People are just realizing the secret color codes on T.J. Maxx items that tell you if something is really a bargain

TJ Maxx customers are only now realizing how they can tell by the color of the price tag whether an item is a bargain.

According to an anonymous employee, even the most seasoned shoppers are missing out on the best deals if they aren’t aware of this detail.

Although the colors of the stickered price tags appear random, the employee said GOBanking Ratesthey actually follow a very specific color code.

A stickerless white label means the item is still at its original non-sale price, so you may want to wait to see if the price drops even further.

“Red stickers mean the item has been discounted but could continue to decrease,” they said.

“A yellow sticker means it has reached the latest, lowest price we offer for that product.

“If you ever see a red and yellow sticker on anything, you’re getting the best savings possible,” she added.

In addition to the color code, the employee also revealed other shopping hacks to help Americans get the best deals at TJ Maxx.

“There are so many opportunities to save even more than most consumers don’t know,” the employee told the outlet.

“We almost give away merchandise sometimes, but only to customers who understand when and how to strike.”

Shoppers should beware of any damage to an item, no matter how minor, which means they can ask for an additional discount.

This could be broken dishes, worn-out furniture or a piece of clothing with a hole in it.

“We have the right to give customers a nice percentage discount at the checkout, only if they ask politely,” they said.

‘We’d rather give you that extra discount than let those items sit around gathering dust forever.’

Weekday mornings are the best time to find bargains, she added.

‘The weekends are extremely busy, so we release new things during the week. And if you need to pick a time, join us in the late morning and early afternoon for the latest deals.”

Even the most seasoned shoppers may be missing out on the best deals, according to an anonymous employee

Shoppers should beware of any damage to an item, no matter how minor, which means they can ask for an additional discount at TJ Maxx

When it comes to the best time of year to shop in-store, the employee recommended going right before the major holidays.

Twice a year before Memorial Day and Christmas, workers clear out existing merchandise to make room for the new season’s products.

And when stores try to clear out unsold items, consumers can find the biggest discounts.

When products are placed on pallets or rolling racks, staffers try to get the items out the door at any cost, they said.

“Those pieces cost next to nothing – in some cases 80 percent off or more – before we donate what’s left in a few days,” they told GOBankingRates.

It’s also best to go to your local TJ Maxx store in person, the anonymous employee added, because many items never make it to the website.