Five Ways to Whip Inflation When You Shop at a Warehouse Club
By Jane Bennett Clark, Senior Associate Editor
From Kiplinger's Personal Finance magazine, August 2008
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For a reliable bargain on everything from dog food to diamonds, head to a warehouse club, such as Costco or Sam's Club. These clubs limit their margins to between 11% and 14%, compared with 25% to 30% at supermarkets and mass merchants, according to Michael Clayman, editor of Warehouse Club Focus, a trade publication. Annual membership starts at $40 at Sam's Club and $50 at Costco. Both clubs offer upgraded memberships, starting at $100 a year, that give you a 2% rebate on the year's purchases.
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But you won't save much money if you get sidetracked by the bling and the flat-screen TVs. Here's how to make the most of a trip to the warehouse (and spend the least).
Do your homework. Don't try to bone up on brands and prices amid the kids, the carts and the chaos. Comparison-shop online before you leave home so that you know which products and features you can't live without before you arrive.
Grab the deals. You can always count on finding a small but decent selection of electronics, fancy food, jewelry and brand-name clothing. But the treasures -- say, a Kate Spade bag or Ralph Lauren coat -- are here today and gone tomorrow. Snap them up right away or regret it later.
Be prepared to do it yourself. You're on your own when it comes to getting that hot tub off the warehouse floor and into your car (order online and the clubs will deliver). You'll do the installing, too.
Watch those portions. Warehouse clubs offer better prices because they sell in bulk. But it's no bargain if the food goes bad -- or if you bulk up eating it. Studies show that "people eat more when there's more in front of them," says Ephraim Leibtag, an economist at the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The only way to save money and your waistline is to resist the temptation to race through an entire tub of rocky road.
Gauge gas prices online. Warehouse-club deals on gasoline are good but not always the best. Before you drive ten miles to Costco -- and waste more gas while you spin your wheels waiting in line -- check local gas prices at GasBuddy.com.
Reader Comments (115)
Posted by: Jeff S. at 07/11/2008 02:25:48 PM
It's sad to think that Common Sense has become a novelty that must be explained in this country.
Posted by: Chewbacca at 07/11/2008 02:44:13 PM
Captain Obvious once again saves us from...well...not much.
Posted by: Disappointed at 07/11/2008 02:46:31 PM
Is this an entirely useless article or what?
Posted by: john d at 07/11/2008 02:47:22 PM
Please, this is story devoid of information and begs the question of why was it written?
Posted by: Matt at 07/11/2008 02:48:34 PM
Go to Costco and shop smart!
Posted by: JMunny at 07/11/2008 02:57:37 PM
One very important thing to look for when shopping for misc. packaged goods, is to always check for expiration dates. Quite a bit of the food items will be near their expiration date and possibly go bad before you can finish off the goods.
Posted by: Andrei at 07/11/2008 03:02:37 PM
Good comment Jeff S...
Posted by: BryanS at 07/11/2008 03:12:27 PM
No kidding. I was hoping for some real tips, not common sense stuff that my 13 yr old already knows.
Posted by: Bev M. at 07/11/2008 03:14:00 PM
I couldn't agree with you more Jeff S. The word "Common Sense" no longer exist in this world as new know it. It's unfortunate that people don't try know the meaning of common sense or customer service. Everything is always...NO.
Posted by: Steven Goldberg at 07/11/2008 03:25:48 PM
The article referred to upgraded memberships at the clubs. This is a bad deal. I joined Costco when they first opened in our town as an Executive member. I was told I would get a 2% rebate or a $50 rebate whichever was bigger at years end. I never got either....
Posted by: Tina S at 07/11/2008 03:40:28 PM
...obvious, common-sense tips that any dingding can figure out.
Posted by: Heidi at 07/11/2008 04:03:42 PM
I've worked for Costco for almost 22 years now. In the old days there wouldn't be anyone to help you load up your flatbed and help you put it in your car, but our member service has skyrocketed since then and we go above and beyond for our members. Sams members even tell me they like Costco better because of the services and products. Go in halves with a friend or neighbor on bulk purchases like food so it doesn't go bad and you don't eat too much. Upgrade your card to an Executive membership and apply for the American Express True Earnings card. You might as well get paid for shopping. Aloha!
Posted by: Mr. Jim at 07/11/2008 04:06:20 PM
Because so many need the obvious explained little wonder we are in the economic situations we face today.
Posted by: Brian H at 07/11/2008 04:15:01 PM
...I go to the warehouses for gas when I am going there anyway, but I reliably find the prices to be on the lower end and always good quality unlike some smaller stations.
Posted by: Joel at 07/11/2008 04:45:28 PM
Wow! Jane...Everything you said is common knowledge to people who DON'T have membership cards and understand how wholesale membership warehouses work...
