One of my biggest pet peeves is when you pick up an item in a store, stand in line (even longer if someone is paying with a check), and then discover at the register that the item is much more expensive than advertised. I always check my receipts after making a purchase and often find errors, nearly always in the store’s favor.

To address this issue, some countries have implemented a scanning code of practice to hold retailers accountable. For instance, in Canada, if an item under $10 scans at a higher price than advertised, you get it for free. This policy encourages retailers to update their systems promptly. Without such practices, you might get your receipt corrected only to find the same error on your next visit.

My habit of double-checking receipts drives my boyfriend crazy, especially when it takes me 10 minutes to get my change back because I feel cheated. Others share this sentiment too, and I appreciate not feeling alone in this practice. When you choose to buy an item, there’s an implicit agreement to pay the price shown, not whatever price the store’s computer decides.

In Guatemala, the local Walmart-run supermarket is notorious for long lines and few cashiers. It’s common to see at least five people queuing behind you, and price discrepancies at the register add to the frustration. If an item scans incorrectly, you’re in for a wait. The cashier will call for another employee to verify the price and a manager to approve the correction. Even if you don’t want the item anymore, you still have to wait for the manager. This process can take a while, but people here seem to be more patient about it.

After returning to France, I noticed some shops finally implemented a scanning code of practice, though it varies by store. In some cases, if there were people waiting, the cashier might give you the item for free if it didn’t scan correctly, or they’d ask you what you thought the price was and adjust it if reasonable.

The Simply Market chain in France has adopted a comprehensive scanning code of practice. Although I don’t usually shop there because there isn’t one near my mom’s place, I do go there when visiting my brother. This store offers to refund you ten times the price difference if you find the same item cheaper elsewhere. The procedure to claim money back can be tedious, involving filling out forms and more, but it ensures prices are corrected quickly.

Simply Market also offers to reimburse you the price difference if you find the same item cheaper at a nearby store. This encourages shoppers to choose Simply Market over others, knowing that inflated prices won’t last long.

Would you change your shopping habits if a supermarket had a scanning code of practice and another didn’t?