GROCERY GRIPE
‘What’s the difference?’ blasts Costco member over confusing ‘transaction’ rule – but you won’t find it in fine print
The member didn't know that the rule was real
ONE Costco member is baffled over a store policy they never even knew existed.
The shopper shared her gripes about the situation on a community Facebook.
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In her post, shopper Lisa Morris shared her confusion and frustration after being told she couldn't perform two transactions in a row at the warehouse club, despite not finding any such rule in Costco's terms and conditions.
According to Lisa, she attempted to make two purchases consecutively using her Costco membership card and two credit cards, all in her name.
The cashier informed her that while she could leave the store and return to make a second purchase immediately, she wasn't allowed to conduct two transactions back-to-back without leaving the store.
"WTF is the difference?" she questioned.
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The post received various comments, with several members of the community sharing their thoughts and experiences.
One commenter suggested that if encountering such confusion, it would be prudent to ask for a supervisor to clarify the policy.
They noted that it seemed some cashiers might have their own interpretations or were not explaining the rules clearly.
This commenter also mentioned never having encountered rude Costco employees in their numerous shopping trips.
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Another person shared a different experience, stating they didn't face any issues when using the self-service checkout.
Costco announces first membership fee increase in seven years as shoppers terrified what it could mean for beloved item
However, they did encounter an attitude from the employee checking receipts upon exiting the store.
In a related incident, another community member recounted how their sister-in-law forgot her Costco card and tried to use theirs.
Although they were eventually allowed to make the purchase, they were given a stern lecture about treating the Costco card like a driver's license, emphasizing that it shouldn't be shared, they said.
MORE ABOUT MEMBER POLICIES
While the policy enforced upon Lisa is not highlighted on the Costco website, there are others that you should take note of.
Joining Costco provides members access to a wide range of benefits and exclusive savings.
Costco membership sharing guidelines
Costco has strict rules for membership use that shoppers must follow and they've been cracking down on offenders in recent years.
- Primary Member Use: Only the primary cardholder can use this Costco membership card. Sharing it for purchases is not allowed as the photo on the card must match the person using it.
- Household Card: Each primary member can add one free household cardholder who lives at the same address. This person will receive their own membership card and can shop at Costco independently.
- Guest Policy: Members can bring up to two guests per visit to Costco. However, only the member can make purchases. Guests must be accompanied by the member.
- Authorized Cardholder: For an additional fee, you can add an authorized cardholder, such as a family member or friend, who doesn't reside at your address. They will receive their own card and can shop independently.
Credit: Costco
Understanding the terms and conditions of your membership can help you maximize your experience and ensure a smooth shopping journey.
Your Costco membership fee covers a 12-month period from the date you enroll as a Primary Cardholder, per membership terms and conditions.
Your membership card grants you access to any Costco warehouse worldwide.
Membership cards are strictly non-transferable, meaning that only the cardholder may use the card.
Upon entry to any Costco, you must present your membership card as well as at checkout. Bar codes, photos, or other copies of the card are not acceptable.
A valid membership card must have a card number and a recognizable, unobstructed full-face photo of the member.
Membership cards remain the property of Costco and must be returned upon request.
Primary and Affiliate Members can receive one additional card for a designated household member over the age of 16 living at the same address.
This designated member must show proof of residence and have their photo taken for their card.
Each person is limited to one Gold Star and one Business Membership, if applicable.
In some states, nonmembers may purchase specific merchandise, including prescription drugs and alcoholic beverages, as required by law.
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Meanwhile, Walmart has also rolled out the technology at some of its stores with one customer calling it the "stupidest idea they ever had."
And Costco shoppers left behind $500 worth of groceries after a "repulsive experience" due to a card membership rule.