Posted by: Vivian at 07/11/2008 04:53:58 PM
I agree with Jeff S.'s assessment.
Posted by: Ken at 07/11/2008 04:59:29 PM
I'd add to the Portions point to also check the expiration dates. More than once I've bought in bulk only to find that the food will expire before I could use it. The savings can be great, but you have to dig through the inventory to make certain you're getting the "freshest" item.
Posted by: joe at 07/11/2008 05:05:27 PM
couldn't agree more, Jeff. When's the next article about the sky being blue and grass being green?
Posted by: ChrisR at 07/11/2008 05:18:39 PM
Common Sense is gone...
Posted by: cynicalismo at 07/11/2008 05:20:04 PM
...There have always been those who can't compute, can't converse and can't cogitate. They are the ones who think 3 for $5 is cheaper than 1 for $1.65, who insist on using high test in their gas tanks even though the manual calls for regular, who buy expensive life insurance policies when what they really need is inexpensive term insurance and who max out their credit cards and make the minimum payment each month while paying 24% on the balance. Common sense has never been very common.
Posted by: RONN C. at 07/11/2008 05:35:00 PM
COSTCO GIVES BUSINESS MEMBERS 5% OFF THE PRICE OF GAS. THAT IS AROUND 25 CENTS A GALLON. GREAT DEAL..
Posted by: Denny at 07/11/2008 05:35:05 PM
Buy Kate Spade or Ralph Lauren? Then why go to a warehouse to try to save money???
Posted by: olympinut at 07/11/2008 05:45:00 PM
Check the supermarket prices also...for example, cereal can be a better buy with sales, than the larger bulk pkgs at the price clubs, same with detergent... so check the ads before you go.
Posted by: Walt Strohm at 07/11/2008 05:51:59 PM
I found the advice to be so generic that it could apply to shopping almost anywhere...
Posted by: Ar at 07/11/2008 05:54:05 PM
I was looking forward to getting some good tips but the article did not provide any tips that we did not already know.
Posted by: Eric at 07/11/2008 05:58:43 PM
"But the treasures...are here today and gone tomorrow. Snap them up right away or regret it later." Huh?! How does this save you money? You're telling your readers to buy on impulse, or live...with regret? Regret? Really? Hate to tell you this, but the reason Americans pile on so much debt is because they don't live with regret. How about, make a list a stick with it. Don't allow yourself to be swayed by labels. Ask yourself if you want the name brand bag, or need the name brand bag. Others have said it already: what a worthless article
Posted by: Big Shopper at 07/11/2008 05:59:31 PM
Like the previous shopper I get gas when I shop at Costo, too.
Posted by: Mr. Frank at 07/11/2008 06:03:44 PM
Thanks for the great article. I learned alot. Long I have wanted to know more about Warehouse Clubs. Now I know how to get all the good deals and to avoid the junkster deals.
Posted by: maureen at 07/11/2008 06:09:07 PM
Where is it that you can get a good value (high quality) for your money on drug items, gas, and of course an oven roasted chicken that will feed a family for two days for a price less than anywhere else....well. It's a no brainer. Be smart about what you need and what you what.
Posted by: Father of 3 at 07/11/2008 06:13:46 PM
I shopped at the Sam's Club in Langhorne Pa and they have great service along with great prices on just about everything I buy. The membership is cheaper then Costco and BJ's and the people that work there are always nice and friendly.
Posted by: Ann at 07/11/2008 06:14:44 PM
If you get the Executive membership with 2% back you will easily pay for your annual membership with the rebate, and if you have the Amex card also, you get another rebate. If you have a freezer and repackage meat as soon as you get it home, and cupboard space, you can save money by limiting shopping trips as well as by the bulk buying.
Posted by: Sad in Bluffton, SC at 07/11/2008 06:19:06 PM
1) Do you homework. Good advice before buying any large purchase anywhere. 2)Grab the deals. Yes, buy it when you see it. It's a warehouse. They only buy in bulk at a certain price. If the merchandiser (increases) the price, Costco will not buy it. They don't believe in a member paying one price one week and a higher price the next. (of course this does not apply to medicine, or basic everyday foods). 3) Be prepared to do it yourself. So not true. All you have to do is ask and a merchant will help you. You might have to wait a bit if the warehouse is busy but it is Costco policy to help each and every member with their shopping. Super large items have even been put on trucks with forklifts if needed. They will help you put anything in your car, truck or Van. 4) Watch those portions. Solution - split large portions with a friend or relative. Meat (which is the best you can buy) can be wrapped in what ever portion is needed for the size of your family. 5) Gauge gas prices - Duh! Your will never receive better attention, helpfulness and quality from any other warehouse or store. Sincerely, One member who relocated and does not have the blessing of haveing a Costco to shop at.
Posted by: Laura at 07/11/2008 06:20:12 PM
With high gas, energy and food prices, wholesale club shopping is the way to go, without a doubt.
