## Examination Procedure for Price Verification

as adopted by

The National Conference on Weights and Measures\*

**1. Background**

The NCWM established the Price Verification Working Group in 1993 to
respond to public concern about price accuracy in retail stores. More
than 500 retailers, consumer representatives, and State and local
weights and measures officials participated in the development of the
procedure. It was adopted by the NCWM at the 80th Annual Meeting in
1995.

The procedure applies to all retail stores, including food, hardware,
general merchandise, drug, automotive supply, convenience, and club or
other stores. Model inspection reports are included to promote the
collection of uniform data. The model reports and uniform procedures
will serve as the foundation for the collection and summarization of
price accuracy data on a national basis. This information may be used to
provide reliable information on price accuracy with a national
perspective. The procedure provides administrators with the tools,
guidance, and background information, as well as uniform test procedures
and enforcement practices, to enhance the economic well-being of
consumers and retail businesses in their jurisdiction. By implementing
this program in cooperation with industry, officials will help to
restore and maintain consumer confidence in retail pricing practices and
technologies, such as scanners, and provide economic benefits for
consumers and the business community.

**2. Status of Promulgation**

The Examination Procedure for Price Verification was recommended for
adoption by the Conference in 1995. The table beginning on page 10 shows
the status of adoption of the procedure.

**THIS PAGE WAS INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK.**

**Table of Contents**

##### Section Page

[1. Scope 169](#__RefHeading___Toc26879928)

[2. Definitions 169](#__RefHeading___Toc26879929)

[2.1. \"Area" 169](#__RefHeading___Toc26879930)

[2.2. \"Cents‑Off\" Representation 169](#__RefHeading___Toc26879931)

[2.3. Direct-Store-Delivery (DSD) Item 169](#__RefHeading___Toc26879932)

[2.4. Displays 169](#__RefHeading___Toc26879933)

[2.5. Hand-held Scanning Device 169](#__RefHeading___Toc26879934)

[2.6. Enforcement Levels 169](#__RefHeading___Toc26879935)

[2.7. Inspection Types 170](#__RefHeading___Toc26879936)

[2.8. Inspection Frequency 170](#__RefHeading___Toc26879937)

[2.9. Inspection Lot 170](#__RefHeading___Toc26879938)

[2.10. Merchandise Group 170](#__RefHeading___Toc26879939)

[2.11. Not-on-File Item 170](#__RefHeading___Toc26879940)

[2.12. Notification of Noncompliance 170](#__RefHeading___Toc26879941)

[2.13. Price Look-Up Code (PLU) 170](#__RefHeading___Toc26879942)

[2.14. Prices 171](#__RefHeading___Toc26879943)

[2.15. Pricing Coordinator 171](#__RefHeading___Toc26879944)

[2.16. Pricing Integrity 171](#__RefHeading___Toc26879945)

[2.17. Sample 171](#__RefHeading___Toc26879946)

[2.18. Scanner 171](#__RefHeading___Toc26879947)

[2.19. Stock-Keeping Unit (SKU) 171](#__RefHeading___Toc26879948)

[2.20. Store-Coded Item 171](#__RefHeading___Toc26879949)

[2.21. Stop-Sale Order 171](#__RefHeading___Toc26879950)

[2.22. Ticketed Merchandise 171](#__RefHeading___Toc26879951)

[2.23. Universal Product Code (U.P.C.).
171](#__RefHeading___Toc26879952)

[3. Test Notes 172](#__RefHeading___Toc26879953)

[3.1. Safety and Health 172](#__RefHeading___Toc26879954)

[3.2. Confidentiality of Findings 172](#__RefHeading___Toc26879955)

[4. Materials and Equipment 172](#__RefHeading___Toc26879956)

[5. Pre-Inspection Tasks 172](#__RefHeading___Toc26879957)

[6. Inspection 172](#__RefHeading___Toc26879958)

[6.1. Position of Equipment 173](#__RefHeading___Toc26879959)

[6.2. Other 173](#__RefHeading___Toc26879960)

[7. Test Procedures 173](#__RefHeading___Toc26879961)

[7.1. Application of Sampling Plans 173](#__RefHeading___Toc26879962)

[7.2. Table 1. Samples, Sample Collection, and Accuracy Requirements
173](#__RefHeading___Toc26879963)

[7.2.1. How to use the table: 173](#__RefHeading___Toc26879964)

[7.2.2. Samples 173](#__RefHeading___Toc26879965)

[7.3. Sample Collection Procedures (for use with either manual or
automated inspection procedures) 174](#__RefHeading___Toc26879966)

[7.3.1. Randomized Sample Collection 175](#__RefHeading___Toc26879968)

[Example 1. Illustrations of the Randomized Sampling Procedure
175](#__RefHeading___Toc26879969)

[Figure 2. Illustration of the Randomized Sampling Procedure
177](#figure-2.-illustration-of-the-randomized-sampling-procedure)

[Figure 3 178](#figure-3)

[7.4. Procedures for Test Purchases, Investigation of Consumer
Complaints, and for Verification of Manually Entered Prices
182](#__RefHeading___Toc26879972)

[7.4.1. Procedure 182](#__RefHeading___Toc26879973)

[7.4.2. Alternative Procedure - Consumer Complaints
183](#__RefHeading___Toc26879974)

[7.4.3. Evaluation of Results 183](#__RefHeading___Toc26879975)

[8. Documentation of Findings 183](#__RefHeading___Toc26879976)

[9. Evaluation of Inspection Results 183](#__RefHeading___Toc26879977)

[9.1. Definition of Errors 183](#__RefHeading___Toc26879978)

[9.2. Computing Sample Errors 183](#__RefHeading___Toc26879979)

[10. Accuracy Requirements 184](#__RefHeading___Toc26879980)

[10.1. Accuracy Requirements 184](#__RefHeading___Toc26879981)

[10.2. Accuracy 184](#__RefHeading___Toc26879982)

[10.3. Ratio of Overcharges to Undercharges
184](#__RefHeading___Toc26879983)

[11. Enforcement Procedures 185](#__RefHeading___Toc26879984)

[11.1. Enforcement Steps 185](#__RefHeading___Toc26879985)

[11.2. Model Enforcement Levels 186](#__RefHeading___Toc26879986)

[12. Post-Inspection Tasks 187](#__RefHeading___Toc26879987)

[13. Supervisory Activities 187](#__RefHeading___Toc26879988)

[13.1. Baseline Surveys 187](#__RefHeading___Toc26879989)

[13.2. Follow-up Inspections 187](#__RefHeading___Toc26879990)

[13.3. Management Information Systems 187](#__RefHeading___Toc26879991)

[14. Appendices 188](#__RefHeading___Toc26879992)

### Examination Procedure for Price Verification

**Section 1. Scope**[]{#__RefHeading___Toc26879928 .anchor}

These procedures may be used to conduct price verification inspections
in any type of store, including those that use Universal Product Code
(U.P.C.) scanners and price-look-up codes at the check-out counter as a
means for pricing. Procedures are included for test purchases and
verifying manual entries. The purpose of the procedure is to ensure that
consumers are charged the correct price for the items they purchase. The
\"randomized\" and \"stratified\" sampling procedures are intended for
use in routine inspections to determine how well a store is maintaining
price accuracy. Nothing in this procedure should be construed or
interpreted to redefine any State or local law or limit any jurisdiction
from enforcing any law, regulation, or procedures that relates to the
accuracy of advertisements of retail prices, or any other legal
requirement.

**Section 2. Definitions**[]{#__RefHeading___Toc26879929 .anchor}

**2.1. \"Area.\"** []{#__RefHeading___Toc26879930 .anchor} **\--** Means
an \"entire store, a \" department,\" \"grouping of shelves or
displays,\" or other \"section\" of a store as defined by the inspector
from which samples are selected for verification. \"Non-public\" areas
of a store are not included (e.g., the area in a pharmacy where
controlled drugs are kept or product store rooms).

