5 Secrets Dick’s Sporting Goods Doesn’t Want You to Know

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Whether you’re in the market for an updated set of fishing gear, more workout apparel, or just a pair of really comfortable shoes for walking around town, Dick’s Sporting Goods is a go-to resource for shoppers searching for anything even vaguely athletic. The mall mainstay has grown from a small store founded in the late 1940s to become the largest retailer of its kind in the U.S. today, with more than 800 locations nationwide. But even if you’re a regular customer, there’s still probably a lot you don’t know about the iconic chain. Read on for the secrets Dick’s Sporting Goods doesn’t want you to know.

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Most large companies know just how valuable your contact information can be. That’s why experts say it’s essential to use this to your advantage the next time you’re planning a big online purchase at Dick’s Sporting Goods by signing up for their email list. It’s an easy way to score a special one-time discount—if you time it right.

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Online shopping can make it easy to get the items you need without taking time out of your busy schedule to run to the store. Unfortunately, that convenience can come at a cost unless you’re careful.

“Free shipping at Dick’s Sporting Goods isn’t exactly free since you have to spend at least $65: Otherwise, you will get charged for delivery,” warns consumer expert Andrea Woroch .

However, you don’t need to spend more just to expedite the shopping process. “Instead, choose the ship-to-store option and curbside pick-up to avoid any delivery fees. Keep in mind, Scorecard loyalty members get a lower threshold offer with free shipping for $49 or more, but you must be logged in to your account to qualify.”

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Besides getting the items you need immediately, shopping on-site can come with a few other benefits. In the case of Dick’s Sporting Goods, experts say you can score some unexpected discounts whenever you spend at one of their brick-and-mortar locations. That’s why it’s important to keep that slip of paper and scan it for any potential savings.

“There’s a chance that when you make an in-store purchase, you’ll find a coupon at the bottom of your receipt,” says Ramhold. “It may be $20 off $100 or so, and will be restricted to a short window, so be sure to take note if you’re planning to use it.”

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In the era of seemingly endless spam texts, the last thing most people want is another random message finding its way to their phone. But similar to joining the store’s email list, there’s one easy way to score a significant discount for minimal effort.

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Even the most prominent traditional retailers know they’re at a disadvantage when it comes to price competition with e-commerce. Shoppers today can quickly scan the internet for whichever merchant has the lowest price and give them their business. But if you’re looking to stay loyal to Dick’s Sporting Goods, you can still get the best deal without having to go elsewhere.

“Always compare prices before buying anything online or in-store at Dick’s Sporting Goods because they will match the price. They have a very generous price-matching policy that few people know about!” says Woroch.