How to Shop Sucessfully at Wal-Mart

The stores are less crowded, the parking lot less full, and there are more associates present who know the merchandise.

Most department managers work from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. on weekdays. They are usually least pressed for time from about 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. when they go to lunch. Many of the most experienced sales clerk and cashiers work the same hours though they often work on weekends as well. Most salaried managers also work 7 to 4.

This is important if you need help. A newly hired, part-time worker who comes in at 6 p.m. is not going to be well informed.

Visit the same store.

This will let you get to know the layout of the departments. You also may get to know a few of the associates, especially the helpful ones. Don't be afraid to ask what good deals are available, or when some seasonal item may go on sale. A really good associate will also inform familiar customers about problems with an item such as numerous complaints or returns.

Most departments are redesigned, section by section, a couple of times a year, this is a requirement from the main office in Bentonville, AR. Merchandise deleted from the new arrangement are usually clearance. So, ask about clearance items. Associates should be happy to get them out of the way.

Have a plan and make a list.

While this is obvious, not everyone is an experienced, well-organized shopper. Knowing exactly what you need and where it is located will speed the shopping experience and avoid repeat visits. If an item is out on the shelf, ask an associate if they have anymore or if it is on display elsewhere. You can also ask when they expect a delivery. Other stores can be called from the service desk to see if they have the item in stock.

Keep your receipts.

Wal-Mart is fairly liberal in allowing returned or exchanged merchandise. Have the greeter at the front door place a sticker on the items being returned.

Bring your ads and coupons.

Super Centers honor completion ads...if it is exactly the same item. The ad has to be current and for local competitors only. They may not honor ads on stores that are more than a couple of miles away. The cashier should give the discount at the register, and you can talk to a CSM (customer service manager) if there is a question.

Wal-Mart does not generally honor "gimmick ads" such as two for one. Wal-Mart accepts coupons on the exact item but never has "double coupons" or similar promotions. Wal-Mart's own circulars has some special prices but also contains items for what it calls its "Every Day Low Price". Specials are labeled "Rollback" or "Save Even More".

Super centers sometimes receive large quantities of one item, more than can be quickly sold. Management or the department head sometimes put such an item on an "in store ad". This is a sale that applies only to that store and ends when inventory is reduced. Departments that have perishable merchandise such as produce, meat, and live plants (part of lawn and garden) are especially likely to have such sales.

It does little good to complain to most associates about high prices, since they seldom can do anything about them. If you must vent, talk to a salaried manager. You can also call the corporate complaint line, 1-800-WAL-MART. Don't expect too much, but in the end Wal-Mart has to keep its customers happy. To get any results, be specific and have all your facts straight.

Shop the day after a holiday.

Christmas and other seasonal merchandise go on sale the day after the holiday, usually 50 per cent off. Items that don't sell quickly may be discounted 75 per cent or more.

Garden season gradually comes to an end beginning in July. Plants, especially trees and shrubs often go on sale about that time. Small mowers seldom are discounted, but riding mowers sometimes are. Ask management if prices on riding mowers can be negotiated. Mowers that have been used and returned may be sold for half price or less, usually without a guarantee.

Check out walmart.com.

More expensive items are worth a little research. You might want to check what is available through walmart.com. The items can be shipped to your local store for pickup without additional charge. Special deals are occasional available for display models in the electronics department or when a model is being closed out. If a store is out of an item, call nearby stores. The best time to call is in the morning.