**2.2. \"Cents‑Off\" Representation** []{#__RefHeading___Toc26879931
.anchor}. **\--** Means any printed matter consisting of the words
\"cents‑­off\" or words of similar import placed upon any item or on a
label affixed or ad­jacent to an item, stating or representing by
implication that it is of­fered for sale at a lower price than the
ordinary and customary retail selling price (e.g., 15 percent off, bonus
offer s, 2 for 1, or 1-cent sales, etc.).

**2.3. Direct-Store-Delivery (DSD) Item** []{#__RefHeading___Toc26879932
.anchor}**. \--** Means an item delivered to a store, and usually
priced, by route salespeople (e.g., milk, beer, soft drinks, bread, and
snack foods).

**2.4. Displays** []{#__RefHeading___Toc26879933 .anchor}

> **(a) Aisle Stacks or End-of-Aisle Displays. \--** Means displays
> located in freestanding units or attached at the end of or adjacent to
> a tier of shelves.
>
> **(b) Tie-in Displays. \--** Means displays of related products at
> secondary locations in a store (e.g., barbecue sauce on shelves in an
> aisle that may also be simultaneously displayed in the meat department
> of a food store).
>
> **(c) Multiple Displays. \--** Means displays of the same product at
> several locations in a store.

**2.5. Hand-held Scanning Device** []{#__RefHeading___Toc26879934
.anchor}**. \--** Means a portable device that scans U.P.C. codes and
also allows for the comparison of the price displayed on a shelf, item,
or otherwise advertised to the price for the item in the point-of-sale
database.

***Note:** These devices either retain a \"batch\" file of entered
prices and identities for later comparison to the database or operate
\"on-line\" via FM radio to the database. When used for price
verification, they shall only be used with the active point-of-sale
database. If you use a hand-held scanner, verify all price discrepancies
by scanning the item at a check-out register and request a printed
receipt to document the price that consumers would be charged.*

**2.6. Enforcement Levels** []{#__RefHeading___Toc26879935 .anchor}

***Note:** These recommendations are not intended to modify the
enforcement policy of any jurisdiction unless they are adopted by the
jurisdiction.*

> **(a) Lower levels of enforcement actions. \--** Includes increased
> inspection frequency, stop-sale or correction orders, warning letters,
> and other notifications of noncompliance.
>
> **(b) Higher levels of enforcement actions. \--** Includes issuance of
> citations, administrative hearings, civil penalties, or prosecution
> under criminal statutes.

**2.7. Inspection Types** []{#__RefHeading___Toc26879936 .anchor}

> **(a) Automated Inspection. \--** Means inspections that are conducted
> using a hand-held scanning device.
>
> **(b) Manual Inspection. \--** Means removing items from displays and
> taking them to a check-out terminal to verify the price (e.g., select
> the items and either (1) take them to a check-out terminal for
> scanning or (2) record the product identity, U.P.C. number, and shelf
> price for each package on an inspection report) and then manually
> enter the U.P.C. numbers in the register. The manual entries may be
> made by the official or by a store employee.

**2.8. Inspection Frequency** []{#__RefHeading___Toc26879937 .anchor}

*These recommendations do not modify the inspection policy of any
jurisdiction unless adopted by the jurisdiction.*

*Inspection control \-- after a program has been in place for a period
of time and a database is established, procedures can be developed to
randomly select stores for inspection, or to focus inspections on stores
with low levels of compliance.*

> **(a) Normal Inspection Frequency. \--** Means an inspection made at
> the customary time interval used by an enforcement agency. Inspections
> may be conducted during normal business hours. Stores under this
> normal frequency should be inspected semi-annually or annually.
>
> **(b) Increased Inspection Frequency. \--** Means an inspection made
> more often than with the customary time interval, usually as a
> follow-up on prior violations. Inspections may be conducted during the
> normal business hours. Stores under this increased frequency should be
> inspected on a quarterly, bi-monthly, or more frequent basis.
>
> **(c) Term of Increased Inspection Frequency. \--** Means a store
> placed on an increased inspection frequency shall remain at that
> frequency until there are two consecutive inspections with an accuracy
> of 98 percent or higher.
>
> **(d) Special Inspection. \--** Means an inspection that is conducted
> as a follow-up to a prior inspection or to investigate a complaint.

**2.9. Inspection Lot** []{#__RefHeading___Toc26879938 .anchor}**. \--**
Means a group of items available for testing in an \"area\" or
\"areas.\" (See 2.1. \"Area.\")

**2.10. Merchandise Group** []{#__RefHeading___Toc26879939 .anchor}**.
\--** Means a group of products identified under a common heading for
inspection purposes only (e.g., \"advertised sale\" items,
\"end-of-aisle\" items, \"direct delivery\" items, \"cents-off\" items,
or all the items in the \"men's\" department in a department store).

**2.11. Not-on-File Item** []{#__RefHeading___Toc26879940 .anchor}**.
\--** Means items not found in the point-of-sale database. When found,
another item is selected at random (e.g., an item on either side of the
one that was not on file) to replace the item in the sample. A
\"not-on-file\" item is not an error unless you determine that the price
\"charged\" for the item is incorrect by conducting a test purchase or
by asking the check-out clerk to determine the price by using the
store\'s written or stated policy or procedures. If the price is found
to be inconsistent, the error is included in the total.

**2.12. Notification of Noncompliance** []{#__RefHeading___Toc26879941
.anchor}**. \--** Means any written notice given to a store describing
the violations of the law that were found.

**2.13. Price Look-Up Code (PLU)** []{#__RefHeading___Toc26879942
.anchor}**. \--** Means a pricing system where numbers are assigned to
items or commodities, and the price is stored in a database for recall
when the numbers are manually entered. PLU codes are used with scales,
cash registers, and point-of-sale systems.

**2.14. Prices** []{#__RefHeading___Toc26879943 .anchor}**. \--** These
definitions do not amend or effect the provisions of any law,
regulation, or other test procedure.

> **(a) Misrepresented** **Price**. **\--** Means the price charged
> differs from the price at which the item is offered, exposed, or
> ad­vertised for sale, or that the price is different than the price on
> the item, shelf label, or sign.
>
> **(b) Price Charged. \--** Means the price charged for an item and
> either displayed on the automated device or on the receipt issued by
> the device, whether the item is scanned or actually purchased, the
> device is computing or recording while in a training or inspection
> mode, or by using the hand-held device tied to the point-of-sale
> database.
>
> **(c) Overcharge. \--** Means the price charged for an item is more
> than the lowest advertised, quoted, posted, or marked price.
>
> **(d) Undercharge. \--** Means the price charged for an item is less
> than the lowest advertised, quoted, posted, or marked price.
>
> **(e) Intentional Undercharge. \--** Undercharges are not counted as
> errors if the store provides, at the time of inspection, information
> that confirms that the price error was intentional (e.g., an
> undercharge that occurs when a store lowers a price in a database
> before it changes shelf tags or signs in anticipation of selling the
> item at a lower price, or when a store increases the price or
> advertised price of an item, and then increases the price in the
> database, or when a discounted price is rounded to a lower value).

**2.15. Pricing Coordinator**[]{#__RefHeading___Toc26879944 .anchor}**.
\--** Means the individual designated by the store to control and
maintain \"pricing integrity\" in the store although the title will
differ among retailers.

**2.16. Pricing Integrity**[]{#__RefHeading___Toc26879945 .anchor}**.
\--** Means ensuring that the computer price file and/or the price
charged to consumers at a cash register is the same price that is marked
on the product, in an advertisement, and/or the shelf tag.

