A HOME Depot customer has threatened to shop at a rival chain following a horror in-store experience.

But problems started after she had completed her transaction.

"After I did self-checkout, the exit stopped my cart," she claimed.

Patricia claimed that a staffer had to unlock her cart digitally.

But the shopper was less than impressed by what had unfolded by the exit door.

Shoppers have lashed out at grocery chains after suffering similar in-store experiences.

Carts come with locking technology fitted in a bid to stop theft.

However, shoppers who have gone through the process and paid for items have been inadvertently involved in mishaps.

In July, The U.S. Sun reported how a Kroger shopper's cart came to a sudden halt when locking technology kicked into action.

The technology activated even though he paid for his items, which included three six-pack cans of soda.

And, another customer said she had to scurry out of a store simply because her cart wouldn't budge.

Hannah Riffey picked up six bottles of wine at a 25% discount from a Pay Less store.

The items were not in carrier bags, and her cart suddenly stopped, according to a post she shared on Facebook.

Riffey later revealed she was told the cart had a digital sensor on it and said the ordeal justified why she gets groceries delivered.

Locking technology is just one anti-theft measure that retailers have rolled out.

Shoppers have revealed they felt embarrassed when their cart comes to a sudden halt.

The U.S. Sun previously reported that some felt singled out and were aggrieved that retail bosses thought they had stolen items.

Other anti-theft tactics include receipt checks, signage, and policies that limit items that can be scanned at self-checkouts.

Execs at some chains have also rolled out policies that limit what can be brought into stores.

The retailer Giant caused a stir earlier this year when chiefs announced that certain bags, including duffels and suitcases, were banned.