Is it ever a good idea to purchase an item from a retailer charging more for something you want to buy? Honestly, yes — especially if that retailer is Costco. I’m not talking about instances where the Costco price for a laptop or stove is significantly higher than that of Best Buy, Amazon, Target, or another store.
But before you write off buying something at Costco because it costs $10 or $20 more there, consider this list of reasons it might be worth paying a smidge more.
1. Return policy
Costco has a widely lauded return policy, and it’s surely a major reason to shop there. I don’t recommend taking unfair advantage of this policy — just because you can return a couch years after you bought it doesn’t mean you should. But if you have a genuine complaint or problem with something you’ve bought at Costco, chances are you’ll be able to return it with no questions asked.
The exceptions to this policy include gift cards, cigarettes, event tickets, and gold bullion. It’s also worth noting that you only get 90 days to return electronics and major appliances — but as you’ll see below, this likely doesn’t amount to a drawback given all the benefits of buying these from Costco.
2. Included perks
The perks you’re entitled to depend on what kind of item you’re buying from Costco. For example, if you buy a major appliance, like a refrigerator or a clothes dryer, from Costco.com, you’ll get free delivery and installation, hauling away of your old appliance, and basic parts for that installation. If you buy appliances through Costco Direct, it means extra savings the more you buy — buy three appliances and you’ll save $200, for example.
Some items come with a free extended warranty, too. Costco extends the manufacturer’s warranty for up to two years from the date you buy a TV, computer, projector, or major appliance. I don’t recommend paying for an extended warranty, but if you can get one for free, what’s not to like?
3. IT support
If you’re not super tech savvy, the prospect of buying a new TV or computer could be anxiety-inducing — sure, you get a shiny new device, but you’ll have to figure out how to set it up to your liking. And what if something goes wrong!?
Well, when you buy a TV, computer, appliance, or even hearing aids from Costco, you’ll get to take advantage of the warehouse giant’s technical services. On its website, you’ll find troubleshooting guides and advice for all kinds of devices, plus a phone number to call if you need human assistance with getting your new laptop configured — just have your membership number and device’s serial number handy.
4. Maximizing your Executive membership
You’re paying for a Costco membership, so be sure you’re getting your money’s worth. This is especially crucial if you’ve sprung for the Executive membership, which costs twice as much as the entry-level Gold Star membership, but comes with a few notable benefits.
The biggest perk of this membership by far is getting to earn 2% cash back across most Costco purchases, up to $1,250 per year. So if the price of a given item is less than 2% higher at Costco than somewhere else, it’s worth buying there, as you’ll come out ahead and get to .
5. Credit card rewards
Finally, ideally you’re using a rewards credit card for your purchases and taking advantage of the chance to earn points or cash back on your spending. Here again, if the price you’re paying for a given item at Costco isn’t too high to outweigh the value of those rewards, you’ll benefit.
The trick is choosing a card that pays bonus rewards for warehouse clubs, and luckily, we’ve done the hard work for you. Need a new credit card for Costco? .
Costco membership offers a lot of perks, and that often includes lower prices on some items. Shop around before you make a big purchase, but don’t forget to consider the other potential benefits of buying the item from Costco.