Posted by: Linda at 07/11/2008 06:25:27 PM
To Steven Goldberg. All you have to do is go to your Costco membership counter. Tell them you never received your rebate and they will submit a form for you. If your rebate was connected to your American Express Credit Card it would have been connected to your February statement of the following year on the last page. Check you statement, if you find it explain to the membership Manager that you were never told where to look for it. I am positive they will accomidate you.
Posted by: randy at 07/11/2008 06:41:49 PM
I am more confused now after reading this article. First the writer states you will NOT save much money if you buy bling or flat screen TVs but then proceeds to sat a cpl paragraphs later to "snap them up or regret it later" on those small but decent selections of electronics or other here today gone tomorrow treasures. So should I buy the flat screen at my local Sams or not?!?!?!
Posted by: jake at 07/11/2008 06:52:22 PM
Best thing to do...is to shop at both sam's and cosco for a day to see for yourself. Both have different items anyway, both have great service and values including plus memberships that save you more money thoughout the year. bottom line is they are better than wasting your money at the supermarkets who mark up their prices. Businesses buy from the warehouses then mark up the price to sell to you. Do the math.
Posted by: junior at 07/11/2008 07:03:37 PM
The American Express card is free of annual fees for Costco members, and using it to buy $4/gallon gas amounts to a savings of .12/gallon.
Posted by: Prosper Sabbah at 07/11/2008 07:21:13 PM
I love to shop at Costco. However I would like them to create an express check out point, because some customers buy very few items and hate to stand in line behind others with huge purchases and would like to save some time.
Posted by: Noel Freedman at 07/11/2008 07:26:42 PM
Indeed you get a fair shake at Costco. They only buy the best quality of produce and meat. The only reason you may find a broken egg is because large is really large..No rip off here. The boss gives a damn for his customers.
Posted by: cattwmn at 07/11/2008 08:17:05 PM
AND - Costco's pharmacy is usually the best price - beating Walmart. Compare prices via phone or online before dropping off the prescription. Most pharmacies will meet a lower price at a competitor.
Posted by: o hicks at 07/11/2008 08:25:52 PM
we live near tallahassee fl. at first costco was 29 to30 cents below everyone on gas...now they are the same
Posted by: Darren Berkle at 07/11/2008 10:51:01 PM
They have a lot of good deals but I find light bulbs are always cheaper online..
Posted by: jbeerman at 07/12/2008 05:53:04 PM
This is not a recent experience; we have not lived within convenient distance since we moved to TN. But...At a Boston, MA area Costco, we picked up a very fresh looking log of chopped beef, perhaps 5 pounds, and took it home to divide into freezable portions for two. On slicing thru the log, we found that 1/2 inch of fresh pink meat had been rolled around very old looking brown chopped meat. On returning it, we were immediately given our money back, and,free, a beautiful roasting chicken. We continued to shop at Costcos, and wish they had one near Knoxville, TN, but have not been tempted to by chopped beef at any warehouse, since.
Posted by: Norman at 07/13/2008 01:53:28 PM
...If you can't come up with something more useful to the consumer than this, save your time and ink.
Posted by: Duane Dent at 07/13/2008 02:59:24 PM
One should know something about buying beef before you buy. The older looking meat is the meat that is aged . the older the meat the better the flavor is.
Posted by: SYANDREW at 07/13/2008 03:07:15 PM
We shop at Sam's Clubs in several different cities (Winston-Salem, Charlotte, Hickory, NC) and we have never been disappointed in any of their meats. We buy REAL cheese in bulk along with some specialty items and BUTTER! Butter at Sam's Club is a great deal - better than even store brands locally! We DON'T go for the blingbling or electronics - we go to Best Buy for those. I LOVE shopping at Sam's and Costco is basically the same thing with a different name. I compared their prices in the Winston-Salem stores and they were exactly the same on the items I checked. So, to me, either one is a bargain as long as you are comfortable buying in bulk. We divide and freeze meats, cheese, butter, and cream cheese.
Posted by: Al at 07/13/2008 07:39:47 PM
What a waste of my time! I expected some specifics.
Posted by: Gene at 07/14/2008 07:53:09 AM
...A catchy headline but no meat.
Posted by: dot at 07/14/2008 08:01:11 AM
...i expected more specifics and someting new.
Posted by: Bob at 07/14/2008 08:52:05 AM
...Anyone that shops warehouses knows far more than you have wasted our time here with.
Posted by: Bear at 07/14/2008 10:33:43 AM
...No specifics!!!!!
Posted by: Susan Sasso at 07/14/2008 10:44:04 AM
I purchased pork chops which were marked for quick sale but well within the date needed to be used and found they had a bad smell. Not being able to use them, I lost out on fifteen dollars. I wish to warn people to not buy the bargain meat. The "not bargain" meat I have purchased has been fine.
