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

1 | Sign up for emails before your next big online purchase.

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.

"Doing so will mean you'll save 10 percent on your next trip, but you'll have to use it within a week, so don't sign up until you know you're getting ready to shop," says Julie Ramhold, consumer analyst with DealNews.com. "Afterward, Dick's will often send coupons to take percentages off single items or something similar, but it's important to remember that certain brands may be excluded, and you won't necessarily be able to stack it with other coupons."

2 | There's a way around shipping charges.

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 expertAndrea 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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3 | Make sure to look over your receipt.

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."

4 | Opt-in to the company's text messages.

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.

"If you don't mind handing out your phone number, you can sign up for texts to receive $20 off a $100 online purchase," says Ramhold. "Note that signing up for this means you'll receive other communications as well, including special offers, news about in-store events, and even new product drops. The good news is if it gets to be too much, you can always text 'STOP' to be taken off the list."

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5 | Do your research on pricing before you buy.

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.