Sam's Club Clearance Deals: Ultimate Savings Guide
For budget-savvy shoppers ready to buy, Sam’s Club clearance sales are a fast path to big, immediate savings.
Known for bulk deals and member-only pricing, Sam’s Club also runs frequent clearance events with deep markdowns across electronics, home goods, groceries, and seasonal items—helping you stretch your budget without sacrificing quality.This buyer-ready guide explains how clearance works, typical prices you’ll pay, what drives costs, how to compare options side-by-side, and the exact questions to ask before you check out.
What Are Sam’s Club Clearance Sales?
Clearance items are products being phased out, overstocked, discontinued sizes/colors, or seasonal closeouts. They’re discounted to move quickly and make room for new inventory.
Quantities are limited and restocks are rare, so if the price and specs fit your needs, act quickly—popular items can sell out the same day.
Where to Find Clearance Deals
In-Store:
Look for special signage, back-of-club sections, and endcaps. Price tags ending in “.01” or “.91” often indicate markdowns or manager specials. Use Scan & Go to verify the latest price at the shelf, and check packaging for open-box or missing accessories before you buy.
Online:
Browse the “Clearance” section by category, price, or club availability. Filter for “Pickup” to avoid shipping fees, and watch for “limited stock” notices. Add items to cart to see final pricing; shipping, delivery, or installation fees may apply to large or heavy items.
What You’ll Find on Clearance
Clearance stock varies, but common categories include:
- Electronics: TVs, laptops, headphones, and smart devices
- Furniture & Home Decor: Sectionals, patio sets, rugs, and lighting
- Appliances: Microwaves, coffee makers, and vacuums
- Groceries & Snacks: Bulk items nearing expiration or seasonal items
- Clothing: Off-season fashion, outerwear, and shoes
- Seasonal Items: Holiday decorations, summer gear, or back-to-school supplies
These markdowns can reach 30% to 70% off the original price.
Typical Prices and Savings at a Glance
- TVs (32–75"): $120–$900 on clearance (often 30%–60% off)
- Laptops/Chromebooks: $179–$699 depending on specs and brand
- Headphones/Earbuds: $25–$249, with premium brands trending 20%–50% off
- Small Appliances (air fryers, mixers, coffee makers): $15–$199
- Vacuums/Robot Vacuums: $79–$399
- Furniture (sofas, dining, patio sets): $199–$1,499+
- Mattresses: $199–$1,199 depending on size and type
- Outdoor & Patio: $149–$1,299 post-season
- Clothing & Footwear: $5–$40 per piece
- Groceries & Seasonal: typically 10%–50% off; deepest cuts near season end or date proximity
Membership & extra costs to factor in:
- Membership: Club ~$50/year; Plus ~$110/year
- Shipping/Delivery: $0–$50+ depending on weight, location, and membership benefits
- Installation/Setup (large items): $0–$150+ if offered
- Extended Protection Plans: $20–$200+ by category and coverage length
- Haul-away/Disposal (appliances/mattresses): $0–$50+ where available
What Affects Final Price
- Timing & seasonality: Biggest drops often happen right after peak seasons (holidays, back-to-school, patio season).
- Inventory level: Heavier overstock typically means deeper discounts.
- Model year/spec changes: Prior-year models drop fastest when replacements arrive.
- Condition: New vs. open-box vs. damaged packaging affects price and return eligibility.
- Club location: Prices and availability vary by store; nearby clubs may differ.
- Fees & add-ons: Shipping, delivery, installation, and protection plans increase the out-the-door cost.
- Membership tier: Plus members may get free shipping or earlier access on select items.
How to Compare Deals (Fast)
- Check total out-the-door price: Item cost + taxes + shipping/delivery + protection plan (if needed).
- Compare specs to needs: Prioritize the 2–3 features that matter most (size, capacity, processor, battery life, etc.).
- Verify model year: Newer models can be worth a slightly higher price if they add critical features.
- Assess condition & accessories: Confirm all parts are included; factor replacement costs if not.
- Return window & warranty: Know the category’s return policy and manufacturer coverage before buying.
- Unit economics: For groceries and consumables, compare price-per-unit across brands and sizes.
- Cross-shop quickly: Check at least 2 competitors (e.g., Walmart, Amazon, Costco) for similar specs and total cost.
- Availability risk: If stock is low and the deal fits your needs and budget, buy now—clearance rarely returns.
Tips for Scoring the Best Clearance Deals
- Visit Early and Often: Shop early in the day and mid-week for the freshest inventory.
- Use the App: Check local stock, scan for real-time pricing, and track items on your list.
- Check Multiple Locations: Prices and inventory vary by club—nearby stores can have different clearance.
- Stack Savings: Combine clearance with Sam’s Cash rewards and limited-time Instant Savings when eligible.
- Ask Associates: Ask when new markdowns usually hit and if more units will move to clearance soon.
- Choose Pickup to Lock the Price: Reserve online with free club pickup to secure limited-stock items.
- Inspect Before You Leave: For open-box or large items, verify condition and parts at pickup.
10 Questions to Ask Before You Buy
- Is this the lowest recent price, and how long has it been on clearance?
- What is the return window for this category and condition (new vs. open-box)?
- Does the manufacturer warranty still apply, and can I purchase extended coverage?
- Are all accessories, parts, and manuals included?
- What are the shipping, delivery, installation, or haul-away fees (if any)?
- Is this the current model year, and what features differ from the newer model?
- How many units are left, and is the price likely to drop again soon?
- Can I choose free club pickup to avoid shipping costs and secure stock?
- What is the price-per-unit compared to alternatives (for bulk items)?
- How does this total cost compare to at least two other retailers for similar specs?
Final Thoughts
Sam’s Club clearance sales can deliver standout value when you act decisively. Decide your must-have features, check total out-the-door cost, compare two alternatives, and buy or reserve for pickup while stock lasts. A focused plan turns clearance browsing into real savings today.