Posted by: SEASON-ED SHOPPER at 07/14/2008 10:58:03 AM
THIS ARTICLE INCLUDED NO INSIGHT. THE INFO IS OBVIOUS...
Posted by: Lilo at 07/14/2008 11:04:30 AM
To folks who have elderly relatives: don't send them to Costco on their own to become befuddled by the enormous displays! It is very easy to become overwhelmed and confused by the size of the warehouse and the crowds of shoppers. Plus, the packages are way too bulky and heavy to manage for anyone who is frail. The quantities of food are also ridiculous for any living alone (unless 10 relatives show up for a free meal every weekend!) A bargain isn't a bargain if the food you buy becomes outdated and elderly folks may try to use up stuff that expired years ago!...This comment was inspired by what I saw yesterday at my local Costco. It was quite sad seeing so many elderly people wandering around with strange expressions on their faces while they tried to figure out what to buy!
Posted by: r.b. at 07/14/2008 12:22:17 PM
I find that if I shop with a friend on those bulk items we both win. Not a few months supply at home and a lot less money spent.
Posted by: Nina at 07/14/2008 12:44:16 PM
I have in the past brought just my receipt back to the store (without the actual meat) told them I tossed it out and I was never refused a full refund
Posted by: Howell at 07/14/2008 01:09:09 PM
This article assumes people are stupid. Ask any housewife or mom how to save on groceries and we could cut the average bill by half. Just read The Tightwad Gazette. If you buy in discounted bulk, make sure you have freezer bags. You can freeze almost anything. We cook from our freezer and save massive money. This does not compromise taste!! I have teenagers whose friends think I'm the best cook. I'm also the most frugal.
Posted by: LoveTravel8 at 07/14/2008 01:10:03 PM
problem is it's a total waste if you don't use the large portions you're buying...
Posted by: Michelle at 07/14/2008 01:12:39 PM
Costco (Hanover, MD) is a wonderful store to shop in. Even as my family is downsizing, you can always save by shopping in bulk. The gas prices are usually lower than the local area stations. I am an exective member and enjoy receiving my 2% rebate check at Christmas time.
Posted by: deb at 07/14/2008 01:14:15 PM
One of the wonderful perks of Costco is their very liberal return policy. I would have phoned first and then returned those chops and gotten a refund.
Posted by: John at 07/14/2008 01:16:13 PM
Dear Susan: You did not return the bad porkchops as you would any other store and why? Costco would have gladly refunded your money.
Posted by: RobertD at 07/14/2008 01:16:46 PM
The odor of the "bad meat" was from a bacteria called LactoBacillus. It's a gram positive anaerobic bacteria. It is often used in food cultures and is not harmful, but causes (depending upon whether you like the smell) an unpleasant odor. Yogurt and Cheese production relies upon this bacteria for the function of converting lactose and other sugars to lactic acid. In meat, it is harmless and the odor goes away when washing the surface of the meat well in plain tap water. One of the reasons shops put the meat on sale is because it is close to being at the stage of having lacto bacillus. The important thing to remember is that if it has an odor then it's this harmless type of bacteria.
Posted by: fjbertram at 07/14/2008 01:40:21 PM
...We are members of Costco and buy certain bargain items there, and also shop the local stores for sales. Quality of goods is also a factor. It is no different than any other store - everything is not cheaper. I filled my tank at Costco yesterday because I was passing by there. I don't go out of my way to get gas there for a few cents a gallon. Like others have said, when you have to explain common sense, it's pretty bad.
Posted by: lisa at 07/14/2008 01:49:20 PM
Tell us something that isn't already common sense...
Posted by: Practicalicia at 07/14/2008 01:55:51 PM
We are a 2-person household, and we buy the large packs of meat (not marked for quick sale!) and get them straight home in our 2 coolers. The kitchen is already prepared for us to get straight to work on our purchases. As soon as we arrive, we immediately divide up and/or cut up the meat into small quantities we can use in one meal. We wrap in paper and plastic wrap we have also bought at Sam's and store in plastic ziplock bags we buy there too. We freeze them in a Sam's Club freezer. We freeze seafood in small bags (as long as the seafood has not been previously frozen. Ask.) We buy large bags of prefrozen fish, just pull one out of the bag when we need it. We buy large bags of frozen berries, which we just pour out of the bag in quantities we need. We have a closet in which we store two-packs of cooking spray, bales of paper products and so on. All you need is a dedicated storage area, a freezer, and the ability to get your shopping done efficiently and quickly. Older citizens need help with this, but it can be a huge benefit to them if their friends or family first take them on a couple of trips so let the experience soak in, then buy something on their behalf and show them how to handle it. What a money-saver it is for fixed-income folks! We save our membership fees over and over with the low prices.
