I've been using self check out lanes for months at my grocery store unaware they're 10 items or less
Has that had any impact on your finances?
I got tired of checking the prices of every single product I've got at the end.
It's understandable that you were unaware of the item limit in the self-checkout lane without a clear sign posted. Now that you are aware of the item limit, you should avoid that lane if you have more than 10 items. This will be considerate of the people waiting in line behind you.
I counted every item but it takes work, I'm lazy and there is always a long line at the regular checkout.
I understand the frustration with waiting in a long line but not counting the items is no excuse. All you have to do is count until ten to see if you have more than or enough.