Buying in Bulk

Healthier_Me
Healthier_Me Posts: 5,600 Member
edited September 18 in Food and Nutrition
Tips for Shopping Stores Like Sam’s or Costco

Save money on your grocery and home office bills by buying in bulk.
If you think your family won’t benefit from purchasing grocery and paper goods in large quantity, think again. You may be able to save hundreds per year, simply by changing the way you shop. Be warned, however, as not every purchase at places like Sam’s or Costco is a great deal. Here are a few tips to help you shop bulk item stores with success.

Purchase Only the Things You’ll Use
One hazard of shopping at bulk item stores such as Sam’s Club or Costco is the excitement in seeing so many items priced so reasonably. You may be tempted to throw many more goods in your cart than you normally would. Unless you’re going to use the larger quantity before the item spoils or becomes ineffective, leave it on the shelf. Remember, it’s only a deal if you’re going to use it.

Consider a Business Membership
If you qualify for a business, rather than individual, type of membership, it may be worth the cost. Oftentimes business members are privy to offers that individual memberships are not, such as eye care benefits, printing discounts, and extended shopping hours.

Compare Unit Pricing
Not everything at a bulk item store is a deal. Before you make a purchase, do some homework at your local grocery store. Take a notepad and paper and write down the unit pricing of each item you plan to purchase. Stop in at the office supply store if you’re planning on buying paper goods as well.

When you have your list complete, go to the wholesale store and compare the unit prices of each item. Most bulk rate stores have unit pricing clearly marked on the sale price. If not, bring along a calendar and divide the total units by the price. You may be surprised at the results.

Read more:
http://personalbudgeting.suite101.com/article.cfm/buying_in_bulk

Replies

  • Healthier_Me
    Healthier_Me Posts: 5,600 Member
    Tips for Shopping Stores Like Sam’s or Costco

    Save money on your grocery and home office bills by buying in bulk.
    If you think your family won’t benefit from purchasing grocery and paper goods in large quantity, think again. You may be able to save hundreds per year, simply by changing the way you shop. Be warned, however, as not every purchase at places like Sam’s or Costco is a great deal. Here are a few tips to help you shop bulk item stores with success.

    Purchase Only the Things You’ll Use
    One hazard of shopping at bulk item stores such as Sam’s Club or Costco is the excitement in seeing so many items priced so reasonably. You may be tempted to throw many more goods in your cart than you normally would. Unless you’re going to use the larger quantity before the item spoils or becomes ineffective, leave it on the shelf. Remember, it’s only a deal if you’re going to use it.

    Consider a Business Membership
    If you qualify for a business, rather than individual, type of membership, it may be worth the cost. Oftentimes business members are privy to offers that individual memberships are not, such as eye care benefits, printing discounts, and extended shopping hours.

    Compare Unit Pricing
    Not everything at a bulk item store is a deal. Before you make a purchase, do some homework at your local grocery store. Take a notepad and paper and write down the unit pricing of each item you plan to purchase. Stop in at the office supply store if you’re planning on buying paper goods as well.

    When you have your list complete, go to the wholesale store and compare the unit prices of each item. Most bulk rate stores have unit pricing clearly marked on the sale price. If not, bring along a calendar and divide the total units by the price. You may be surprised at the results.

    Read more:
    http://personalbudgeting.suite101.com/article.cfm/buying_in_bulk
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