**2.17. Sample**[]{#__RefHeading___Toc26879946 .anchor}**. \--** Means
the number of items selected for testing from the inspection lot.

**2.18. Scanner**[]{#__RefHeading___Toc26879947 .anchor}**. \--** Means
an electronic system that employs a laser bar code reader to retrieve
product identity, price, and other information stored in computer
memory.

**2.19. Stock-Keeping Unit (SKU)**[]{#__RefHeading___Toc26879948
.anchor}**. \--** Means a system of product identity and pricing similar
to PLUs.

**2.20. Store-Coded Item**[]{#__RefHeading___Toc26879949 .anchor}**.
\--** Means the application of U.P.C. codes to items in the store.
Scales in the meat, deli, and other departments generate U.P.C. labels
that include identity and price information that can be read by
point-of-sale scanners.

**2.21. Stop-Sale Order**[]{#__RefHeading___Toc26879950 .anchor}**.
\--** Means an official document placing a package or an amount of any
commodity off-sale, that is offered or exposed for sale in violation of
the law.

**2.22. Ticketed Merchandise**[]{#__RefHeading___Toc26879951 .anchor}**.
\--** Means items from which the price must be read from a ticket (or
price sticker) and manually keyed into a register.

**2.23. Universal Product Code (U.P.C.).**
[]{#__RefHeading___Toc26879952 .anchor} **\--** Means a unique symbol
that consists of a machine readable code and human-readable numbers.
U.P.C.s are printed on package labels or are applied with tags or
labels. U.P.C. codes may be printed for random weight packages by price
computing scales. U.P.C. symbols must meet the standards established by
the Uniform Code Council (UCC) in order for them to \"scan\" accurately.
The size and clarity of the print and clear area surrounding the symbol
are just a few of the factors that affect accuracy. The UCC issues codes
and answers technical questions. For more information, contact: The
Uniform Code Council, Inc., 7887 Washington Village Drive, Suite 300,
Dayton, OH, 45459. Telephone: 937-435-3870, or on the Internet at
http://www.uc-council.org.

**Section 3. Test Notes**[]{#__RefHeading___Toc26879953 .anchor}

**3.1. Safety and Health**[]{#__RefHeading___Toc26879954 .anchor}**.
\--** Practice safe work habits to avoid personal injuries or property
damage. Be aware of and follow all safety or sanitation rules at the
inspection site. Handle perishable, dairy, or frozen products properly
to avoid damage (e.g., avoid defrosting frozen foods or allowing dairy
products to warm to room temperature that may result in spoilage).

**3.2. Confidentiality of Findings**[]{#__RefHeading___Toc26879955
.anchor}**. \--** Inspection findings should be discussed only with an
authorized store representative and released only in accordance with
applicable public records laws.

**Section 4. Materials and Equipment**[]{#__RefHeading___Toc26879956
.anchor}

The following materials and equipment are recommended for use in
conducting the inspections in this procedure:

Inspection report

-   Copy of laws or regulations

-   Hand-held counter or Price Verification Tally Sheets

-   1 lb (or 1 kg) test standard

-   Merchandise cart (if required and available)

Other equipment and materials provided by the store when available:

-   Current newspaper advertisement or store sales brochures

```{=html}
<!-- -->
```
-   Hand-held scanning device(s). Stores are not required to have this
    equipment or to make it available for your use. However, many stores
    use this equipment to maintain price integrity and may make it
    available for your use on request.

**Section 5. Pre-Inspection Tasks**[]{#__RefHeading___Toc26879957
.anchor}

Prior to conducting an inspection, it is recommended that you contact
the store management, identify yourself, and explain the purpose of your
visit. Determine if there are any health, sanitation, or safety rules.
If requested, provide information on the law or the inspection
procedure.

***Note:** When verifying manual price entries or conducting test
purchases, store management is typically not notified of the test until
the items have been totaled and the transaction completed.*

> **(a)** Notify store representatives that they are invited to
> participate in the inspection.
>
> **(b)** If the store makes a hand-held scanning device available for
> use, request instructions on how to operate it properly. It is
> acceptable for the \"pricing coordinator\" to operate the scanning
> device and participate in the inspection.
>
> **(c)** If you use the manual inspection procedure, advise the store
> representative that you will return the merchandise to its display
> location unless the store representative wants to restock the items,
> which is acceptable. Determine which check-out location to use.
> Arrange to have the register set so that the items you verify are not
> included in sales records.
>
> **(d)** Conduct inspections in a manner that does not disrupt normal
> business activities.

**Section 6. Inspection**[]{#__RefHeading___Toc26879958 .anchor}

Perform the following inspections:

**6.1. Position of Equipment**[]{#__RefHeading___Toc26879959 .anchor}**.
\--** Determine if customer indications on point-of-sale systems meet
NIST Handbook 44, General Code, User Requirement, 3.3. Position of
Equipment. A device equipped with a primary indicating element and used
in direct sales shall be so positioned that its indications may be
accurately read and the weighing and measuring operation may be observed
from some \"reasonable\" customer position.

NIST Handbook 44 defines \"point-of-sale system\" as an assembly of
elements including a weighing element, indicating element, and a
recording element (and may be equipped with a scanner) used to complete
a direct sale transaction.

***Note:** The importance of consumer access to the cash register
display of product information and price cannot be overstated. If
consumers cannot verify prices as the items are being scanned, they must
wait until the transaction is completed (i.e., they must pay by cash,
check, or credit card) before they receive the receipt and can confirm
the prices charged for the items.*

**6.2. Other** []{#__RefHeading___Toc26879960 .anchor}

> **(a)** If you use a cash register, verify the accuracy and legibility
> of information provided on register receipts.
>
> **(b)** Conduct inspections to enforce local requirements
> [if]{.underline} your jurisdiction has specific laws or regulations
> relating to price marking, shelf labels, or unit pricing.

**Section 7. Test Procedures**[]{#__RefHeading___Toc26879961 .anchor}

These procedures shall be used to conduct inspections in any type of
store, whether the store uses scanners or automated price look-up
registers, or where a clerk manually enters the prices.

**7.1. Application of Sampling Plans** []{#__RefHeading___Toc26879962
.anchor}

> **(a)** For normal or increased frequency inspections, follow the
> procedures referred to in Columns 1, 2, and 3 in Table 1. Samples,
> Sample Collection, and Accuracy Requirements.
>
> **(b)** For special inspections, use the test procedures in § 7.2. or
> 7.4., \"Procedure for Test Purchases and for Verifying Manually
> Entered Prices.\"

**7.2. Table 1. Samples, Sample Collection, and Accuracy Requirements**
[]{#__RefHeading___Toc26879963 .anchor}

> **7.2.1. How to use the table:** []{#__RefHeading___Toc26879964
> .anchor}
>
> **(a)** Look up in Column 1 for the type of store you are inspecting;
> select the appropriate sample size from Column 2; then refer to Column
> 3 for the type of sample collection plan to use.
>
> **(b)** Follow the single-stage or two-stage sampling plans to conduct
> the inspection and collect the samples using either the \"randomized\"
> or \"stratified\" sample collection procedures described in § 7.3. or
> the procedure in § 7.4.
>
> **(c)** Apply the accuracy requirements for the appropriate sample
> size in Column 4.
>
> **7.2.2. Samples**[]{#__RefHeading___Toc26879965 .anchor}**. \--**
> Refer to Column 2 in Table 1 to determine how many items to select for
> the store type and whether to use the single-stage or two-stage
> sampling plan. You may use either:
>
> **(a) Single-Stage Sample. \--** A single-stage sample is typically
> used for, but is not limited to, stores where a hand-held scanner
> device is available for the inspection; or
>
> **(b) Two-Stage Sample. \--** A two-stage sample saves time. If the
> sample (usually one-half the total sample size) taken in the
> first-stage meets the accuracy requirements specified in Column 4 in
> Table 1, the inspection is complete. However, if the errors in the
> first-stage sample fall within the limits set in Column 4, the
> second-stage of the sample is taken.

