Day: January 12, 2013

Targeted Shopping

Dannie learned all the secrets of Target sales at this great link: Code Red: How to Read Target Clearance Tags

Here are some highlights:

  • The last digit of the price tells you where it is in the clearance cycle.  See the  blog at the link above for the gory details.  Most of us are just going to buy the thing when we see it on sale, not come back later for a lower price, but it’s still interesting coding.

These are excerpted from this entry on The Krazy Coupon Lady blog:

  • Gift Card Bonus Price Endings: This has nothing to do with clearance items, but since we are talking about price tag endings, anything that ends with $0.49, $0.79, and $0.99 indicate a Target Gift Card promotion is in effect. The Gift Card offer details will be listed at the very top in red, and the amount of the gift card will be listed on the card or offer.
  • Use the scanner. Sometimes the clearance team members miss an item that should have been re-stickered with a lower price. Take the time to check the price with a scanner. Also, scan things that are one of a kind to see if the price is even lower than listed.
  • Look for repackaged items. These items could be something that was purchased online and returned to the store, a return without a box, or two-piece clothing items missing a top or bottom. While they may not be the prettiest item in the store, you can often snag a great deal!
  • Watch for “As Is” items. Merchandise with tags labeled “AS IS” are typically items Target doesn’t carry anymore, and in an effort to move those products out of the store, they are sold at clearance prices.
  • Use Your Target REDcard. Cardholders making purchases with Target’s REDcard receive 5% off, or 5% cash back.
  • Keep your receipts. Target has a strict return policy that limits the number of returns you can make without a receipt ($75 per year). However, Target tracks every credit card purchase, so if you lose your receipt, have customer service scan the returned item and your credit card. If they find the transaction, they will let you return the item without the physical receipt. If you do have your receipt, Target will adjust the prices on items that go on sale within 14 days of the purchase. (Note: They do not adjust clearance prices.)
  • Take advantage of Target’s price matching policy. If you find an item in a competitor’s ad, bring it to Target and they’ll match the advertised price. The competitor’s ad must be local and current, and the product must be the identical item (brand name, quantity and model number).
  • Sign up for mobile coupons. Sign up to receive coupons via text message on your mobile phone. To redeem, simply show the cashier the barcode.
  • BYOB (bring your own bag). For each reusable bag used at checkout, Target gives back $0.05. It’s a great way to keep plastic bags out of landfills while putting a little money back in your pocket.
  • Use coupons. Not only does Target accept manufacturer coupons, they also can be stacked with their store coupons.