Costco is one of the best places to snag great deals, but behind the scenes, there are a few tricks and insider secrets that many shoppers might not be aware of.
Whether you’re a seasoned Costco member or just starting to explore their aisles, knowing these insider tips can help you save money, maximize your membership, and enjoy an even better shopping experience.
Here are 10 Costco secrets that employees probably don’t want you to know!
1. If the price of stamps goes up, the first thing you should do is run — don’t walk
One of the best-kept secrets is Costco’s pricing on stamps. Unlike other retailers, Costco sells forever stamps at the current price even if a price hike is looming. So, when word spreads about an increase in stamp prices, your best bet is to head straight to Costco and stock up before prices rise elsewhere. This simple hack can save you a significant amount over time, especially if you use stamps frequently.
2. About 40% of Merchandise is Sourced Locally or Regionally
While Costco is known for its bulk quantities and national brands, about 40% of their products are sourced from local or regional vendors. This means that the offerings at your local Costco may be slightly different than those in another region.
Keep an eye out for unique, high-quality items that are sourced close to home — these products are often fresher and can give you a taste of what’s popular in your area.
3. The Almighty Costco Hotdog Remains Inflation-Proof
Despite rising costs everywhere, the iconic Costco hot dog and soda combo has remained $1.50 since its debut in 1985. This is no coincidence — Costco is determined to keep this unbeatable deal inflation-proof, and they’ve even admitted that it’s not a big moneymaker for them.
The goal is simple: keep customers coming back for this beloved budget-friendly meal.
4. Your Deli Hotdog Can Have More Than Just Ketchup and Mustard
If you thought the only toppings for your Costco hot dog were ketchup and mustard, think again! Many Costco delis offer additional condiments like onions, relish, sauerkraut, and even jalapeños. These extra toppings aren’t always advertised, but they’re often available at the condiment stand or by request.
So, next time you grab a hot dog, load it up with all the fixings for a more customized and flavorful meal.
5. Costco Literally Make Hundreds of Sandwiches and Chicken Bakes
Ever wondered how Costco keeps up with the endless demand for their fresh deli sandwiches and famous chicken bakes? The answer is simple: they make hundreds of them every single day!
Costco’s food court operates like a well-oiled machine, ensuring they never run out of your favorite grab-and-go meals. With their huge production scale, you can always count on finding freshly made food, no matter how busy the store gets.
6. Everything That Ends in .99 or .00 is The Original Price
Costco’s pricing codes are a goldmine for deal hunters. If you see an item with a price ending in .99 or .00, that’s the original price. But if the price ends in .97 or .98, it means the item has been marked down, often significantly.
These markdowns are generally applied to products that Costco wants to move quickly, so keep an eye on those price tags to snag some serious discounts.
7. Best Price Guaranteed – For Real
Costco stands by its commitment to offering the best prices. If you find a product you purchased at Costco for a lower price within 30 days, the store will honor the difference — no questions asked. This price guarantee ensures that you’re always getting the most competitive pricing, whether it’s on a big-ticket item or a household staple.
8. Costco tires are filled with nitrogen
When you purchase tires from Costco, you’re not just getting great value — you’re also getting superior tire maintenance. Costco fills their tires with nitrogen rather than regular air, which is better at maintaining consistent pressure and extending tire life. This means fewer trips to the air pump and better fuel efficiency for your vehicle.
9. Be On The Lookout for the ‘Death Star’
The ‘Death Star’ is the nickname for an asterisk (*) on Costco price tags. This little symbol tells you that the item won’t be restocked once it sells out. So, if you see a product with the ‘Death Star’ symbol and you love it, grab it while you can, because once it’s gone, it’s gone for good!
10. Costco Has a Very Liberal Return Policy
Costco’s return policy is legendary for being one of the most generous in retail. They accept returns on almost anything, and there’s often no time limit (except for electronics, which have a 90-day return window).
Whether you’re returning an item after several months of use or just didn’t like a purchase, Costco will likely take it back with no hassle. This return policy makes shopping at Costco a risk-free experience.
Final Thoughts
Costco’s stellar deals and unique policies make it a shopper’s paradise, but knowing these insider secrets can help you save even more money and get the most out of your membership.
From finding the best prices to uncovering hidden treasures in the store, Costco offers plenty of perks that most shoppers don’t even know about. Keep these secrets in mind on your next trip to Costco and maximize your shopping experience!