Posted by: Jim at 07/14/2008 02:10:16 PM
Raise your hand if you were not aware of this information.
Posted by: Molly at 07/14/2008 02:28:13 PM
I have been a member of Costco for 23 years. I have never had a problem with the company. If the food I bought was bad or stale, I returned it. Returning merchandise to them without a hassle is one of the companies greatest assets.
Posted by: CeCe at 07/14/2008 06:50:01 PM
BJs is different from the other warehouse clubs in that it takes manufacturers' coupons. If you use common sense and know your prices you CAN save at the clubs, but NOT everything sold in bulk is cheaper than loss leaders and genuine sales at the grocery stores. Heck, I'm even finding better prices than the clubs or the grocery stores on some grocery items at Target, Rite Aid, and CVS and they also take coupons. As for the recommendation for the Tightwad Gazette by Amy Dazczyn (sp?) -- I heartily second it! It will explain true "bulk" buying to any newbies out there.
Posted by: Luvyacostco at 07/14/2008 10:09:42 PM
We have been members of Costco for years and love it. Great prices and great people. They could do better with their everyday men's pants...that actually have a waist band and not just one layer. These pants "fold over" when being worn and look terrible. Buy better so we can buy better. Thanks.
Posted by: wil at 07/14/2008 10:13:27 PM
Costco to my wife and I means quality and low prices...Our one complaint is that they sometimes eliminate things we like. For instance, breaded scallops and their Smart Steaks.
Posted by: Monica at 07/14/2008 11:17:06 PM
I love Costco. Shopping there has cut my grocery bill in half, on fresh and frozen organic fruits and vegetables, and on meat for my family of six (2 teen boys, a teen girl, a 5 y.o, + husband and me). The gas is usually at least $.20/gal cheaper than most of our local stations...I shop with a list. That is my secret. I feed my family for about $150.00/wk at Costco. It is worth the 25 mile drive. I will only shop locally for supplemental items.
Posted by: John at 07/14/2008 11:50:41 PM
...(no) mention (of) BJ's (I wonder why) which my wife and I are a member of. We've never had a problem with them at all and you can definitely save some money by shopping there.
Posted by: Mickey Graham at 07/15/2008 12:13:51 AM
I agree that buying too much of a good thing can be wasteful - but sharing a bag of produce or other item (often packaged in twos or more) with a neighbor or friend can be a solution. This also saves one of us a trip to Costco!
Posted by: SHELLY at 07/15/2008 01:49:07 AM
I've comparison shopped Costco & Smart & Final here in Ca. On a list of almost 20 items, there were the SAME PRICE. On maybe 2-3 items Costco was only 5 cents cheaper. My husband & I are now wondering if the yearly fee is worth it, and when I got to S & F I spend less because I don't buy clothes or other stuff I really don't need. Consider it..
Posted by: Stephen at 07/15/2008 02:20:58 AM
I like to shop at Costco, because the leadership cares more for their employeees. They pay more and offer better benefits than Sam's Club (a part of Wal-Mart)...As a professional myself, I find that ethics should play at least some part in where we shop.
Posted by: John Marshall at 07/15/2008 02:34:19 AM
...though I sometimes resent the quantity of foreign made goods at Costco - not to mention Walmart, I greatly appreciate the overall QUALITY of goods at Costco, and the absolute satisfaction guarantee - and virtually unlimited return period except for some electronics, which is still NINETY days - and way longer than CC, or BB.
Posted by: James at 07/16/2008 02:37:52 PM
Shopped Costco for a 46" Sony LCD Bravia TV. Almost paid $2199.00 at Costco but found the same TV at Target for $600.00 LESS! Be careful when shopping these big stores. Not everything they sell is a good deal.
Posted by: Dave at 07/16/2008 03:04:43 PM
Shop at Sams Club. Costco only has a 90 day period in which it covers any problems with electonics, Sams Club on the other hand, is for a lifetime. Yes, lifetime. Buy a TV today, and if there is an issue with it three years later, they will give you a new one. Way to go Sams Club! Also, if you are concerned about the amount of products comint from China......HELLO, just about everything comes from there. Look at the labels on YOUR clothes you are buying for high dollars from American companies. Why, becasue of AMERICAN greed.
Posted by: Hmalpha at 07/16/2008 03:57:06 PM
Stephen, who really cares about the way the corporation treats its employees? I too am a professional and that also has nothing to do with anything...
Posted by: Elliott at 07/19/2008 11:19:24 AM
Dave, you have it all wrong. Sam's doesn't offer a lifetime guarantee on anything they sell. Also, prices are higher in the US, because third world countries...pay slave wages. Want that for America?...
Posted by: Bigdog at 07/23/2008 01:05:35 PM
Costco's merchandise is of higher quality but great deals come from both retailers. I shop them both.
