Costco is not only popular for its low prices, giant hot dogs or irresistible pastries. For those who have a membership, the hidden perks go far beyond the supermarket aisles. In the United States, the famed company offers member services based on exclusive discounts through its membership and Costco card. Read on to get to know more about these benefits.
Learn about Costco’s benefits: all you must know
In addition to big savings, Costco members have access to a number of free services that can represent real savings in time, money and effort. Here’s what they are:
1. Free Tire Maintenance For Life
If you buy your tires at Costco, the service doesn’t end at the checkout counter. The store’s auto center offers free rotation, balancing, puncture repair and pressure checks for the life of your tires. That can add up to a savings of $35 to $90 per service.
2. Free hearing tests
At stores with a hearing center, members can schedule a free hearing test. The evaluation is performed in a private booth and takes about an hour. You only need to make an appointment in advance.
3. Hearing aid care
If you buy your hearing aids at Costco, you are also entitled to free follow-up appointments, many of which can be made from home via cell phone or tablet. In addition, they include free cleaning.
4. Free technical support
Bought a TV, laptop or camera at Costco and don’t know how to install it? Don’t worry. As a member, you can call their free technical support line for step-by-step help. The service covers a wide range of technology products.
5. Extended warranty without paying more
Costco extends the warranty on many electronics and appliances for up to two years, even after the manufacturer’s warranty has expired. Applies to items such as these one we are now presenting:
- TVs
- Projectors
- Computers (except tablets)
- Major appliances
6. Free shipping on certain products
Do you shop online? Some products have free delivery for members, among them:
- Contact lenses
- Tires (if delivered to the Costco Auto Center)
- Non-perishable food items (on orders over $75, except Alaska, Hawaii and Puerto Rico)
7. Generous return policy
Costco is famous for its flexible return policy. Even if you bought online, you can return products free of charge for a full refund, including shipping and handling. Only some items, such as electronics, have a 90-day return period. In some states, returns of alcohol or cigarettes are not allowed by law.
8. Cash refund (Executive members only)
If you have an Executive membership, you receive 2% cash back annually on most purchases. This amount can easily cover the difference between the basic and executive membership if you spend at least $3,250 a year at Costco. The maximum rebate is $1,250 per year.
If you already pay for a membership, be sure to take advantage of all these free benefits. From car maintenance to technology support, Costco offers much more than just wholesale products.
Learn about the change in hours for these specific members
While other chains have also adopted similar strategies, Costco has stood out for its ability to innovate. In order to adapt to shoppers’ demands, the company has decided to offer an additional benefit for those who are part of its Executive Membership. This change aims to improve the shopping experience, combining convenience and exclusivity.
Beginning Monday, June 30, Costco Executive Members will enjoy one hour of early access to the store. This measure will allow members to enter stores as early as 9:00 am during the week, instead of waiting until 10:00 am, as is usually the case. This new benefit will also be available on Sundays and Saturdays, when stores normally open at 9:30 am.