If you're going to check with a box store ask for their top alignment guy. Some of the shops I've worked for we shared alignment duty, but other shops we had the alignment tech, and that's all he did. Personally, that's the kind of shop I preferred, simply because it's that guy who knows the equipment in and out who can compensate for sticking plates, a wrack which is slightly out of level, etc. (been there, done that.) This is especially important for the older systems which used strings to tie the heads together or the older laser systems. A guy who can compensate for the slight irregularities is someone who knows his stuff. Ask to talk to that guy.
If you're looking at customizing the specs on the alignment, like throwing in a a little extra camber, just be aware that some of the box stores aren't willing to do this as it means increased tire wear and they like to keep things within factory specs so a customer doesn't come back b****ing that the tires are worn. So ask some questions.
If you take it to a shop ask for print outs of before and after. Look at the prints to make sure both sides are in where you want them. Some guys will get it to the green and lock it down, even if the measurements aren't the same side to side. Some of the box stores don't allow the customers to be in the service area. Ask about that, too.
If you're going to customize your specs ask them if they mind if it takes a while. Test drive it, get a feel for it. If it's not where you want it, then do it again. It might take a while and you might have to pay more, but make sure they know what you want right off the bat and have an understanding that you're not a pain in the *** customer, but a good one, who knows what he wants and is willing to communicate it. If they think you're a pain in the ***, then beware of what you get! So it's important to have good communication right up front with your desires.