**7.3. Sample Collection Procedures (for use with either manual or
automated inspection procedures)**[]{#__RefHeading___Toc26879966
.anchor}**. \--** These sample collection procedures may be used to
conduct either manual or automated inspections with a single-stage or
two-stage sample. That is, you can either use a hand-held scanning
device to verify the price of an item (automated), or you can remove the
items from display and take them to a check-out location to verify the
price of the item (manual) regardless of which sample collection
procedure issued. No sample collection procedure is ideal for all retail
store arrangements. You can modify the procedure to fit each store, but
you should adhere to the sample size and sample collection procedures
described in Table 1. When using any of the procedures, test the store
as a whole unit by taking samples from all parts of the store, or divide
the store into \"areas\" and select samples from several \"areas\"
(e.g., at least 10 areas, or one-third or one-half of the \"areas\").

# Table 1. Samples, Sample Collection, and Accuracy Requirements

+------------+-----------------+----------------+---------------------+
| *          | **Column 2.     | **Column 3.    | **Column 4.         |
| *Column 1. | Samples**       | Sample         | Accuracy            |
| Type of    |                 | Collection     | Requirements (See   |
| Store**    |                 | Procedures**   | Section 10)**       |
+------------+-----------------+----------------+---------------------+
| C          | Two-Stage       | Use Randomized | If 1 error is found |
| onvenience | Sample          | Sample         | in the 25 item      |
| or Any     |                 | Collection in  | sample, test an     |
| Other      | First Stage =   | 7.3.1 or the   | additional 25       |
| Small      | 25 items        | Stratified     | items.              |
| Retail     |                 | Sample         |                     |
| Store      | Second Stage =  | Collection in  | If more than 1      |
|            | 25 items or     | 7.3.2.         | error is found in   |
| Note: For  | more            |                | the 50 item sample, |
| this       |                 | and            | the store fails     |
| procedure, | Total = 50      |                |                     |
| a small    | items or more   | Use the Manual | Note: If more than  |
| store is   |                 | or Automated   | 1 error is found in |
| typically  | or              | Inspection     | the first 25 items  |
| one with 3 |                 | Procedures     | the                 |
| or less    | Single-Stage    |                |                     |
| check-out  | Sample          | Note: test the |                     |
| registers  |                 | store as a     |                     |
|            | 50 items or     | whole unit by  |                     |
|            | more            | taking samples |                     |
|            |                 | from all       |                     |
|            |                 | \"areas\" of   |                     |
|            |                 | the store,     |                     |
|            |                 |                |                     |
|            |                 | or             |                     |
|            |                 |                |                     |
|            |                 | divide the     |                     |
|            |                 | store into     |                     |
|            |                 | \"areas\" and  |                     |
|            |                 | select samples |                     |
|            |                 | from several   |                     |
|            |                 | \"areas\"      |                     |
|            |                 | (e.g., at      |                     |
|            |                 | least 10 or    |                     |
|            |                 | one-third of   |                     |
|            |                 | the \"areas\") |                     |
+------------+-----------------+----------------+---------------------+
| All Other  | Two-Stage       |                | If 1 error is found |
| Retail     | Sample          |                | in the 50 item      |
| Stores     |                 |                | sample, the store   |
|            | First Stage =   |                | passes.             |
|            | 50 items        |                |                     |
|            |                 |                | If 2 errors are     |
|            | Second Stage =  |                | found in the 50     |
|            | 50 items or     |                | item sample, test   |
|            | more            |                | an additional 50    |
|            |                 |                | items.              |
|            | Total = 100     |                |                     |
|            | items or more   |                | If more than 2      |
|            |                 |                | errors are found in |
|            |                 |                | the 100 item        |
|            |                 |                | sample, the store   |
|            |                 |                | fails.              |
|            |                 |                |                     |
|            |                 |                | Note: If more than  |
|            |                 |                | 2 errors are found  |
|            |                 |                | in either stage the |
|            |                 |                | store fails.        |
+------------+-----------------+----------------+---------------------+
|            | Single-Stage    |                | If more than 2      |
|            | Sample          |                | errors are found in |
|            |                 |                | the 100 item sample |
|            | 100 or more     |                | the store fails, or |
|            |                 |                |                     |
|            | items           |                | If more than 100    |
|            |                 |                | items are sampled,  |
|            |                 |                | the error rate      |
|            |                 |                | shall not exceed 2  |
|            |                 |                | percent             |
+------------+-----------------+----------------+---------------------+

***NOTE 1:** These sampling procedures allow flexibility in sample
collection for use in any type or size of store. You can take several
different approaches and select a number of \"areas\" to sample using
the sample sizes in Table 1. For example, to perform a 100‑item
inspection in a department store with 20 \"areas,\" you can either
verify 5 items in an \"area,\" 10 items in each of 10 \"areas,\" or 20
items from each of five \"areas.\"*

***NOTE 2:** The sample sizes used for routine inspections in this
procedure should not be used to estimate the overall accuracy of prices
in a store.*

***NOTE 3:** In some stores, price reductions are not programmed into
the point-of-sale system. Instead, discounts are manually entered by a
sales clerk; however, the sales clerks should have a means of
identifying a sale item. When conducting normal inspections, verify the
price of the sale items by allowing the sales clerk to determine the
price of the item using the store's customary procedures. This will
ensure that the customer receives the correct price regardless of the
location where the check-out occurs.*

> **7.3.1. Randomized Sample Collection** []{#__RefHeading___Toc26879968
> .anchor}**. \--** In \"randomized\" sample collection, all items in an
> \"area\" have an equal chance of being included in the sample. This
> test procedure has several benefits, including: (1) more effective
> coverage and simpler to conduct because you select items by count
> following a systematic pattern throughout the store, and (2) ensures a
> wider range of items are verified, which increases scrutiny;
> therefore, there is greater confidence in the results. With most
> samples, several items will be verified in each \"area\" of the store.
> Since store sizes differ, this number will vary, but samples should be
> taken from a wide variety of items (and merchandise groups) from
> locations throughout the store or \"area.\"
>
> The steps of the randomized sampling collection procedure are as
> follows:
>
> **(a)** Count the number of \"areas\" in the store which have products
> to be verified:
>
> **(1)** Stand-alone counters and displays or whole departments (e.g.,
> bakery or seafood, or \"men's clothing\" or \"sporting goods\"
> department, etc.) are considered and counted as individual \"areas\"
> to be sampled.
>
> **(2)** End‑of‑aisle displays may be considered as a single, distinct
> \"area\" and either verified separately or included as part of one
> side of an aisle.
>
> **(b)** The sample size (e.g., 100 items) is divided by the number of
> \"areas\" to determine the number of items to be sampled from each
> \"area.\" Depending on the number of areas in the store, you may
> calculate a fractional number of items per area. In this case,
> round-off the sample size and select one or two additional items from
> an \"area\" to complete the full sample size of 100 items.
>
> **Example 1. Illustrations of the Randomized Sampling Procedure**
> []{#__RefHeading___Toc26879969 .anchor}
>
> **(a)** Figure 1 illustrates how the randomized sampling procedures
> are used in a food store. This example is based on a 100‑item sample.
> To simplify the selection process, simply divide the store into 4
> major \"areas\" and select samples as follows:
>
> • Select 5 items from all of the shelves and displays in the produce
> section which are grouped as a single \"area,\"

• Select 85 items by choosing 5 items from either side of several of the
13 aisles (e.g., there are 26 rows of shelves from which samples may be
selected. To select 85 items, select 5 items from 17 of the 26 rows of
shelves).

