“Off-Price” stores like TJ Maxx are Bargain Meccas, full of “hidden treasures” just waiting to be discovered. Here’s some tips for shopping the store and becoming a “Maxxinista”.

1.    Shop the Weekdays to Avoid the Rush.  Trucks arrive 3-5 days during the week, meaning the selection changes regularly. Avoid the weekend rush by shopping during the week day (early morning or late evenings work best)

2.    Don’t worry about irregular items. Over 95% of merchandise at stores like TJ Maxx is first quality, meaning less than 5% is “irregular”—and those aren’t what you think. Irregular doesn’t always mean “defective” items, but rather items with irregularities unnoticeable to the customer (like a manufacturer cranked out an order of pumps in patent instead of regular leather)

3.    Go in with an open mind.  If you’re looking for something specific, like say a brown herringbone suit from Ralph Lauren, your chances of finding it are pretty slim. However, if you take a generalist approach to shopping at these stores, go in looking for a nice suit for work, your chances of what you’re looking for is pretty good.

4.    Be self-sufficient. Don’t expect a lot of assistance on the floor—the store is primarily a self-navigating experience. That’s not to say no one will help you—just don’t expect a personal shopper at your elbow.

5.    Look for Designers.  I just found a pair of Jimmy Choo Fall 2009 Botties at TJ Maxx for 50% off (these booties are currently being sold in Bergdorf for full price).  TJ Maxx buyers are out there making designer purchases more than 40 times a year, bringing more than 10,000 new items to the store weekly.