Posted by: mrfrugal at 08/01/2008 12:27:11 PM
Both stores have such great deals I believe I'm better off with neither card, particularly considering I have to pay for it up front, and have declined to renew either card. I think most discount stores lure the unsuspecting shopper thinking they are going to get deals, heh, heh, heh, but then they buy a bunch of junk at retail prices. I'm surprised how many people are still being lured into purported discount supermarkets, stores and outlets... outlets for your money, thats for sure. M.R. Frugal
Posted by: alicia at 08/01/2008 04:40:48 PM
I have had memberships at Sam's, Costco and BJ's at diffrent times. They are good if you have a big family and storage space. Don't buy perishables in bulk except for special events. I have also bought jewelery but only in BJ's, and the prices were better than retail, but you must do your homework check around and then make the purchase. Also don't fall for the upgraded membership.
Posted by: BeeBee at 08/07/2008 02:43:34 PM
We have been members at Sams's for years/ I now live about an hour away so only shop about once a month. I have saved money and lost money on produce that I was too overeager on, but all in all it is certainly worth the membership. We just purchased a new KING bedding set and saved a "bunch" also got two SERTA King pillows for $10. (At) Macy's (they) were $38 each!
Posted by: momto4 at 08/31/2008 05:36:55 PM
I love sam's and now that my 19 yr old works there I get a free membership! I waited till summer was almost done and recently bought a swimming pool that they had originaly for $384, marked down to $170. Of course since my son was working at the time it was marked down I got the good deal. My other children are a lilttle young for this big "16x42" pool, but it will be worth it when I put it up next summer and my lil ones are a little older to enjoy it.Also I buy my fruits and cereals here because I have lots of mouths to feed, nothing goes bad. sam's also has the best rotisserie chicken ever, esp since it is still under $5 bucks each.
Posted by: Michael at 08/31/2008 09:00:42 PM
I bought an...Auto battery two years ago at Costco. It says "Three year FREE replacement warranty" right on top. It wnet bad. I took it back to Costco. They refunded my money and sold me a new one for $40 more!! AND charged me NINE more dollars for the used battery that I didn't have because they refunded my money and it was now theirs. so That's $49 for the FREE replacement!
Posted by: Leslie at 08/31/2008 09:18:05 PM
I only shop at BJ's or Sam's Club when they offer a trial membership without a surcharge. BJ's offers me a trial membership about 3 times a year. That way, I save on the annual membership fee, pay no surcharge and still get the bargains (mostly I buy bottled water and toilet tissue).
Posted by: CHRIS at 09/01/2008 12:01:27 AM
...I MUST TELL YOU THIS FOLKS! IF YOU COMPARE MANY FOOD ITEMS, YOU WILL SEE THAT YOU SAVE A BUNDLE AT SAMS CLUB. IT IS WELL WORTH THE YEARLY MEMBERSHIP. I WORK THERE - AND LOVE IT. I GET MANY OF MY STAPLES THERE, FROM MY SUGAR TO COFFEEMATE. BELIEVE ME, IF YOU WANT SOFT DRINKS, BUY THEM AT SAMS. A CASE OF CANNED SODA COSTS LESS THAN $7.00 WHILE YOU PAY AS MUCH AS $1.00 PER DRINK AT A QUICK STOP! MANY BULK ITEMS WILL LAST YOU FOR MONTHS OR WEEKS, AND HELP YOU SAVE ON GAS. I ALSO GET MY GAS AT SAMS, AND YOU BET I HAVE SAVED A TON ON THAT ALONE. DO NOT KNOCK IT UNTIL YOU HAVE TRIED IT....
Posted by: phil at 09/01/2008 12:12:39 AM
Costco,its CEO, board of directers, and great emloyee' are a blessing to this world !! I wish its CEO Jim Sinegal was president of the U.S.A. however I know he would never run for that position because of the waste of money it takes to get there. Those that are elected to those higher offices should ask for for his opinion.
Posted by: dsloger at 09/01/2008 01:28:15 AM
I've shopped at Costco for 20 yrs and love it!!! Yes you do have to be careful, but sometimes they have really great deals and things i haven't seen any place else, but those things usually go really fast. we replaced old carpet with hardwood flooring from costco. It looks great and was less than 1/2 the price of Home Depot. Between Schwans foods that delivers and costco i hardly ever go to the grocery store anymore and that alone save me money. How many times have you gone in for 2 things and come out with a cart full? If you do that on a weekly basis it adds up but if you only go to costco occasionally you save money in the long run.
Posted by: pennypincher at 09/01/2008 03:23:12 AM
I have shopped Sams for year on a monthly base for food & cleaning supplies, fill all my perscriptions there, I save plenty even after my club cost. Well with it to me, and we are a 3 member family,I save on gas by not having to go out weekly also.
