As an avid Pokémon card collector, I’ve experienced firsthand the frustration of scalpers swooping in during restocks at Target and other retailers. Scalpers often buy out large quantities of cards the moment they’re available, making it difficult for genuine collectors to acquire sought-after items. This not only affects availability but can also inflate prices on secondary markets. One way to improve your chances is to stay informed about restock dates and times by following official retailer announcements and community groups dedicated to Pokémon card trading. Arriving early helps, but given the high popularity, it’s also useful to network with other collectors who may alert you to upcoming restocks. Additionally, some Target locations have been experimenting with measures such as purchase limits or online-only restocks to discourage scalping, which is a positive development for the community. Personally, I’ve found success by monitoring both in-store and online restock opportunities, as well as considering alternative retailers besides Target. Ultimately, while scalping can be a challenge, staying proactive and connected to the Pokémon community can greatly increase your chances of snagging those valuable restock cards without paying inflated prices.