How Shopping At More Than One Costco Location Saves You Money

Different Costco locations offer different products and prices

While you can find Kirkland-brand bottled water at every Costco, no two locations offer the exact same products at the same prices. In fact, stores within the same city or even adjacent to one another may carry different merchandise and often at varying prices, influenced by each store's management. By visiting multiple Costco locations, you can take advantage of savings on a wide range of products, particularly those that are available in limited quantities or for a short time.

Costco warehouses tailor their inventory based on local demographics and demand, which is not surprising given that major retailers often adjust their stock by anticipating customer preferences and purchasing patterns. For instance, in snowy areas during winter, Costco stocks warm gloves and jackets. Additionally, sports enthusiasts can frequently find collegiate or professional merchandise, as well as discounted tickets for local teams at nearby warehouses.

In addition to product variety, prices can differ from one Costco location to another. Factors such as store managers, buying teams, suppliers, and local competition can all influence the pricing of specific items. The in-store prices can provide valuable insights into the savings you can expect. For the best bargains, look for prices that end in .88 or .00, as noted by ToughNickel. These significant discounts are determined by individual store managers, but keep in mind that they are typically associated with returned items, floor models, or products with limited stock remaining.

Are the savings worth the time and gas?

If you reside in an area with multiple Costco locations nearby, visiting each one might not be too much of a hassle. However, before you invest time and fuel traveling between them, you might be able to discover what each warehouse offers without stepping outside.

One advantage of living in the digital age is that retailer websites allow you to shop comfortably from home. You can use the Costco website to explore their online inventory available for delivery or set your preferred store location to see what items are in stock at that specific warehouse. If you're open to making a phone call, you can also reach out to local warehouses and inquire with Membership Services about the availability of a particular product. For efficiency, Costco suggests having the item number or product description on hand.

There are some limitations to the information you can gather without visiting a Costco warehouse. For instance, company policy prohibits disclosing product prices at individual locations online or via phone. However, you can subscribe to receive emails from Costco regarding promotions and deals specific to your location.

Shopping at multiple Costcos isn't for everyone, especially if you only have one location within an hour's drive. However, if you're fortunate enough to have several nearby, you might discover unique products and significant savings by exploring beyond your usual warehouse.