Posted by: Jim at 09/01/2008 03:37:34 AM
Watch Costco's coupons. I recently bought two 100 pack Sony DVD's. They were prices at $29.97 ea. with a buy one get one free coupon sent in their Passport coupon books. The rub is, the were priced at $22.99 ea. shortly before the coupon price was effective.
Posted by: Aconsumer at 09/01/2008 04:43:10 AM
Hmmmm.....a Kate Spade purse or Ralph Lauren coat? If one can afford THAT kind of pricy stuff, WHY even bother with such a lowly institution like Costco or Sam's Club?!! I personally think it's a bit on the ludicrous side to spend upwards of $150-$200 on a purse. C'mon now, how great can they be made, and, besides, should they be stolen, think of how much greater one's loss is! Status symbols? Yup, in some cases, I think so!
Posted by: Gerri Adams at 09/10/2008 05:09:07 PM
I am so dedicated to Costco and its products that I would not live in an area that didn't have a Costco close by.
Posted by: Bruno at 09/11/2008 12:12:54 AM
One of the best deals at Costco is the coffee - Look for the Costco stores that have their own coffee roasting machines in the store. The Columbian Supremo is excellent and at $8 - $9 for a 2.5 pound bag is an outstanding bargain. It's actually fresher roasted than many of the so-called 'premium' brands like Starbucks, Coffee Bean, or Peets because they roast it on-site in each individual warehouse store on an as-needed basis. What I save on Coffee alone over the course of a year makes up for the membership fee.
Posted by: M Rogers at 09/12/2008 02:03:52 PM
I love Costco for many reasons, but the number #1 reason is they carry everything I need under one roof. I can buy food, electronics, auto products, furniture and personal items. This alone saves me hours of additional driving and time. The quality of the products are above average and lets not forget the price savings.
Posted by: FredM at 09/13/2008 08:16:21 PM
...What a bunch of already obvious advice.
Posted by: Gene SirLouis at 09/13/2008 08:29:05 PM
Never known Costco gas to be more than anyone else and never waited in line. And I trust Costco much more than I trust an off-brand station selling watered-down gas.
Posted by: Annette A at 09/13/2008 08:46:01 PM
For those who were disappointed with the lack of any real "tips", here's one for you. Prices that end in .97 at Costco and .81 at Sam's Club are marked down from their original prices. I got this information from their own employees. Check it out after Christmas or at the end of summer when they want to get rid of seasonal items.
Posted by: marie at 09/13/2008 09:47:47 PM
In our experience, the following factoid from the article was totally untrue: "You're on your own when it comes to getting that hot tub off the warehouse floor and into your car (order online and the clubs will deliver). You'll do the installing, too." We bought our hot tub from Costco. The company doing the roadshow delivered it and even got a crane to lift it onto our deck. We did have to hire an electrician to wire it, however.
Posted by: Robert J at 09/13/2008 10:10:11 PM
I always hate to cut that $50.00 check for Costco, but when we needed cancer meds for my son that was not covered under Med A Cal the cost was $61.00 at the Drug Stores. COSTCO Price $12.00. I saved my membership cost in one trip.
Posted by: Miss Dorothy at 09/13/2008 10:18:22 PM
I can order on line at SAMs and they open at 7am pick up my stuff without shopping, COSTCO doesn't open until 10:30 and that is way to late for tending my business. I don't have time to play in a store I have a busness to run. I also hate the sampling because the carts congregate and you can't do your shopping. At 7am at SAM's you go in and out quickly. Love it, especially when I can shop at 2am online and pick up my stuff all packaged and ready to go. That is the way a business helps small business' not waiting until 10:30 am to open.
Posted by: Kirk Griffiths at 09/13/2008 10:50:51 PM
Some items offered are priced lower than elsewhere. But, as a single person, I don't need to buy a lot of items in bulk quantities. And, when I need to buy tires frequently and I have found if I do buy them, I can catch a deal at a discount tire store, rather than a Costco. Big screen T.V.'s are also cheaper at a Best Buy or Circuit City and you can bargain them down a bit on price and still get free delivery and basic set up. So, is it worth it for me to justify the $50/year membership fee? Not really.
Posted by: President Merv at 09/13/2008 11:37:13 PM
Costco's Kirkland brand offers great value for paper towels and laundry detergent. High quality, economical prices. The seafood is usually a good value too. The worst values are the drinks--fruit juices and sodas. Stock up during supermarket sales and you'll do a lot better.
Posted by: Sandy at 09/14/2008 01:25:05 AM
No membership is required to fill prescriptions at Costco. Anyone can go into any Costco Pharmacy and fill an Rx.
