Be careful not to be overcharged!

[Safe Home Security of Panama]

Not mentioning any names but yesterday I was overcharged for grocery items I purchased using a credit card at a store that sells groceries and other household items. In some grocery type stores instead of adding up the items and printing a receipt with an itemized bill, the clerk uses a calculator, takes the credit card and charges. Unlike Romero's an itemized bill is not given so there is no way to go over a receipt. Having excited kids in the car ready to go to the pool at Chiriquí Farms I did not even notice or think to add up the items. Today I added up all the items and was overcharged $35.

[Safe Home Security of Panama]

Investigation continued today...Walter, I brought my calculator today and see if the price was the same as the register. 

•  It was not Ivan, there are many stores in the Boquete area, that do not use itemized bills. Do not want to throw any business under the bus, but my decision to shop at more organized chain stores will prevent a negative shopping experience in the future.

•  Today I brought my phone w/ calculator to try out Walters idea:  two items out of four were not marked with a price tag and there was no price label on the shelf. It seems the price was correct, but with out labeling there is no way to know the actual price.

•  At the non-chain stores there seems to be less regulation on expiration dates, as on more than one occasion, I have purchased cheese that was moldy. Never returned it always just tossed it. Ivan on one occasion tossed out a boxed item that was a month over the expiration date, good for them.

• . I like a legible itemized bill that clearly shows what I bought with the items name, price and date on the receipt.

•  I am also liking getting something back, stickers for product and cash or value like Price Smart.

• So I have made a bold decision to do the majority of my grocery shopping at Romeros, the farmers market across the street, Super Baru, Do It Center, Novey and Price Smart. Looks like an itemized bill, labeled product and clean organization has won. With the exception of the farmers market, which is just a great place for fruit and veggies at low prices.

Thanks for your comments.

[John Anderson]

Let me take a wild guess, it had to be Ivan's in Alto.

[Safe Home Security of Panama]

Great idea, I will do this, but I am now a fan or the itemized receipt...also good if you buy sour milk and need to prove when it was purchased. I am sure it was a honest mistake.

Thanks Walter and Fran

Good day to both!

[Safe Home Security of Panama]

Update, I went to the store and calmly explained what happened with the owner. We went over what I purchased and a refund was given. The owner was very apologetic and kind.  It was my mistake not to go over the purchase yesterday and I have learned the importance of an itemized receipt. Romero's and Price Smart will be seeing more of me, so I can get a accurate invoice.