Costco is known for its cult following, but there's a lot more going on behind the scenes than most shoppers realize. Behind the towering pallets of peanut butter and the tantalizing sample stations, employees have a front-row seat to shopper habits, sneaky deals, and the kind of etiquette that makes or breaks their day. They see it all, and they've got some thoughts.
These insider tips go beyond your typical Costco shopping hacks and might just change the way you navigate the warehouse.
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Employees judge you for not returning your cart (even in the rain)
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Costco employees definitely notice when you ditch your cart in the middle of the lot (or worse, leave it wedged on a curb, rolling slowly toward someone's car). Yes, even if it's raining.
Returning your cart is polite, and it keeps the lot safe and organized. Workers appreciate shoppers who take the extra 30 seconds to do the right thing.
The free samples really are unlimited
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Costco free samples are truly unlimited. Employees say they aren't allowed to enforce a limit, but if someone goes overboard, they might start to discourage you. The best way to ensure you get as much as you want is to be polite; otherwise, you might start to test the meaning of "unlimited."
Sunday is the worst day to shop
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Sunday shoppers can expect wall-to-wall carts, long checkout lines, and packed aisles. Employees know it's the most chaotic day of the week as restocking becomes nearly impossible and tempers run high.
For a smoother trip, try weekday mornings. You'll have more space to browse and a much happier crew helping you out.
They're not motivated to upsell
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Unlike traditional retail workers, Costco employees aren't pushed to upsell or meet sales quotas. That means they're not secretly trying to get you to buy the priciest blender or biggest TV.
While they might recommend something if they think it's a good deal (and are encouraged to do so), their own goals are not directly related to sales. Costco staff are paid an impressive base wage (over $30 at most US stores), meaning there's no pressure to upsell or commission-based income.
Shopping pro tip: This month's best deals
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August is here, and with it comes the final stretch of summer. It’s a great time to soak up the season and scoop up hot deals before they fade. Look for savings on:
- Travel and getaway must-haves
- Back-to-school basics
- Clearance swimwear and warm-weather styles
- For grocery savings, grab peak-season produce, like tomatoes, cucumbers, melons, and berries
As retailers shift their focus to fall, August is the last chance to snag summer essentials at unbeatable prices. Shop smart now before the season (and the savings) slip away.
No, you can't use your mom's card
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Costco is strict about membership rules, and using someone else's card is a no-go. Employees are trained to check photo IDs at the register, and they will politely remind you if it's not you in the photo.
It's policy, not personal. If you want the perks, you'll need your own membership.
They can't just "check in the back"
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When an item's out of stock, asking a Costco employee to "check in the back" won't help. Unlike regular stores, most Costco locations don't have a secret stash out back. What you see on the floor is all that is there. Shipments arrive quickly and are sometimes sold even faster.
If it's not there, your best bet is to come back soon.
Don't abuse the return policy
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Costco's return policy is generous, but it's not something to take advantage of. Employees have likely seen people try to return half-eaten cakes, five-year-old TVs, and even empty wine bottles.
Yes, staff usually process returns with a smile, but pushing the limits just makes their jobs harder (and potentially force Costco to reconsider its policy in general).
Yes, employees do get great perks
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Costco employees enjoy solid benefits, which include an employee discount. While there's no across-the-board percentage off everything in-store, it's still a generous offer.
The perks include a free executive membership worth $130, exclusive freebies such as a turkey at Thanksgiving, and access to employee-only promotions.
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Did you know if your air conditioner stops working, your homeowner’s insurance won’t cover it? Same with plumbing, electrical issues, appliances, and more.
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For a limited time, you can get your first month free with a Single Payment home warranty plan.
Talking on the phone at checkout slows everything down
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Trying to chat on the phone while checking out slows the whole process, and yes, Costco employees notice. They need your attention for things like payment details and your membership ID.
Even a quick call leads to fumbles, miscommunications, and backed-up lines. For everyone's sake, save the conversation until you're through the line.
You may not need a membership to buy alcohol
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In certain states, such as California, Delaware, and Texas, non-members can buy alcohol at Costco. This is thanks to specific state laws that prohibit membership requirements for alcohol purchases. You may still need to inform staff of your intent, and you may be subject to additional procedures, like being escorted to the alcohol section.
You can also bypass a membership by shopping with a gift card
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Costco Shop Cards allow non-members to shop without purchasing a membership. These gift cards can be used like cash in-store and online, giving you access to Costco's deals. However, only members can purchase them, and Costco does not allow you to reload them. So, if you want a Costco gift card, get friendly with a paying member.
Quick tips: How to save on your grocery bill
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Grocery shopping doesn't have to break the bank when you use the right strategies. Here are three quick tips for reducing food expenses:
- Buy store brands instead of name brands whenever possible.
- Always make sure to compare unit prices, not just sticker prices.
- Join your store's loyalty program so you don’t miss out on member discounts.
Even though something like choosing coupons in your grocery store app can feel like an annoying task, the savings can really add up.
Products rotate in and out frequently
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Costco's product selection is always changing to keep things fresh and exciting. This rotation helps them offer seasonal goods, test new products, and manage inventory efficiently.
Sometimes your favorite item could disappear, but it might only be temporary. Items often return or are replaced by something just as good. It's part of what makes shopping there an adventure (as well as the changing layout).
They're not scanning the receipt because they don't trust you
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It's not about catching thieves but about catching mistakes. When Costco staff review your receipt, they're checking for overcharges, missing items, or duplicate scans.
With high-volume checkouts and bulk items, errors can happen. This quick double-check helps protect both you and the store. Think of it as a last line of quality control, not a trust issue.
If a price ends in .97, it's an exclusive discount
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Ever notice a price ending in .97 at Costco? That's not random.
It signals a special, store-specific markdown. These discounts are set by the local warehouse and typically indicate that the item is being cleared out or offered at a deeper discount than usual.
In other words, it's a clue for savvy shoppers to grab the deal before it disappears for good.
Bottom line
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Costco workers have a unique perspective, and their behind-the-scenes insights can improve your next warehouse run. By following these tips and being a little more "Costco-aware," you can save time, money, and awkward stares.
Pay attention to those subtle clues, and you'll not only save on everyday essentials but also feel like a true Costco insider in no time.
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If you love earning cash rewards but prefer to avoid the hassle of tracking spending categories, the Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card could be a good option for you. Cardmembers can earn unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases.
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