Ever wonder about the tricks to really shop Target clearance? We’ve got the scoop here for you!!
Have you ever picked up something on clearance at Target and looked at it, wondering if the price might not drop even further? Well, I’ve got the tips you need to know how to read the Target clearance tags to ensure that you are getting the best possible deal!
How to read the clearance tag.
Reading the clearance tags at Target is really pretty simple. There are a few things you need to know. First off, the tag tells you the percentage of discount you are receiving in the upper corner. On this tag, you see 30 — that means the item is 30% off.
Target starts clearance at 15% off. It then moves up to 30% off, then 50% and tops out at 70% off (use to be 75%). It is also important to notice the prices. The first number is the original price and the second number (circled) is the sale price.
In this photo below, you will see that the item is now marked down 50% off and they might lower the price even more!
In this final photo, you see that the discount is 75% off, which means that is the lowest the price will drop. Make sure you grab the item now if you want and/or need it. Keep in mind that some stores only drop to 70% off. If you see your item is 70 – 75% off, make sure you grab it then, as that is the lowest price you will find.
Which days of the week should you shop?
There is no known schedule (other than some misguided details), so you will have to check at your local store. If you watch, you might find a pattern where you shop. You might also talk to your store’s manager to see if he/she can help.
When is the toy clearance?
The Target toy clearance happens twice per year. The first time is in early January. You can find toys marked down more than 50% off! You can also find toys on clearance in late July / early August. Since the exact dates vary from store to store, it is good to visit your location regularly during these times of the year so you can grab the deals when they begin.
How do they mark down seasonal items?
Target follows what is called the “3-3-2 rule”. As soon as the holiday has passed, they begin to mark down items. Again, not all stores follow this exact schedule, but it will give you an idea of how they drop pricing on seasonal items.
As we move further from the holiday, prices drop more and more. Here are some general days to keep in mind:
- First 3-5 days after the holiday, items are 50% off
- Next 3-5 days after the holiday, they drop further to 75% off
- The following 2 (or more) days after that, they drop even more to 90% off
Knowing when and how to shop the clearance deals can really save you money. The deals themselves vary from store to store, so just because one person finds a deal where they shop, doesn’t mean you will find the exact same one at your store.
**Remember, this is a guide and the actual sales cycles, discounts and prices may vary where you shop.
shirley says
I found a window insulation kit for $3.88 (after 70% off). Do you think it will drop down to 90%? I thought 70% is the lowest it goes unless it is holiday items.
Tracie says
70-75% off is usually the lowest price discount (at least from my experience).
Jenn says
In my store we only go to 70% unless it is holiday merchandise then we go to 90%.
Jenn says
No it will most likely stay at the 70% off mark.
josephine samuel says
thank you for this info!! Awesome…generally when we see clearance tag we just go for it but now with your guidance we know we can wait for further discount. Rocking info.
Tara says
Thanks for your advice on reading the Target tags.
Beth S says
Thanks for the tutorial! I appreciate finding out more info as I am learning more and more about bargain shopping… And here I thought I already had a “good eye” for them! LOL
Jen says
Sorry to be the bearer of bad news but this is completely false. I’ve worked at target and they don’t follow this daily schedule.
Tracie says
If you read the post, I say that not all stores follow this schedule and that you can check at your local store.