> • Select 5 items from the counters along the back of the store, and
>
> • Select 5 items from the deli-bakery and the cash register areas
> which are grouped as a single \"area.\"
>
> **(b)** Figures 2 and 3 illustrate how the randomized sampling
> procedures may be used in any store. The examples are based on a
> 100‑item sample for stores that have a total of 30 \"areas\" to
> sample. The procedure allows the flexibility needed to adjust the
> sample to fit the store layout. To simplify the selection process, the
> stand-alone displays may be grouped together as an \"area\" to be
> sampled.
>
> The following breakdown of \"areas\" is illustrated in Figure 2, the
> same approach is used in Figure 3. Figure 4 illustrates an example of
> sampling 100 items by selecting 20 items from 5 different areas in a
> department store.
>
> 1 - All shelves and displays in the produce section are grouped as a
> single \"area.\"
>
> 28 - The 13 aisles (26 rows of shelves), the counters along the back
> of the store, and the cash register areas are counted as \"areas.\"
>
> 1 - The \"end-of-aisle\" displays at the front and back of the store
> are grouped as a single \"area.\"
>
> Total \"areas\" - 30
>
> **(a)** To select samples from the entire store, divide 100 by 30 to
> calculate how many \"samples\" to take from each \"area.\" In this
> example, 100 ÷ 30 = 3.3 items per area. Rounding down to 3 items, take
> a total of 90 samples from the different \"areas,\" then select an
> additional one (1) item from each of 10 \"areas\" to obtain a sample
> of 100 items.
>
> **(b)** If you round up to 4 items per area, you take a total of 120
> samples, or
>
> **(c)** you may select 10 items from 10 \"areas.\"

![](media/image1.png){width="4.309722222222222in"
height="3.7840277777777778in"}

**Figure 1. Illustration of the**

**Randomized sampling Procedure**

![](media/image2.png){width="4.490972222222222in" height="3.81875in"}

## Figure 2. Illustration of the Randomized Sampling Procedure

> **d)** Start in any \"area\" in the store at any shelf, rack, or
> display (top, bottom, front, back; anywhere on a circular rack or
> display). Begin with the first, second, or third item and count either
> 5, 10, or 15 items along the shelf (varying the number of items
> counted depending on how many items are available on the shelf) or
> along the aisle. Select the 5th, 10th, or 15th item as appropriate
> (See Figures 5, 6, and 7). Only select one item from each brand or
> product (if they are the same price) from a display that has two or
> more items of the same product size and price displayed side by side.
> You can change the number of items you count off as often as necessary
> during the inspection.
>
> **(e)** Either verify the price with a hand-held scanning device or
> take the item (along with the other items you select) to the check-out
> location to verify the price, keeping count of the items using a hand
> counter or tally sheet. If the price of an item is incorrect, record
> the item\'s name, description, and price along with other information
> (e.g., whether the product is on sale, aisle location so you can
> easily find the items again to verify the error, etc.).
>
> **(f)** From the first item sampled, move down (or up) one shelf to
> the item most directly below (or above) and count 5, 10, or 15 items
> in the same direction and sample the 5th, 10th, or 15th items, as
> appropriate. After the number of items to be verified in each \"area\"
> have been selected, go to the next \"area\" and start on the next
> shelf (either down or up) from where the previous sample was selected,
> count 5, 10, or 15 items and select the appropriate item using the
> count system until the required number of samples is selected. If you
> have sampled an item on the bottom (or top) shelf and have more items
> to test in the \"area,\" simply go up (or down) one shelf. This will
> create a \"zigzag\" trail up and down the display.

***Note:** Randomness can be increased by starting on different shelves
or at the midpoint or rear of an aisle during an inspection, or by
starting at different locations in a store on subsequent inspections.
Always start at a different location on subsequent inspections of a
store. To maintain \"randomness,\" do not search for obvious pricing
errors. If you see pricing errors, have them corrected. The sample
should not include more than one of the same item from the same display.
If an item is out of stock, select the next item.*

> **(g)** This procedure is repeated for all \"areas\" until you
> complete the sample. ^(See\ Notes\ Below)^

***NOTE 1:** Include at least 5-10 Price Look Up (PLU) and store-coded
items in the samples. In food stores, these items do not usually have to
be removed from the produce, bulk foods section, or deli display for use
in this procedure. You can use a hand-held scanner or record the
identity and item price designated at the product sales display of the
items from the different department (produce, bakery, deli), if
available, for price comparison through either the PLU programmed in the
department\'s scale or at the point-of-sale system. Have the PLU entered
in the scale ^(See\ Note\ 2)^ or point-of-sale system (or have
\"store-coded\" items scanned) and record the price, comparing it with
the displayed sale price. Record any errors ^(See\ Note\ 3)^. When
checking \"store-coded\" items from the meat or other departments,
remember that a \"U.P.C. symbol\" on a random weight label is read by a
scanner to obtain the total price and identity. The price is
[not]{.underline} stored in the point-of-sale database, but in the
memory of the prepackaging scale.*

***NOTE 2:** Some scales or point-of-sale systems do not display or
record the unit price associated with the PLU unless a weight is on the
scale. For this type of device, a one‑pound standard (or 1 kg) is placed
on the scale load-receiving element. Some systems automatically deduct
tare, so check to make sure that this does not affect the price
indication.*

***NOTE 3:** When you manually enter PLU codes and find errors, reenter
the PLU number to ensure that the error was not caused by a keying
mistake or that the item was not identified accurately.*

![](media/image3.png){width="5.136111111111111in"
height="3.533333333333333in"}

## Figure 3

**7.3.2. Stratified Sample Collection.** \-- Stratified sample
collection (i.e., selecting samples

from specific merchandise groups) of items on sale, specials, seasonal
items, or items on end-of-aisle displays) is typically used (e.g., if a
store has failed an inspection based on the randomized sample collection
procedures) to focus on specific merchandise groups that appear to have
more errors than others (e.g., you find that many of the errors found in
the randomized sample were in \"advertised specials\" or with
\"discontinued items\"). You can also combine sample collection
procedures by using a \"randomized/stratified\" approach. The
\"stratified\" approach may be used the first time you inspect a store,
in stores that have just implemented scanning, in stores that have high
error rates on particular groups of items in past inspections, or in
responding to consumer complaints involving a particular group of items.

For stratified sample collection, items are randomly selected from
different \"merchandise groups\" in a store. They are tested in the
first-stage of the two-stage manual sampling plan to determine if (1)
any group has more errors than any other and (2) the sample taken in the
first stage meets accuracy requirements. This method should be modified
depending on the marketing practices of the store in which it is used
(e.g., if you are in a department store, there may be fewer groups to
sample from, or the list provided below may not include the types of
groups typically encountered in a hardware superstore). The next example
shows how to conduct a stratified sample and how it is used, but it
should not be the sole basis for sample collection because a specific
list of items does not look at the store as a whole. Focusing on
specific merchandise groups takes time, but this may be necessary when
investigating a complaint or following up on a prior noncompliance.
Select only one item from each brand or product from a display that has
two or more items of the same product, size, and price displayed side by
side if they are the same price.

![](media/image4.png){width="2.657638888888889in"
height="4.857638888888889in"}

**Figure 4. Stratified Sample Collection Figure 5. Randomized Sample
Collection**

**Sample Size:** In this example, a large food store is inspected using
a two-stage sampling plan (50 items/100 total items). The inspection
begins with an initial sample of 50 items (see Column 1. Type of Store
for \"All Other Retail Stores\" and Column 2. Sample Sizes in Table 1).

**Stratified Sample Collection -** Select 50 items from the merchandise
groups listed below (provided as examples only; stores may have other
groups that should be included). This procedure allows you to focus on
specific merchandise groups to determine if errors are indeed occurring
in groups where they are thought to occur most frequently (e.g., sale
and direct delivery items).

