Browsing the shelves at Costco can be a great time to load up on yummy food and treats at great prices. Of course, behind every business, there are always tips and tricks that should be used to make the most out of your experience. There are a ton of secrets that every dedicated shopper needs to know before stepping into the wholesaler, so we’ve got you covered.
Here are Things That Every Costco Shopper Should Know.
1. Share Your Membership Fee
The best way to instantly save at Costco is by splitting the upfront cost of a membership with a friend or family member who lives in the same household as you. This might seem like a no-brainer but this savings often goes overlooked amongst roommates.
2. Product Selections Vary by Store
No two Costco stores are identical. While the size and layout of stores may be similar, there are differences amongst the product assortments at various Costco locations. Therefore, if you see a new item (especially on an aisle end cap), make sure to grab it because there’s no guarantee that it’ll be available at another store. Pro tip: There are some amazing beauty brands that you can find discounted too.
3. Shop Kirkland Signature Products
Kirkland Signature is Costco’s private label brand. The quality of Kirkland brand items is pretty awesome, with Costco guaranteeing that products are at par or above the quality level of national brands, but for a lesser price. It’s a great idea for a gift – amazing quality yet reasonably priced.
4. Costco Concierge
Costco members can take advantage of free 24/7 tech support and an extended two-year warranty on electronics like televisions, projectors, major appliances, and computers (excluding tablets,) from the date of purchase with Costco Concierge Services. Who knew?
5. The Best Return Policy Ever
While Costco’s return policy clearly outlines the refund deadlines for items like electronics, installation services, and jewelry; the terms are much more flexible when it comes to returning all other items. Therefore, if you’re unsatisfied with a product, Costco has you covered. All of its purchase information is attached to your membership so that you can easily exchange or refund an item even without your original receipt. Gifts can be returned! Hurray!
6. The Best Times to Shop
As a Costco shopper, you need to know about the best time to shop. You’d be crazy if you expected to drive into a Costco parking lot with ease on a Sunday morning and comfortably find a free shopping cart. Although it’s inconvenient for most, the best times to shop at Costco are weekday mornings and early afternoons.
7. So Many Samples!
In the event that you do head to Costco on a weekend, be sure to take advantage of the yummy sample stations set up all along the aisles and in the bakery department, at some locations. Although, this definitely depends on whether there are restrictions set in place for the pandemic.
8. Costco Services
We bet that there’s A TON of services you didn’t realize Costco had – many of which are very beneficial to already existing and aspiring small business owners. Use your Costco membership to purchase discounted services such as logo designs and courier deliveries.
9. Online Shopping
Many Costco members don’t realize that they can access all of the savings perks they are used to, online at Costco.ca. While you won’t be able to order perishable items, you can certainly shop for everything from diamond earrings to gift certificates, all of which already include shipping and handling in the price so there are no additional fees.
10. Not a Costco Member?
Have someone else do the shopping for you but still reap the cost savings of a Costco membership. Toronto residents can benefit from a great delivery service that will take the ease out of Costco shopping while still delivering the club pack savings!
11. Missed A Sale On An Item You Bought? No Problem
Now, this is something that every Costco shopper needs to know! Even though Costco may not price match, it will however honour its own sale prices. If you purchased an item and then noticed it had a price cut within the 30 days of purchase, you can put in a request online to get the difference refunded.
12. Items Are Moved Around On Purpose
If you go into Costco and notice that your fave snack is always getting moved around, well that’s actually on purpose. Costco places inventory in different spots to create a “treasure hunt,” because they know that the more time you spend browsing the shelves, the more likely you’ll purchase other items. Keep this in mind if you notice this is happening to you!
13. Location, Location, Location
When entering Costco, only shop the front items if it’s something you really need or want because those tend to have the highest mark-up. The bargains that you’re searching for are always in the middle of the store or near the back.
14. Price Tags Have A Special meaning
Next time you head out to the wholesaler, keep an eye out for the prices. If the price ends in .97 it could mean that this item is on clearance. If it ends in .88 or .00 it means that it’s either a manager discount (which you should buy ASAP if you want it), a floor model, or a return. Any price that ends in a 9 then it means that it’s a manufacturer discount so you might want to wait and keep an eye out for more deals. Also, if you happen to see an asterisk (*) at the end of the price, then grab it right away because the item won’t be restocked.
15. A Costco Card Can Be Used All Over The World
Once you’re a Costco member in your country, you’re also one all over the world. So if you plan on traveling or heading out of your city and pass by a Costco, you’re welcome to go in and shop.
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