by Anita Parks

Created on: February 18, 2007   Last Updated: March 27, 2007

To determine if Wal-Mart really does have the best prices, you must look at the complete WM picture, location by location. You may go to different Wal-Marts in different cities, or even in different areas of the same city, and find item pricing slightly different from site to site. You also must take into consideration the sales tax in the area you are shopping, as well as the cost of living for those areas. You must also take into consideration item availability, and refund/return policies. After all, if the entire wagon full of goods is more than you believe it should, or if you have to hunt and search to find what you need, the pricing becomes less significant.

Wal-Mart's pricing is, overall, the best in most areas. You may save more at a Wal-Mart in one city and state, versus another, but as I said, outside factors govern those things. Wal-Mart has the largest logistics division around, and numerous distribution centers all over the states, which allows them to get merchandise to the stores quickly and efficiently, lowering the overhead cost it takes to get that merchandise to a store near you. They are smart, and efficient, when it comes to distribution, and they pass that savings onto us, the consumers.

If you buy, let's say a VCR, from Wal-Mart, and it fails, you need to be familiar with the Company's returns policy. Simply stated, everything in the store can be exchanged or refunded with a receipt within 90 days of purchase - with the exception of a few electronic items and regulated items. Those exceptions can be found on the Wal-Mart website, and from what is stated, apply to all stores in their chain.

As a consumer, in this day and age, I believe that Wal-Mart and Sam's gas pricing is definitely the best around. If you purchase a Wal-Mart gift card, you can use it at the WM gas station and receive 3 cents per gallon off of the already low price! It adds up, especially if you drive a great deal as part of your daily job.

Overall, Wal-Mart does do right by the consumer, in regard to pricing.

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