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- I have spent 19 years working at Costco, and I’ve gathered essential tips for navigating the warehouse effectively.
- If you frequently shop at Costco, consider upgrading to an executive membership and keep an eye on item prices.
- An asterisk on price tags indicates that the item will not be restocked.
With nearly two decades of experience at Costco’s membership counter, I’ve discovered several strategies to save money and secure my favorite products before they sell out.
Here are eight practical tips I apply regularly to ensure I don’t miss out on groceries and other items while shopping at Costco.
Upgrade to an Executive Membership for Greater Savings
Veronica Thatcher
The executive membership option is arguably the best way to maximize your investment in your Costco membership. Priced at $130—double that of the standard gold-star membership—it offers members 2% back on most purchases, including those made in the pharmacy, tire center, as well as optical and hearing services.
This cash-back reward typically arrives by mail two months before your renewal date and can be applied towards future purchases or used for renewing your membership. Additionally, qualified purchases can yield up to $1,250 in rewards annually for executive members.
However, note that certain items such as tobacco products, gasoline purchases, cash cards from Costco, and postage stamps do not qualify for this cash-back incentive.
Utilize Price Adjustments Wisely
If you purchase an item at full price only to see it discounted later within 30 days of your purchase date, you may be eligible for a price adjustment from Costco.
To claim this adjustment, bring along your original receipt and visit the refund counter. If you’ve misplaced it but still wish to pursue an adjustment request just ask any team member there for assistance.
If you’ve shopped online with them and notice a price drop afterward check out Costco’s website under “rebates”, where you can process adjustments yourself easily!
Asterisk Signs Indicate Limited Stock Items
Veronica Thatcher
Asterisks located in the upper-right corner of pricing signs indicate that these items are being discontinued or will not return once sold out. If there’s something you love make sure you’re checking its signage regularly! Employees stationed near memberships can also assist by checking if nearby locations might continue carrying it too!
Certain Prices Reflect Discounts or Clearance Items
You’ll find prices ending with .97 or .00 denote markdowns—these often suggest clearance sales aimed toward moving inventory quickly or seasonal goods nearing their end-of-life cycle! Keep in mind though pricing may differ based upon location so always verify locally!
Kirkland Signature Products Are Worth Trying Out
Veronica Thatcher
Kirkland Signature represents one of Costcos’ private labels providing quality alternatives comparable against mainstream brands available elsewhere! Given their satisfaction guarantee policy if you’re unsatisfied simply return any product purchased without hassle ensuring peace-of-mind when trying new things!
Download The Official App Before Shopping
The official app proves invaluable prior heading into stores allowing users access current sales promotions while browsing through aisles even beforehand! It also provides digital access memberships eliminating need physical cards altogether alongside tracking receipts online orders remaining balances plus linking Visa accounts if applicable too!
Be Ready To Pack Without Grocery Bags
Veronica Thatcher
No grocery bags are provided by costco however boxes located near exits help pack up items purchased efficiently ! Bringing along some reusable bags makes loading everything much smoother overall saving time during checkout processes !
This article was initially published on May 02 ,2023 ,and updated last November 01 ,2024 .
