Mastering The Clearance Racks
What's Up?
Do you get overwhelmed with clearance sales and knowing whether or not you are getting a good deal? Do you think it takes to much time? Try these easy tips to help you master the art of clearance shopping in minimal time.
Idea
Become an expert at the art of clearance shopping. With some simple tips and perseverance you can find some great values on things you need or want.
See clearance tips below for more information.
How Does It Help?
Stretching your dollar to cover the basics can help the budget. If you need new shoes and can pay $20 less on clearance than on-sale, that is $20 more to cover the bills and necessities. In good times or bad, it helps to minimize the amount you spend on essential items. These extra dollars can also go to paying for a vacation or an item you have had your eye on. Keep track of the savings, by putting them in a savings account, or a virtual bank.
Note - If you do not need an item or cannot use an item, it is not a bargain.
Parent(s)
Your child might need help with this activity. Drive them to the store or mall and have them become actively involved in the shopping process. This will help them understand the value of money and how far a dollar stretches. For example, hand them a $20 dollar bill. Show them what you can get on clearance for $20 dollars versus at regular price. It can be a very graphic illustration of the value of shopping well. It can also help foster the love of a good bargain.
Clearance Shopping Tips
Be Educated
Know the merchandise. Walk through the stores when the new season merchandise comes in and write down the prices. Keep abreast of sale prices during the season. Sometimes clearance items are not marked down as low as a sales item during the season. To know if succeeded in your savings goals you need to be knowledgeable.
Know Your Store
Become familiar your favorite store(s) layout and where they place clearance items. Most stores will keep clearance items in the back of the store, at the end of rows, or in a corner of a department. Sometimes clearance items are even on the same table as regular items. Learn where they place items. This can save you time when you scour the store for a bargain.
Understand the Sales Cycle
Understand the store(s) mark down policies. Talk with a sales clerk or manager to know when they take markdowns. Some stores mark down at the first of the month, and each subsequent week after. Other stores alter the % off clearance during the month. Ask questions, be informed. A store clerk can become your best friend and ally in the shopping wars.
Helpful Hint - Mark your calendar when a big sale is coming up.
Use Coupons
Many department stores offer coupons for a % off a purchase during specific sales. These items are usually good on clearance items. To locate coupons look in the following places:
- Local newspapers (especially Thursday)
- If you sign up for a store credit card or their mailing list you can often receive coupons in the mail or on-line.
- Some websites offer department store coupons you can print.
Be Patient
It does take time and perseverance to search the racks and find what you want. If you learn the store layout and sales process this will save you a significant amount of time. Also think about stopping by the store periodically. If you take 15 minutes every other week, this can save you time in the long run. (Set your watch and get through the store in the allotted time. This is possible if you only peruse the clearance and do not stop to look at other things.)
Build a Shopping Network
Build a network of friends with whom you can share shopping tips. When one of you finds a great deal they can text the deal to everyone. It also helps to have people who can share the sale. Some sales, like the buy 1 get, 2 free, you might not be able to use all the items. But if you split the sale, everyone gets an item they need for a great price.
Know The Retail Seasons
Know the seasons. This can save you money. For example a bathing suit might be out of season in January but in season in February. Knowing this helps you make a more informed decision.