#### Example 2. Two-Stage Manual Inspection using the Stratified Sampling Procedure

> If there is an insufficient number of items in any merchandise group,
> or if the group of items is not available, increase the number of
> \"randomized\" items selected from the overall inspection lot to
> obtain a total of 50 items. As marketing practices evolve, these
> groups may change as well. You may substitute \"other\" or new
> merchandise groups for any of those listed below (e.g., you may have
> identified errors in the \"health and beauty aids\" section or on
> \"manager specials\" during a previous inspection, so samples from
> these groups may be substituted for any of the groups listed below).
> Model \"Price Verification Tally Sheets\" in Appendix A are provided
> for your use with the test procedures to keep track of the number of
> items selected.
>
> **First-Stage: 50 items.** Use the \"randomized\" sample collection
> procedures described in 7.3.1. to select the following items. These
> sample collection procedures simplify the inspection process and
> ensure that samples are collected as randomly as possible.
>
> • 25 \"Regular Priced\" items. Select 1 or 2 items at random from
> different shelves on each \"area\" or limit your sampling to shelves
> in one-half the \"areas\" in the store, and
>
> • 25 Items. Select a total of 25 items. Include several items from any
> of the following merchandise groups:
>
> • \"Direct-Store-Delivery (DSD)\" items. If the store allows vendors
> to price DSD items, include those items in the sample.
>
> • \"End-of-Aisle\" or \"Tie-In-Display\" items. This group can include
> both regular and sale priced items.
>
> • \"Advertised Sale\" items. Use the store\'s sales brochure or
> newspaper advertisements to identify sale items.
>
> • \"Special\" items. This includes any item with a reduced price
> (e.g., items on \"special\" including \"cents-off\" or \"percentage
> off\" items, 2-for-the-price-of-1 specials, manager and in-store
> specials, or discontinued items). Items typically discounted on a
> percentage basis include a manufacturer\'s product line, greeting
> cards, magazines, or books.
>
> • \"PLU\" items. This includes both regular and sale priced items
> offered in the produce, bakery, or bulk food departments and over
> scales at the direct sale counters. For direct service departments
> (e.g., produce, deli, specialty meats, etc.), select products at
> random (include some sale or special prices) and enter the code in the
> scale**^\[See\ Note\ 1\]^** to verify that the coded price matches the
> advertised price**^\[See\ Note\ 2\]^**.
>
> • \"Store-coded\" items. This includes items offered in the produce,
> bakery, or meat departments that have labels with the U.P.C. symbol
> generated by scales and printers in the store. For store-coded items,
> scan the item and determine if the total price and identity on the
> label are accurately read by the point-of-sale system. When checking
> \"store-coded\" items from the meat or other departments, remember
> that a \"U.P.C. symbol\" on a random weight label is read by a scanner
> to obtain the total price and identity. The price is [not]{.underline}
> stored in the point-of-sale database.
>
> • \"Other\" items. This category is included to provide flexibility in
> selecting a sample so that \"seasonal\" items, or products unique to
> the store or local market, can be included. Both regular and sale
> priced items can be included in this category.

***NOTE 1:** Some scales or point-of-sale systems do not display or
record the unit price associated with the PLU unless weight is on the
scale. For these devices, a one pound (or 1 kg) standard is placed on
the scale load- receiving element. Some systems automatically deduct
tare, so make sure this does not affect the price indication.*

***NOTE 2:** When a not-on-file item is found, another item is selected
at random to replace it in the sample. A \"not-on-file\" item is not an
error unless you determine (e.g., by conducting a test purchase or by
asking the check-out clerk to determine the price of the item using the
store\'s customary procedures) that the price \"charged\" for the item
is incorrect. If the price determined is not correct, the error is
included in the total.*

![](media/image6.png){width="4.566666666666666in"
height="2.3694444444444445in"}

![](media/image7.png){width="3.99375in" height="2.816666666666667in"}

Identify the item on an inspection report (e.g., record a brief
description, item number, shelf, or advertised price and aisle location.
The aisle location makes it easy to find the product if errors are found
and to reshelve the items). As items are selected, use the \"Price
Verification Tally Sheet,\" or other means, to keep track of the number
of items collected (See Appendix A - Model Forms. The \"Model Price
Verification Reports\" in this proposal were developed with the
assumption that it is only necessary to record information of items
found with price errors, not all items verified. This reduces paperwork
and saves time.) Either use a hand-held scanning device or take the
items to a cash register, verify the prices by scanning the items or
entering a PLU code into the register and printing a receipt.

The prices \"charged\" at the register are then compared to the
advertised price of each item. For large or perishable items, record the
identity, U.P.C. Code, location, and price and manually enter the U.P.C.
number into the register to verify the price. However, this method is
subject to recording and key entry errors.

**Evaluation of Results on First-Stage:**

See Section 9 for guidance on which errors are considered violations:
One error in a 50 item sample is permitted. If not more than one error
is found and verified, the store passes; if 3 items are found in error
in the first 50 items, the store fails and the inspection is complete.

If two errors are found, collect 50 more items using the randomized
sampling procedures and verify a total of 100 items. If errors were
found in any specific merchandise group (or groups) of items (e.g.,
direct-store-delivery items, PLU codes, or specials), the additional 50
items should include items from those merchandise groups.

**Accuracy**

Refer to Column 4 in Table 1. The required accuracy is 98 percent on the
100-item sample (that is, at most two errors are permitted on a 100-item
sample). If more than two errors are found and verified, the store does
not meet the accuracy requirement.

***Notes:** The \"randomized\" and \"stratified\" sample collection
procedures in this section are intended for use in routine inspections
to determine how a store is maintaining price accuracy on all of the
items it offers for sale. If you use these sampling procedures in
routine inspections and uncover a significant number of errors in a
particular merchandise group (e.g., a significant number of the pricing
errors are found with \"advertised sale item\" items), a randomized
sample can be collected entirely within this specific merchandise group.
For example, if the error rate for \"advertised specials\" is higher
than the rate for regular priced items, a more focused inquiry to
determine if there is a significant error rate in this merchandise group
may be justified. If several \"advertised specials\" have been the
subject of consumer complaints, or if they are repeatedly found to be in
error during routine inspections, then a randomized sample can be
limited to the \"advertised specials\" merchandise group. In this case,
a randomized sample (e.g., a 50/100 item two-stage approach) is taken
from all of the \"advertised sale items\" offered for sale in the store
or in a specific \"area.\" The results of this sample are applicable
[only]{.underline} to the \"advertised specials\" group and not to all
items in the store.*

**7.4. Procedures for Test Purchases, Investigation of Consumer
Complaints, and for Verification of Manually Entered Prices**
[]{#__RefHeading___Toc26879972 .anchor}

> **7.4.1. Procedure** []{#__RefHeading___Toc26879973 .anchor}
>
> This procedure may be used to (1) investigate consumer complaints, (2)
> determine if a store has corrected a pricing error after being
> notified that an error occurred, or (3) determine if manually keyed‑in
> prices or PLU codes are accurate.

