Posted: 03.01.2011
A gallon of milk, a pound of hamburger, a gallon of gas - nearly everything consumers buy is sold by weight, volume, or measure. Weights and measures inspectors in the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection and city sealers work to make sure consumers are getting their money's worth at checkout counters and gas pumps around the state.
"In 2010, because inspectors were out every day ensuring a fair market place, consumers were charged accurately, or even undercharged, more than 98% of the time based on these inspections." said Michelle Reinen, Director of the Bureau of Consumer Protection, which operates the state's weights and measures program.
Despite the high percentage, consumers should take individual steps to prevent possible pricing errors when shopping or filling up with fuel.
Consumer Tips for Buying Gas
4 Compare the price on the pump with posted advertisements to make sure they are the same.
4 Make sure the pump's dial resets to zero before you start to pump gas.
4 Check to see the price per gallon remains the same throughout the pumping process. If the price changes or the numbers appear to skip, black out, or advance too fast that you cannot read them, there may be a problem.
4 Make sure the meter stops running when you stop the pump.
4 Check the price computation for accuracy. (Pump prices round up to the nearest whole cent.)
4 Always get a receipt, even when paying by cash, as this is your proof of purchase.
4 Review the receipt and make any errors known to the store clerk immediately.
Consumer Tips for General Shopping
4 Write down prices or special sales as you shop. In grocery stores, consider writing the price on packaging without a price tag.
4 Bring the store's ad with you. Some advertised specials such as 25% off or a two-for-one sale may not be in the computer, and the cashier must enter them manually.
4 When sold by weight, all items must be sold by net weight. The wrapping or container should not be included. This also applies to packaged items, which must indicate net weight.
4 At the checkout counter, watch the display screen as prices appear. If you think you are being overcharged, speak up. Ask the cashier to make any adjustment before you pay. Some stores simply adjust the price; others deduct an additional amount or offer the mispriced item for free.
4 Check your receipt before you leave the store. If you have already left the cashier's lane, talk to a store manager to correct any mistakes.
"Wisconsin law requires stores to charge the lowest advertised price and refund any overcharges," added Reinen. "Most overcharges are unintentional. Regardless of the reason, the law requires refunds when consumers are overcharged."
For more weights and measures information, or to file a consumer complaint, contact the Bureau of Consumer Protection on the web at datcp.wisconsin.gov; via e-mail at datcphotline@wi.gov; or call toll-free at 1-800-422-7128.
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