How to use self-checkout — step by step
Self-checkout lets you scan, bag, and pay for your own items at the store. This plain-language guide walks through every step — including how to pay with Walmart Pay — so you can practice at home and feel ready when you go.
The 8 steps of self-checkout
Walk up and start the order
Approach an open self-checkout lane (look for a green light). Tap 'Start' or 'English' on the screen, then place your basket or cart on the bagging area shelf.
Scan each item's barcode
Find the barcode (the black-and-white stripes) on each item and hold it under the red scanner light until you hear a beep. Place the item in the bagging area after each beep.
Weigh fresh produce
For fruit, vegetables, or bakery items without a barcode, tap 'Look up item', search by name (for example 'bananas'), set the item on the scale, and confirm the weight.
Use coupons or a member code
If you have a paper coupon, scan it like a regular item. For a store loyalty number, tap the loyalty button and type your phone number on the keypad.
Tap 'Pay' when you are done
Double-check the screen for the total. Tap 'Pay now' or 'Finish & pay' to move to the payment screen.
Choose how to pay
Pick a payment option: credit or debit card, cash, EBT/SNAP, gift card, or a mobile wallet like Walmart Pay, Apple Pay, or Google Pay.
Pay with Walmart Pay (Walmart only)
Open the Walmart app, tap 'Services', then 'Walmart Pay'. The app turns on your camera — point it at the QR code on the self-checkout screen. The app sends your payment and emails the receipt.
Take your receipt and items
Wait for the screen to say 'Thank you'. Tap 'Print receipt' or 'Email receipt'. Gather your bags from the bagging area and leave the lane open for the next shopper.
Helpful tips
- If a red light flashes or the screen says 'Please wait for assistance', stay at the lane — an employee will come over with a key.
- If an item will not scan, type the numbers under the barcode by hand on the keypad.
- It is okay to ask the attendant for help at any step. Self-checkout attendants are there to help shoppers.
- Bring your own bags if you want to — set them in the bagging area before you start scanning.
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