***Note:** When verifying manual price entries, store management is
typically not notified of the test until the items have been totaled and
the transaction completed.*

> **(a)** Do not alert the clerk to the fact that the test purchase
> procedure is being conducted. Do not ask questions concerning any
> errors that you observe or offer any information if asked the price of
> an item, in cases where the item price is illegible, or where the item
> is not on file.
>
> **(b)** Use the \"randomized\" sampling procedures to select a sample
> of 10-50 items that includes regular and sale priced items, PLU items,
> and advertised specials from various \"areas.\" It is acceptable to
> purchase only one or just a few items if you are investigating a
> complaint on a specific item. Record the name and identity of the
> product, as well as the labeled or advertised price, for each item.
>
> **(c)** Proceed through a check-out as if you were a customer and pay
> for the purchase. Obtain the original sales receipt, and compare the
> price charged with the labeled or advertised price for each item.
> Record the time of day, lane number, and the identity of the checker.
> Before leaving the store, determine if any errors have occurred.
> Identify yourself and inform the store management that a test purchase
> was conducted and report the results. (In many instances, the store
> will credit back all of the items and refund the test purchase money.)
> Record the information on the test report form and determine the cause
> of the error (e.g., operator error, mislabeling, or incorrect price
> sign).
>
> **7.4.2. Alternative Procedure - Consumer
> Complaints**[]{#__RefHeading___Toc26879974 .anchor}**. \--**
> Complaints can be investigated by using any of the test procedures
> described above or by verifying only the price of the item or items
> subject to the complaint. If the complaint is valid, you can limit
> your inspection to the items described in the complaint or you may
> conduct a complete inspection.
>
> **7.4.3. Evaluation of Results**[]{#__RefHeading___Toc26879975
> .anchor}**. \--** The errors for items verified using these procedures
> should be evaluated according to Sections 9 and 10.

**Section 8. Documentation of Findings**[]{#__RefHeading___Toc26879976
.anchor}

Several examples of Model Price Verification Reports are contained in
Appendix A. These forms were developed so that you only have to record
the items found with price errors.

> **(a)** Record errors and provide information on the cause, if
> determined. Indicate if the errors are considered to be violations, if
> stop-sale orders were issued, or if the violation was corrected.
>
> **(b)** Notices of violations or other significant comments (e.g.,
> warnings or violations ordered corrected) should always be included on
> the test form.
>
> **(c)** Cash register receipts on verified items should be retained
> and attached to the inspection report as evidence.
>
> **(d)** Printed advertisements and sales flyers should be retained and
> attached to the inspection report when errors are found in these
> categories.

**Section 9. Evaluation of Inspection
Results**[]{#__RefHeading___Toc26879977 .anchor}

**9.1. Definition of Errors**[]{#__RefHeading___Toc26879978 .anchor}**.
\--** An error found to result from of any of the following causes
**should not** be considered a violation for enforcement purposes:

> **(a)** An intentional undercharge if documentation or confirmation of
> the date and time of the price change is provided at the time of the
> inspection.
>
> **(b)** An error caused by a mistake made in any kind of advertisement
> (e.g., newspaper, printed brochure, or radio or television
> advertisement) if the store has placed a notice adjacent to the item
> indicating that a mistake occurred in the advertisement.
>
> **(c)** An error [obviously]{.underline} caused by a price label that
> is missing or that has fallen off the shelf, or the item or the price
> label or sign has [obviously]{.underline} been relocated by an
> unauthorized person.
>
> **(d)** A \"not-on-file\" item is not an error unless you determine
> that the price \"charged\" for the item is incorrect (e.g., by
> conducting a test purchase or by asking the check-out clerk to
> determine the price of the item using the store\'s documented or
> customary procedures. If the price determined is incorrect, it is
> considered an error.)

***Note:** It is recommended that you work with the store representative
to identify the cause of any error and note the problem/cause on the
report. This may not change your findings but will help to identify
problems related to staff errors, failure to follow through on
established store pricing procedures, data entry errors, or failure of
management to provide correct written data, etc. The supporting
information will help with enforcement decisions as well as in-house
monitoring of product pricing.*

**9.2. Computing Sample Errors**[]{#__RefHeading___Toc26879979
.anchor}**. \--** The following formulas are used to determine sample
error and the overcharge to undercharge ratio:

> **(a)** Adjust the total sample by subtracting any items or errors
> specified in 9.1.
>
> **(b)** To compute the sample error, divide the number of errors by
> the total sample size to obtain the error in percent.
>
> For example: a sample of 100 items is verified; 3 overcharges and 1
> undercharge are found for a total of 4 errors:
>
> 4 ÷ 100 = 4 percent sample error.
>
> **(c)** To compute the ratio of overcharges to undercharges (used on
> large samples and in follow-up activities), total the
> overcharges/undercharges and compare the numbers:
>
> 3 overcharges/1 undercharge = a 3 to 1 ratio.

**Section 10. Accuracy Requirements**[]{#__RefHeading___Toc26879980
.anchor}

**10.1. Accuracy Requirements**[]{#__RefHeading___Toc26879981
.anchor}**. \--** Accuracy information, based on a percentage of errors
found in a sample and the ratio of overcharges to undercharges,
constitutes useful criteria for evaluating the \"pricing integrity\" of
the store. Both overcharges and undercharges should be considered as
errors in taking lower level enforcement actions since (1) either type
of error misrepresents the price of the item; and (2) the occurrence of
any error in a randomized sample [may]{.underline} indicate poor pricing
practices that would result in errors where additional items were
sampled. For higher levels of enforcement [only]{.underline} overcharges
are considered.

**10.2. Accuracy**[]{#__RefHeading___Toc26879982 .anchor}**. \--** See
Column 4 in Table 1. The accuracy requirement for a sample must be 98
percent or higher to \"pass\" a single inspection.

**10.3. Ratio of Overcharges to
Undercharges**[]{#__RefHeading___Toc26879983 .anchor}**. \--** With
large sample sizes, overcharges should not exceed the undercharges. A
high rate of overcharges to undercharges (2 to 1, or 3 to 1) may
indicate systematic problems with a store\'s pricing practices.

***Note:** As the history of store compliance develops, the number of
overcharges and undercharges may be evaluated to determine if systematic
errors or other problems exist. This ratio should be maintained when at
least 10 errors are found over several inspections, or in a single large
sample size (e.g., the results of several 100-item inspections collected
over a period of time or if 1,000 items are sampled in one inspection.)*

**Table 2. Price Errors** - This table shows the percentage of errors in
different sample sizes:

**Percentage of Errors**

**Sample Size**

**No. of**

**Errors**

**Note:** Random pricing errors are to be expected, but the ratio of
overcharges to undercharges will rarely be exactly one to one (e.g., of
10 errors, 5 overcharges and 5 undercharges); the ratio will likely vary
both ways over several inspections. If a store has more overcharges than
undercharges (e.g., 2 to 1, or 3 to 1), it may indicate that the store
is not following good pricing practices, but enough errors must be
present in order to make this determination. (Consider the example of 12
pricing errors consisting of 8 overcharges and 4 undercharges: the ratio
of overcharges to undercharges is 2 to 1. Similarly, 10 pricing errors
consisting of 6 overcharges and 4 undercharges corresponds to a ratio of
1.5 to 1; since all decimal values are truncated to whole numbers, 1.5
is truncated to 1, and the ratio becomes 1 to 1.)

The one‑to‑one ratio should be applied to any sample size if at least 10
errors are present. For example, if 1,000 items are verified and 10
items are found in error, the sample has an accuracy of 99 percent.
However, if 9 of the 10 errors are overcharges (i.e., a ratio of 9
overcharges to 1 undercharge), the store should be considered to have
poor pricing practices or other problems; if 100 items are verified and
a 90 percent accuracy is found, 10 items in error not meeting the
overcharge to undercharge ratio can be used in enforcement action as
evidence of poor pricing practices.

