People love Costco, and so do we! With great savings and quality products, not to mention the food court, it’s impossible not to love being a member. But, are you getting the most out of your membership?
Here are 15 Costco secrets you need to know and make the most of…like yesterday!
Check price tags to see if you’re getting the best deal.
The numbers at the end of Costco price tags have special meaning. If a price tag ends at .97, the item is on extra clearance. Items that end in .00 or .88 mean that the manager cut the price because of a defect or because it is the last in stock.
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Costco can help you plan a funeral.
Well, not exactly, but they do sell caskets. If you’re a member, you can order a casket from Costco, which ships to 36 states plus the District of Columbia.
While funerals are rarely an upbeat occasion, the caskets sold at Costco tend to be of good quality and much cheaper than those at other retailers.
There’s a way to take advantage of sales you may have missed out on.
Did you buy an item at Costco and notice it’s now on sale? You can likely get a price adjustment if you purchased the item within the past 30 days. So, don’t hesitate to ask if you notice a better deal on an item you just got.
Know the best time to shop.
Costco is popular, and while we understand why, shopping during peak times can be frustrating. If you want a more relaxing experience, insiders say your best bet is to visit your local store Tuesday through Thursday. It’s generally less busy in the morning or right before closing.
The savings on allergy pills and pain relievers alone are worth the membership.
Costco carries name-brand and generic versions of popular over-the-counter medications, such as Tylenol and Claritin. You can save money over any other pharmacy if you get the Kirkland brand bottles.
Costco offers price matching.
Costco is known for amazing deals. So, if you see an item with a better price at a different retailer, show the ad to a Costco employee! They will honor the lower price so you get the best deal possible.
Look out for asterisks.
Notice an asterisk in the upper right corner of a Costco price tag? This means the item won’t be coming back.
While seasonal items may return, check the tags to see if you need to stock up on your favorite things.
There isn’t an extra storehouse in the store.
Looking for an item that isn’t there? According to employees, they can help you track it down, there isn’t an additional huge warehouse full of unstocked items. There is extra stock high up the shelves sometimes, but other than that, what you see is what you get!
Don’t forget to utilize the app.
The Costco app makes it easier to purchase online items. Also, you can get exclusive deals through the app that aren’t available anywhere else.
On top of all that, you can use Apple Pay or Google Pay through the app for extra convenience.
It’s super easy to make a return.
Costco’s return policy is pretty amazing! If you don’t like a product, you can return it for a full refund without a receipt. They can look up your purchase history throughout your membership.
Certain, like electronics, have stricter return policies, however.
Save time at the food court by ordering ahead.
When shopping on a busy day, make sure to put in your food court order at the start of shopping, so your affordable Costco hot dog is ready when you’re done.
Most locations also let you call ahead or schedule a time to order a full pizza, which can really save you time.
Want deals on experiences? Costco can help with that.
Your Costco membership allows you to access rental cars, insurance, and sometimes discounted movie tickets.
By looking online or in the app, you can learn more about extra services and deals that aren’t just discounted goods.
You can get non-members in.
Most people know you can bring two guests with you while you shop. But, you can also give your friends access cards. Costco members can buy and refill a Costco cash card and give it to anyone they know to use in-store.
Getting engaged? Buy your ring from Costco.
If you’re about to pop the questions or planning your wedding, you can buy diamond rings from Costco, too. Some are rather affordable, while others cost a pretty penny. You really can buy almost anything at Costco!
Are you a Costco expert?
Do you consider yourself a Costco expert? We would love to hear your tips and tricks on getting the most out of your Costco membership. Share this insider information below to help other Costco fans out!
