Expresskasse

Expresskasse is a term used in German-speaking retail to designate a checkout lane intended for small purchases with a limited number of items. The main purpose is to shorten waiting times by streamlining transactions for customers who buy only a few articles. In stores, express lanes are usually clearly signposted and separated from regular tills.

Typical rules include a cap on the number of items, commonly in the range of up to 10 to 20 items. Some items may be excluded (such as bulky goods or age-restricted products in certain jurisdictions), and price checks or coupon use can be restricted at express lanes. Expresskassen are usually staffed by cashiers, though many retailers also offer self-checkout or mobile checkout options adjacent to or within the express area.

Payment methods at Expresskassen typically include cash and card payments, with contactless and mobile wallet options increasingly common. A nearby bagging area is often provided to speed the process. The goal is to reduce queue length and improve throughput during busy periods, while inevitably prioritizing small purchases over larger ones.

The concept and its rules vary by retailer and country; in some markets the term “express” or “Schnellkasse” is used interchangeably with similar concepts. Expresskassen are part of broader retail checkout strategies aimed at speeding transactions and improving customer flow.