Sanderlings are characteristicly seen running at shore's edges with rapidly moving feet.
In winter, the Sanderling (usually) has a black patch in the shoulder which lacks with Western Sandpiper (Calidris mauri).
Sanderling (Calidris alba), Semipalmated Sandpipers (Calidris pusilla), Western Sandpipers (Calidris mauri) and Least Sandpipers (Calidris minutilla) all occur in the US and can easily be confused with each other, especially in winter.
Least Sandpiper, however, has greenish-yellow legs while the others have black legs.
A recently (2013) discovered reliable field mark is that Sanderling (and Least Sandpiper) has a distinguised gape notch ("hook" or "line" at the base of the bill), in all plumages.
Semipalmated and Western Sandpipers don’t really show that gape notch. 
Most field guides don't mention this feature.

Bolivar Peninsula, Texas, USA, 28 October 2006