Yes, there is an art to it. Here are the expert tips on how to always pick the fastest supermarket checkout line:
If you’ve only got a few items and self-checkout is available, use it:
Skip the do-it-yourself line if you’ve got a lot of produce or a full cart, however. You’ll just end up making things more difficult for yourself.
Avoid the register with the flashing light:
Even if it’s the shortest line, don’t get in it. The light means the cashier is waiting for assistance and it could take a lot longer than waiting in the longest line.
Stay away from the cashier who is chatting with customers:
A friendly employee is wonderful ... if you aren’t in a rush. Talking takes longer.
Get in line behind other customers moving quickly:
If you see someone unloading their basket quickly and efficiently, that’s who you want to get behind.
Don’t get in line behind people with a lot of produce:
Cashiers have to weigh and manually put the serial number of produce into the register, which takes more time.
Place your items on the belt conveniently for bagging:
If the frozen and refrigerated items are together, then the cashier can easily put items in bags as he or she scans
(Today)