Self-Checkout System

In self-checkout systems, the customer is permitted to scan the barcodes on their own items, and manually identify items such as fruits and vegetables (usually with a touchscreen display), which are then weighed where applicable, and place the items into a bagging area. The weight observed in the bagging area is verified against previously stored information to ensure that the correct item is bagged, allowing the customer to proceed only if the observed and expected weights match.[4]

In some self-checkout systems, rather than weighing items in the bagging area, a conveyor belt is provided to move items from the barcode scanner to the bagging area. In such a system, the item is verified while it is on the conveyor belt.

There is normally an attendant watching over several self checkout machines, to provide assistance, prevent theft through exploitation of the machines' weaknesses, and to enforce payment. Attendant assistance is also required for the purchase of age-restricted items.

Payment on these machines can be accepted by various methods; card via EFTPOS, Credit Card, cash via coin slot and bank note scanner, and in-store gift cards where applicable. Most coupons also have barcodes and can be scanned the same way that items are scanned.