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Will Target Price Match Online Prices? Decoding Target’s Price Matching Policy

Yes, Target does price match online prices under certain conditions. This is a fantastic way to ensure you’re getting the best deal possible without having to hop from store to store. However, navigating the nuances of their policy can be a bit tricky, so let’s dive into the details.

Understanding Target’s Price Match Guarantee

Target’s commitment to offering competitive prices is encapsulated in their price match guarantee. The goal is simple: if you find an identical item at a lower price, either at select online retailers or in local competitor ads, Target will match that price. It’s a customer-centric approach designed to build loyalty and ensure shoppers feel confident they’re getting value for their money. But before you start loading up your cart, let’s examine the specifics.

What Items Qualify for Price Matching?

The key here is identical. The product must be the exact same brand, size, weight, color, model number, and condition as the item you’re purchasing at Target. Any deviation, no matter how small, could disqualify it. For example, if Target sells a specific brand of coffee in a 12oz bag, they’ll only match the price of that exact 12oz bag, not a 10oz or 14oz bag from the same brand.

Furthermore, the item must be in stock both at Target and at the competitor. This prevents situations where shoppers try to match prices for items that are temporarily unavailable elsewhere, exploiting potential loopholes.

Eligible Online Retailers

Target doesn’t price match every online retailer under the sun. Their policy specifically lists a selection of approved online competitors. As of the latest information available, the approved list includes giants like:

Amazon.com
Walmart.com
BestBuy.com
Costco.com
SamsClub.com
Macys.com
Wayfair.com
Kohl’s.com
HomeDepot.com
Lowes.com

This list can change, so it’s always prudent to check the Target website or ask a Target team member for the most up-to-date roster before heading to checkout.

Exclusions to the Price Match Guarantee

Like any policy, Target’s price match has exclusions. Understanding these exceptions is critical to avoid disappointment. Key exclusions include:

Marketplace Sellers: Target does not price match items sold by third-party marketplace sellers on platforms like Amazon Marketplace or Walmart Marketplace. Only prices from the main retailer (Amazon or Walmart, respectively) are considered.
Clearance, Closeout, or Damaged Items: Prices stemming from clearance events, closeout sales, damaged or open-box items are generally excluded. The comparison product needs to be brand new and in sellable condition.
Typographical Errors: If a competitor’s price appears to be a blatant typo (e.g., a $500 TV listed for $5), Target is unlikely to honor it.
Limited-Time Offers: Limited-quantity or “lightning deal” offers that expire quickly usually don’t qualify.
Gift Card Offers: Price matching isn’t applied to deals where the competitor’s price is only achievable by purchasing a gift card.
Black Friday and Cyber Monday: Price matching may be suspended or severely restricted during Black Friday and Cyber Monday events due to the sheer volume of discounted items. Always confirm with Target during these periods.
Items Requiring a Membership: Prices at stores like Costco or Sam’s Club are only honored if they are available to all customers and do not require a membership to view the price.

How to Request a Price Match

The process for requesting a price match is fairly straightforward. You have two primary options:

In-Store Price Match: When shopping in a physical Target store, simply bring the competitor’s advertisement (either printed or displayed on your mobile device) to the attention of a team member at checkout. Ensure the ad clearly shows the lower price and the product’s details. They’ll verify the information and adjust the price accordingly if it meets the requirements.
Online Price Match: If you’re shopping on Target.com, you can contact Target’s customer service via phone, email, or online chat. Provide them with the link to the product on the competitor’s website, and they’ll review the information. If approved, they’ll adjust the price before you complete your order.

Tips for a Successful Price Match

To maximize your chances of a successful price match, keep these tips in mind:

Be Prepared: Have all the necessary information readily available, including the competitor’s ad or website link, the product’s model number, and any other relevant details.
Act Quickly: Price matching is subject to availability, so don’t delay in requesting the adjustment.
Be Polite and Patient: Target team members are there to help. Approach the process with a friendly attitude, and be patient while they verify the information.
Read the Fine Print: Familiarize yourself with Target’s official price match policy on their website before attempting a price match. This will avoid misunderstandings and ensure you meet all the requirements.
Keep Proof: Take screenshots of the competitor’s price and product details in case the online listing changes.

Target Price Match FAQs

Here are 12 frequently asked questions regarding Target’s Price Match Policy to help you understand it better:

1. Can I price match after I’ve already purchased an item?

Yes, Target typically allows you to request a price match within 14 days of your purchase, provided you have your receipt and the lower price is still valid.

2. Does Target price match Amazon Prime prices?

Target will price match Amazon.com, but the product must be sold directly by Amazon, not a third-party seller. The price matched will be the listed price, not an exclusive Amazon Prime price.

3. What if the competitor’s item is out of stock when I try to price match?

The competitor’s item must be in stock at the time of the price match request. If it’s out of stock, Target won’t honor the price match.

4. Does Target price match “percentage off” coupons?

No, Target generally does not price match percentage-off coupons or promotions offered by competitors.

5. Can I combine a Target coupon with a price match?

Yes, you can often combine a Target coupon (manufacturer or Target store coupon) with a price match, maximizing your savings. Always confirm with a team member to ensure the coupon is applicable.

6. Does Target price match items on eBay?

No, Target does not price match prices found on auction sites like eBay, as these are typically considered third-party sales.

7. What if the competitor charges shipping fees?

Target may factor in the competitor’s shipping fees when determining the final price match. The total price, including shipping, must be lower than Target’s price. Target.com offers free shipping over $35.

8. Can I price match multiple items in a single transaction?

Yes, you can price match multiple eligible items in a single transaction. Each item will be assessed individually against the requirements of the policy.

9. Does Target price match services like installation or warranties?

The price match policy typically applies to the price of the product itself, not additional services like installation, warranties, or extended service plans.

10. Is the price match policy the same online and in-store?

The core principles of the price match policy are generally consistent across online and in-store purchases. However, it’s always wise to review the specifics on Target’s website or with a team member, as nuances can sometimes vary.

11. What if I don’t have the original packaging?

The original packaging is not typically a requirement for price matching, as long as the item is new and unopened.

12. Can Target refuse a price match?

Yes, Target reserves the right to refuse a price match if they believe the request doesn’t meet the policy’s requirements, if the competitor’s price is unverifiable, or if they suspect fraud or abuse of the policy.

By understanding these details, you can confidently leverage Target’s price match guarantee to get the best possible deals and enjoy a seamless shopping experience. Happy bargain hunting!