1. Warn your cashier about having multiple transactions
If you fail to inform your cashier at the start of the transaction, he or she may zip through scanning your items and may eventually need to correct your total. Been there, done that! It doesn’t go over too well. Remember, the cashier is just doing her job and is trying to keep the line from backing up. Preventing mistakes by communicating keeps everyone happy.
2. Organize your shopping cart
3. Limit the number of items per transaction
4. Be ready to make a quick decision
When I coupon, I’m on a mission and I don’t like to be interrupted. I won’t even answer my cell phone until all of my transactions are complete. Be ready to make a quick decision if an item doesn’t ring up at the correct price! Do you want it at the current price or not? Quickly decide in order to keep your transactions moving. I’ve found that if I’m confused, it’s best to leave the item. I don’t want to spend 10 minutes discussing it, only to find out that it’s the wrong item to match the coupon. I just say, “I think I’ll wait on this item,” and we’re on to the next one!
If the shelf is empty and you’ve decided you want a rain check, let the cashier know immediately. This will prevent delays. Also, if you know an item isn’t ringing up at the price you’re willing to pay for it, move it away from any other transactions in your shopping cart! Lastly, remember to remove the coupon of the item you aren’t purchasing—it will ding loudly if you haven’t purchased the corresponding item!
5. Don’t lose your rewards card
Multiple transactions require your rewards card to be swiped several times. The cashier may forget to give it back to you, or it may get lost in the shuffle of your merchandise. I typically put the card back in my hand once it’s swiped until all of my transactions are done. Don’t lay the card on the conveyor belt, and don’t let the cashier lay your rewards card on her register or anywhere that it could get knocked off. Believe me, I’ve had some crazy things happen when I check out, and I’m not always laughing!
