To find real clearance deals, learn where your store puts markdowns (often end caps, a back-corner section, or the bottom shelf of the aisle), check the tag for the markdown pattern, shop seasonal clearance right after a holiday or season ends, and compare the clearance price with other stores before you buy.
Where markdowns hide
- A dedicated clearance section, often in a back corner or along a side wall.
- The bottom shelf of the regular aisle, where the item normally lives.
- End caps at the ends of aisles.
- Near the department for seasonal goods, like garden or holiday items.
- Manager's special stickers on meat, bakery and dairy near their sell-by date.
How to read a clearance tag
Many chains use consistent tag colors or price endings to signal how deep a markdown is and whether more cuts are coming. Patterns vary by retailer, and staff often know them. It's worth asking when markdowns happen in that department. See when stores mark down.
Best times for clearance
| When | What gets marked down |
|---|---|
| After a holiday | Candy, decor, wrapping, themed goods |
| End of a season | Patio and garden, winter gear, swimwear |
| January | Holiday overstock, some electronics accessories |
| Back-to-school end | Supplies, backpacks, dorm items |
| Packaging changes | Discontinued designs and old packaging |
Check before you buy
Clearance is a markdown from this store's price. It doesn't mean it's the lowest price around, and clearance items usually can't be price matched or returned as easily. A quick scan settles it:
- Scan the barcode of the item on the shelf with Price Match Paradise. No account needed to start.
- Review matching offers across supported retailer sources, with stock status and price-match guidance when the retailer data is available.
- Decide in the aisle: ask for a match, buy it here because it's already the best price, or pick it up where it's cheaper.
Clearance rules to remember
- Usually excluded from price matching and often from price adjustments.
- Check the return policy. Final-sale items can't be returned.
- Check dates on food, and inspect for damage.
- Only buy what you'd have bought anyway. See 9 signs of a fake sale.
FAQ
How do I find clearance items in a store?
Look for a dedicated clearance section, the bottom shelf of the regular aisle, end caps, and manager's special stickers on perishables.
When is the best time to shop clearance?
Right after a holiday or the end of a season, in January for holiday overstock, and when packaging changes.
Can you price match clearance items?
Usually not. Most price match policies exclude clearance, closeout and final-sale items.
Is clearance always the lowest price?
No. Clearance is a markdown from that store's price. Another store's regular price can still be lower, so compare before you buy.
Know a real markdown when you see one.
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Price Match Paradise Team
We build the barcode price comparison app that helps shoppers find the lowest price on the item in their hand. Spotted a policy change? Let us know.