr (Kel Obrien)
As I finish gathering the last items on my grocery list and I head up to the registers, I make note of any rain checks that need to be requested, and I move any coupons that I will not use on this visit to the back of my envelope.
By the time I get to the register, I have the coupons I plan to redeem ready to hand to the cashier. My checkout process takes place in three phases: prior to checkout, during checkout, and after checkout.
Prior to Checkout
1. At the registers, I make the following choices:
- Bypass the express lanes. Even if I only have 9 items, I will not use the express lane if I plan to use coupons. The extra time it takes at the register will hold up other customers that need to get in and get out of the store. Now if I am only purchasing “buy one get one free” items without coupons and I have a few items, then yes, I will use the express lane.
- Walk pass the self scanners. With coupons, the self scanners require the cashier to take the coupons. Since there is one cashier for four terminals, the cashier will get overloaded with my coupons. In consideration of the grocery store staff, I choose not to use the self scanners while shopping with coupons.
- Select my register based on the cashier. Having shopped each week at my favorite grocery stores, I have my favorite cashiers.
Even if I have to wait for an extra few minutes, I prefer the store bookkeeper or customer service representative. If there are customers waiting, these employees will open a register to help out.
The bookkeeper or customer service representative has the authority to override the system. When I use a Publix coupon at Bi-Lo, a manager or customer service representative is needed to override the transaction. If that employee is already running a register, then checkout is quick and easy.
2. After choosing the checkout lane, my son and I unload the grocery cart onto the conveyor belt. In this order:
- Reusable bags
- Freezer and refrigerated items
- Boxed and canned items
- Breads, chips, and bakery items
- Cleaning items
- Rain check and “free with coupons” items
If I am using a rain check from a prior visit, then the cashier will need to override the price of the item. I keep these items at the back of the pack, so I have time to warn the cashier before getting to those items.
Also, if I am using a coupon for one free pack of mashed potatoes, then the cashier will need to enter that price. I hold those items until the end, so that I can get the coupon and rain checks ready while the cashier is scanning the other items.
Prior to checkout, I choose the best lane and place my items on the conveyor belt in order. Having an order and a plan during checkout helps the process to proceed without forgetting or missing an opportunity for savings. As you plan your shopping trip, remember to plan your checkout process as well. Happy savings!
Question: What opportunity of savings have you missed because you were not organized at checkout? Please add your answer to the comments.