**Section 11. Enforcement Procedures**[]{#__RefHeading___Toc26879984
.anchor}

**11.1. Enforcement Steps** []{#__RefHeading___Toc26879985 .anchor}

> **(a)** Compliance is based on the accuracy found on a sample
> collected according to this procedure.
>
> **(b)** Errors should be corrected immediately, [or]{.underline} if
> the correction cannot be made immediately, a stop-sale order shall be
> issued before you leave the business. If the errors are not corrected
> in your presence, a follow-up inspection may be made later in the day
> or the following day to ensure the store has corrected the error. If a
> store fails to correct the error by that time, higher level
> enforcement action should be taken.
>
> **(c)** Enforcement action for large monetary errors on individual
> items, confirmed overcharges on items verified in response to
> complaints, or errors found on follow-up inspection of items ordered
> corrected, should be taken independently from any sample, giving
> consideration to the magnitude of the violation, corrective action by
> the establishment, and any other relevant information. Action may be
> initiated at any time in the inspection process based on the facts of
> the individual case.
>
> **(d)** Overcharges and undercharges are used to determine lower
> levels of enforcement actions, but higher levels of enforcement action
> (e.g., fines or penalties) are taken **only** on the overcharges found
> in the sample.
>
> (Amended 2001)

***Note:** Many computer systems do not allow for the immediate
correction of errors in the database. Downloading information throughout
the day may not be possible. Therefore, for the purposes of this
section, \"immediate\" correction of errors may entail the removal or
correction of problem signs, manually changing marked prices, or
communicating notice of the corrected price to all applicable stores
through facsimile, e-mail, or any other appropriate medium to ensure
that consumers are charged the correct price.*

**11.2. Model Enforcement Levels** []{#__RefHeading___Toc26879986
.anchor}

*These recommendations do not modify the enforcement policy of any
jurisdiction unless adopted by that jurisdiction.*

> **(a) Ninety-Eight Percent or Higher. \--** If price accuracy is 98
> percent or higher on a sample of 50 or more items, and if overcharges
> do not exceed undercharges on sample sizes of 100 or more items, and
> the store is on a normal inspection frequency:
>
> **(1)** A notice of noncompliance is issued on violations, and the
> store is maintained on a normal inspection frequency, or
>
> **(2)** if the store is on increased inspection frequency, it remains
> on this frequency until inspection results conform to Terms of
> Increased Inspection Frequency.
>
> **(b) Less Than 98 Percent. \--** If price accuracy is less than 98
> percent on a sample of 50 or more items and if overcharges do not
> exceed undercharges on large sample sizes, and the store is on normal
> inspection frequency:
>
> **(1)** A notice of noncompliance is issued and the store is placed on
> an increased inspection frequency.
>
> **(2)** A second inspection should be conducted within 30 business
> days. If the price accuracy then is not 98 percent or higher, a
> warning is issued.
>
> **(3)** A third inspection should be made within 60 business days. If
> the price accuracy is again less than 98 percent, higher level
> enforcement action should be taken.
>
> (Amended 2001)
>
> If the store is on increased inspection frequency, a warning should be
> issued and the store reinspected within 30 business days. If price
> accuracy is less than 98 percent, higher levels of enforcement action
> should be taken.
>
> (Amended 2001)
>
> Examples for the 100-item sample size:

-   If 100 items are verified and 3 overcharges are found in the sample,
    the error rate is 3 percent. In this example, higher levels of
    enforcement action should be taken.

```{=html}
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```
-   If 100 items are verified and 3 overcharges and 2 undercharges are
    found, the error rate on the sample is 5 percent, but overcharges
    are 3 percent. In this example, higher levels of enforcement action
    should be taken.

```{=html}
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```
-   If 100 items are verified and 2 overcharges and 3 undercharges are
    found, the error rate is still 5 percent, but overcharges are only 2
    percent of the sample. In this example, a lower level enforcement
    action would be taken.

> **(c) Terms of Increased Inspection Frequency. \--** When a store is
> on increased inspection frequency, it shall remain at that frequency
> until two consecutive inspections reveal an accuracy of 98 percent or
> higher.
>
> **(d) Higher Levels of Enforcement Action. \--** Overcharges and
> undercharges are used to determine lower levels of enforcement
> actions, but higher levels of enforcement action (e.g., fines or
> penalties) are taken **only** on overcharges. A store\'s history of
> error rates, the time it takes a store to correct the errors, the
> difference in inaccuracy rates found between \"regular\" and \"sale\"
> priced items, the ratio of overcharges to undercharges, a record of
> valid consumer complaints, and the magnitude of the error(s) may be
> used to support enforcement action.

**Section 12. Post-Inspection Tasks**[]{#__RefHeading___Toc26879987
.anchor}

**(a)** You should meet with the store representative to review your
findings. Have the inspection report completed prior to the meeting and
be prepared to briefly summarize your findings and recommended actions,
and provide a copy to the store representative.

**(b)** Return borrowed safety, sanitation, and/or test equipment.

**(c)** If you removed items from display, ensure that the items are
returned to their proper location on the store shelves unless the
representative requests to have the items returned by a store employee,
which is permitted.

**(d)** Advise the representative of your findings. Explain any
violations and errors. Explain any orders issued and be sure the
individual acknowledges understanding of what corrective action is
expected, if any.

**(e)** If necessary, describe the implications of the inspection
results and advise the store of the action that you intend to take. If
an increased inspection frequency is called for due to the accuracy
level found during the inspection, advise the firm that reinspections
will be made, but do not indicate when they may occur.

**Section 13. Supervisory Activities**[]{#__RefHeading___Toc26879988
.anchor}

**13.1. Baseline Surveys** []{#__RefHeading___Toc26879989 .anchor}**.
\--** Price verification programs require management support so that the
program\'s objectives and desired benefits can be incorporated into the
enforcement agency\'s work plans and budget. Surveys to measure pre- and
post- implementation accuracy should be used to establish a base from
which to measure whether a cost/benefit has been obtained.

**13.2. Follow-up Inspections** []{#__RefHeading___Toc26879990
.anchor}**. \--** Inspections that reveal errors exceeding the accuracy
requirements recommended above must include follow-up action to ensure
that the store fulfills it obligations regarding accurate prices.

**13.3. Management Information Systems** []{#__RefHeading___Toc26879991
.anchor}**. \--** To ensure adequate control and follow-up, a database
should be established in each jurisdiction to provide information on
every store, including:

> **For stores:**
>
>  store name
>
>  address
>
>  telephone
>
>  type of store
>
>  frequency of inspection
>
>  sample size
>
>  accuracy
>
>  number of overcharges
>
>  dollar value of overcharges
>
>  number of undercharges
>
>  dollar value of undercharges
>
>  average money value of undercharges
>
>  ratio of overcharges to undercharges
>
> **For program review:**
>
>  total number of undercharges
>
>  total dollar value of undercharges
>
>  average dollar value of undercharges
>
>  percent undercharges of total
>
>  ratio of overcharges to undercharges
>
>  total error in percent
>
>  accuracy levels of stores
>
>  store type
>
>  total stores tested
>
>  total stores tested (each type)
>
>  total items tested
>
>  total number of overcharges
>
>  total dollar value of overcharges
>
>  average dollar value of overcharges
>
>  percent of overcharges of total

**Section 14. Appendices**[]{#__RefHeading___Toc26879992 .anchor}

**Appendix A - Model Forms**

These models can be used to develop formal report forms, or they can be
copied and used as worksheets for conducting inspections:

> **(a)** Sample Tally Sheets: worksheets that can be used to help you
> keep track of the number of items verified. They provide spaces to
> record the item\'s display location (e.g., aisle or department), a
> description of the item, and the shelf or advertised price. The
> worksheets are set up for the stratified sample collection described
> above to help identify the types of products to select.
>
> **(b)** Model Inspection Form I: this can be used to document
> violations and record findings. A completed sample is provided.
>
> **(c)** Model Inspection Form II: this can be used in stores where a
> hand-held scanning device is not available, or when it is inconvenient
> to take items (e.g., a large ladder in a hardware store) to a
> check-out register to verify the price. You can record an identity,
> the U.P.C. or PLU code, and advertised price so that you can manually
> enter the codes to verify the price. The form can also be used to
> record findings. A completed sample is provided.