Today’s topic – Self check out/scanning

I like the self check out lines. I choose them when I am at stores that have that program. I usually don’t have more than 10-12 items and I know how to scan the bar codes without issue, and I know how to key in the PLU numbers on the produce. It is not rocket science, and it is not saving lives…..but it amazes me how many people do NOT know how and SHOULD not be using self check/scanning.

If you do any of the following scenarios I am about to mention – really, you should NOT be using the self check out/scanning in any store.

– if you have a WHOLE cart load of groceries. It will take you more time to scan each item, and when you have a message that you need to see the attendant, you have to stop what you are doing. Today the couple had a full cart load, and a baby in a stroller. They filled one box and they tried to take it and the case of water that they bought off the check out sensor and it wouldn’t let them continue. Why you may ask? Well, the answer is simple – it is SENSORED, it knows when you take items on and off the shelf. She told them it wouldn’t let them go on until they put the box and the water back on.

– if you plan on PRICE MATCHING 10 items with other stores flyers. Today – the girl in front of me had the flyers for Freshco, Loblaws, and Metro – for her Broccoli, mushrooms, apples, and whatever the hell she put on the scale. EACH AND EVERY item had to be adjusted. Oh, and she received 2 phone calls while she was trying to do this transaction. Lady (and she was younger than me) – get in a REAL line if you want to do that kind of shopping.

– if you are not really familiar with PLU codes on produce and you have to ask for assistance for each and every item in your cart. Get in a real line and have the staff scan it for you.  The staff is there for assistance, but if you need help with almost every item, this line is not for you.

I don’t think I am being unreasonable in my comments here today. Life is busy, and for the most part, the grocery shopping experience is a pain the a** and no body really LOVES to do it, but it does have to get done. Some of us who don’t have to shop for a large family, or go more than once a week to pick up a few fill in items, like the convenience of the self checkout/scanning area of these stores. It is supposed to be a fast, easy and relatively painless experience……not like Chinese water torture which it was today.

How do you feel about it?