Posted by: Jerry at 09/14/2008 02:21:48 AM
The disadvantage? NEVER buy a camera, a ceiling fan, a printer from a discount club! I bought a ceiling fan - opened it up at home - The lamps are only 40 watts times three or four, depending on the style of the lamp...Sure they may have a great "just bring it back" policy! Do you enjoy messing arounfdfor half a day, after the grief of specding hours or dollars installing the thing, of rounding up the packaging and driving the thing back to the store? Printers? I took one home, trusting HP after years of good service from other printers. The thing met the specs on the box HOWEVER ir rattled and...growled something terrible. The warm up time was not acceptable, The angle of the too small and too dim screen was impossible to see if you were "older", impossible to see from the chair in front of the desk....If you have any health concerns there is no low sodium or low calorie choice for the most part. Especially in the snack bar! And cameras? I see hundreds of people screwing around with the cameras. These customers do not have the faintest ides pf what the heck they are looking at! Go to two or three camera shops to buy a camera. Rent a used one... The big discount warehouse just shove anything out the door. Good price for great quantities...
Posted by: Robert R at 09/14/2008 04:58:29 AM
We just joined Costco, mainly because of the fish selection and cost. In a year, savings will cover the $50 membership. We bought a few other things because we were there, but selection was poor and cost per unit high. We'll stick to Walmart for everything else. I did get a laugh from Robert J's pharmacy comment. Hey Robert, you don't need a membership to use the Costco pharmacy.
Posted by: Brutal at 09/14/2008 03:04:04 PM
There is nothing wrong with buying large quantities of grocery items. You just have to repackage when you get it home. I save a lot of money by doing my bulk grocery shopping at Sam's. I don't eat anymore than I ever did. I just pay a lot less and only have to do major grocery shopping about every 3 to 4 months.
Posted by: Tracie at 09/27/2008 10:59:06 AM
It all chalks up to just knowing your prices. I have noticed that Costco and Bj's do not always carry the same brand on items I use regularly, so I cannot count on the stores inventory. If you pay full price for anything you are not shopping wisely, you should only purchase items on sale and with a coupon. I have a friend who lives in New York and she sends me her coupons and the dollar value is higher on them than the coupons in our area. I suggest if you can get out of state coupons in areas of higher prices, say Boston, NY etc. you have a potential of saving more.
Posted by: bgs at 10/04/2008 01:34:37 PM
Walmart..I'd rather not shop at all. Their customer service is horrible.
Posted by: Karen at 10/04/2008 03:27:09 PM
...The warehouse club might be fine for a few items but I find real bargains day in and day out at my local grocery chain, with or without a coupon. And I'm sorry, Chris, to compare the price of soft drinks at Sam's to a Quik Stop is pretty ridiculous. Sam's has lousy prices on soft drinks at my local club; the grocery chains beat them hands down all the time. I wonder what people are thinking when they buy overpriced items like Pepsi and Coke at Sam's. Perhaps they aren't thinking or don't really mind spending more.
Posted by: reg at 10/05/2008 04:20:09 PM
good article...and good points from the posts..i enjoy the savings of buying bulk. It all boils down to planning ahead. As for sam's club, no way..same with walmart-i shop at costco because the warehouse near me is union and takes care of their employees
Posted by: Connie at 11/08/2008 11:56:01 AM
Isnt anyone else having a hard time with money? Lack of? My daughter added me to her membership and I shopped Costco yesterday for the lst time. The check out was fast and service friendly. However, I had to listen to gossip of fellow workers about each other while getting my picture taken. Maybe I am old fashioned, but I expressed how as a customer I didnt appreciate hearing all that. And, all those Ralph Lauren, and name brands while beautiful new will wound up in my local resale shop in great condition, where many like me will snap them up. If you want real savings for real people who are struggling like us, shop your local resale shops. Plus you are contributing to recyling and often the shops are giving proceeds to the even more needy. I will continue to shop Costco for perhaps Christmas presents but only after I have comparison shopped. The bulk items arent a good deal for just the two of us . I had to really tell my tired feet to get what I came for and leave. I did however, enjoy strolling and viewing and all the free food samples!
Posted by: lisa at 11/10/2008 09:43:03 AM
Karen, what you type is sometimes true but not always. When you can buy a can of coke for .25 and the convenient store charges .75 -- I really think the Sam's price is better.
Posted by: Cindy at 07/05/2009 03:04:59 AM
...I had a Costco membership for several years and found it a waste of money. You have to fill up at least twice a week to just break even on the amount you spend for a membership. From watching shoppers in Costco, I think it encourages people to overspend more than anything else. I was made fun of once at checkout for buying only one item. I heard a story of a women that went to buy cheese and came home with a barbecue grill... I never found their prices to be any less than items I could find in grocery stores elsewhere, especially when items are on sale and you can stock up. If you want name brand items, are having parties or buying alcohol, it might be a good deal. Otherwise, save yourself the membership fee, the allure of being in an elite "club" and do your shopping elsewhere. Buy generic, comparison shop, shop sales and thrift shop. Club shoping is just another supersized American glutton of a shoping experience complete with oversized carts.