One of the qualities that defines Costco What sets it apart from other retailers is that it truly goes out of its way to provide top-notch customer service. Costco maintains an extremely generous return policy that could, in some cases, get you a full refund even if you’ve been on a given purchase for a good year.
Costco will even let you return half-eaten food if there’s something wrong with the taste or if it goes bad before its expiration date. All you have to do is return the item, and if there is at least 50% left, you can get a full refund.
But there are some products you might buy at Costco that aren’t so easy to return — or can’t be returned. Here is a list of eight you should know so you don’t accidentally waste your money.
1. Electronic devices you have owned for more than 90 days
Most Costco items can be returned to the store at any time. Did you buy swimsuits in April that your kids never wore? You can return them in November, even if the season is well past.
However, Costco only gives you 90 days to return electronics. Items that fall into this category include laptops, televisions, projectors, tablets, cameras and major appliances.
2. Cigarettes
Smoking can be a costly habit. If that’s the one you choose to stick to, buying cigarettes at Costco might help to save money. But once you walk in the door with cigarettes, you can’t bring them back. If you’re thinking about quitting smoking, you may want to wait for a huge supply from Costco.
3. Alcohol
Not all Costco stores sell alcohol. But if that’s the case, you’d better make sure your purchases will be put to good use. Costco generally does not allow returns on alcohol.
4. Batteries
Did you buy batteries at Costco? If you are not satisfied with their performance, you may be entitled to a refund if you return them shortly after your purchase. But unlike clothing, you can’t bring batteries back nine months later and expect to get a refund, because batteries have a limited useful life.
5. Tires
If you buy tires at Costco, you’re eligible for perks like free rotations, sales, and inflation checks. You also get a five-year road hazard warranty with your tire purchase and free puncture repairs. However, you can’t actually return used Costco tires to the store.
6. Gold bars
Many people will tell you that gold is a great investment and, unsurprisingly, you can buy gold bars at Costco (although there is usually a limited quantity per member). However, you cannot return the gold, so make sure you have done your research and are comfortable with your purchase. Unlike stocks, gold can be difficult to sell once you decide you don’t want it.
7. Gift cards
Costco sells a wide selection of gift cards for other retailers at prices below face value. But these gift cards are non-refundable, so before you load them, make sure you’ll be able to use them. Worst case scenario, you can always go online and redeem your gift cards for cash on sites like CardCash, but you might lose a bit of money in the process.
8. Costco Shopping Cards
Costco shopping cards are the store’s version of a gift card. For some reason, Costco won’t refund you if you buy a Shop Card and decide you don’t want it. But since you can spend that Costco money on anything, it’s really no big deal. If you can’t get a refund for your $50 purchase with the Shop Card, just use it the next time you need groceries or household essentials.
Every time you shop, whether at Costco or another retailer, it’s important to understand the return policy rules. This could help you avoid losing money and ending up with purchases that aren’t useful to you.
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We strongly believe in the Golden Rule, so editorial opinions are our own and have not been previously reviewed, approved or endorsed by included advertisers. Ascent does not cover all market offers. Editorial content on The Ascent is separate from editorial content on The Motley Fool and is created by a different team of analysts.Maurie Backman has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool holds positions at and recommends Costco Wholesale. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.
Costco will take back half-eaten food – but you won’t be able to return these 8 items was originally published by The Motley Fool
