Key facts
- Prices fluctuated significantly in online shopping carts at three major retailers over several weeks.
- Dynamic pricing makes it difficult for consumers to determine the best time to buy.
A review by CBS California Investigates examined online shopping carts from three randomly selected major retailers. The investigation found that prices for items changed considerably over a period of weeks. This practice of dynamic pricing, where prices adjust based on consumer behavior and market demand, makes it challenging for shoppers to ascertain the optimal time to make a purchase and secure the lowest price.