Have you ever looked into price matching? While some might use the term to refer to a store matching an in-store price to their online price, or vice versa, I’m referring to when a store is willing to match a competitor’s prices with their own prices.

Not every store does this, but I found many national chains that do! I’m also going to explain the basics of how it works.

Comparing Store Price Match Policies

Note: The information here is subject to change. Always check with the store to make sure you understand the policy.

If you’re wanting to price match an item, the item you’re matching must be identical, sometimes even down to the color. You can check the UPC number on the items to make sure they match.

Additionally, the price must be shown on the same day and in stock at both places: the store where you’re price matching and the store you’re price matching to. So, for example, if you’re at Best Buy and find a laptop and check and see the same one is sold by Amazon for a lower price—but Amazon is out of stock—Best Buy will NOT match the price.

Speaking of Amazon, not every store will price match with Amazon. But if they do, it will only include items that are sold and shipped by Amazon—not third-party or marketplace sellers.

Stores differ in how they will do the price matching process. If you’re in the store, they usually will need to see the print ad or sometimes will accept you showing them an ad on your phone. If you’re price-matching after you’ve already purchased the item (which is only allowed at some stores), you’ll also need your original receipt.

I compared 20 store price match policies in several areas: limitations on numbers of items, where they will price match, how long you have to price match, and whether they will price match with Amazon.

Advance Auto Parts

Advance Auto Parts will price match the same items at competitors’ stores or websites, but they will not price match with Amazon. The price must be listed with the competitor on the day the price match is requested.

Read More→