In summary, the ratings of perceived exertions identified problems with the ‘standard’ checkout. OWAS showed that there were more postural loads associated with the ‘short’ and ‘standard’ checkouts than with the ‘modified’ checkout. No significant differences between the checkouts were found when heart rate was used as a measure of physiological load. In comparing productivity, the ‘short’ checkout had the longest mean times to pack and to transfer bags but it took up the least floorspace. The ‘modified’ and ‘standard’ checkouts were rated equal first choice by the subjects.