Here are some basics of shopping at Target

There are two different types of stores:

  • Target: These are the basic Target stores, many of these stores now have an expanded grocery department with some fresh meats and fruit, but they are not considered a Super Target.
  • Super Target: The Super Target stores have a full-fledged grocery store within the Target store. You will find a bakery, larger meat, dairy and frozen food departments. If your store is a Super Target, there will be a sign on the outside that says Super Target.

Prices: The prices at each Target will vary by region, in fact, the prices may even vary by city.  I have 2 stores that are about 20 minutes from me, and I find that the one has slightly higher prices than the other.

Weekly Ad: Target puts out a weekly ad, which runs from Sunday-Saturday.  You can view the Target weekly ad online. The ad is also delivered in the Sunday edition of most newspapers.

Price Cuts: Target will occasionally have unadvertised deals, these are “price cuts” that can sometimes last for several weeks.  You can often find the date the price cut will end on the shelf tag.  Price cuts may vary by location

Dollar Spot:  Target has a dollar section that can be found right as you walk in the store.   The majority of these items are only $1.00, however they do have a few items that are priced at $2.50.

Coupons: Target accepts coupons, and it is a great way to save money, because they will allow you to use one Target coupon and one manufacturer coupon on each item.

Return Policy: Target has a very strict return policy, so you will want to make sure to keep your receipt.   If you lose your receipt, you can ask them to do an item look-up and they can use the credit or debit card that you used to make your purchase.  You can also ask for a gift receipt to make returns easy for those you buy gifts for.

Clearance: The clearance is my favorite part of Target.  Each department clearances their items on a set day, the percentage of the markdown will range from 15%-70% off.  Holiday and seasonal items get marked down as low as 90% off.

Scanners: The scanners are a great resource for checking prices, especially clearance items that may have been marked lower.   Consider the scanners your Target BFF!   If you scan an item and you get a message that says “Item not found” it usually means that the item had been salvaged and is no longer in their system.   More times than not if you try to buy the item, the cashier will tell you that it has been salvaged and they cannot sell you the item.

5% off Everyday:  You can save an extra 5% off all Target purchases when you use the Target Red Card or Target Debit Card.   Plus, you will also get FREE shipping at Target.com.

Reusable Bag Credit: Target will give you a $ .05 credit for each reusable bag you use.