Costco Services

I have written about items other than food, including the optical department (Costco optical:my experience); (Costco Optical: Updated from recent experience)), appliances (e.g., Chromebook; (Product Review: Acer Chromebook)), clothing (e.g., robe; (Quick Product Review: Carole Hochman Ladies’ Plush Robe)), and gas (Got gas?). However, I still tend to associate Costco with groceries. I found a recent article discussing 15 services and thought it would help to highlight these services in a post. 

1. Travel

The author shares her experience finding good travel deals at Costco. She writes that Costco has both domestic and international options, as well as cruises. Members can find good deals on flights only, hotels only, or rental cars only, or package deals.

My family has used Costco’s travel deals to plan vacations in the past. My dad planned the trips and told me that by using the Costco deals, he saved hundreds of dollars on plane tickets and a hotel. He also said that he has saved hundreds of dollars through car rentals through Costco. 

2. Prescriptions and Pet Medications at the Pharmacy

According to the article, the pharmacy offers immunizations, prescription refills, virtual doctor visits, and pet prescription refills and pet insurance.

I have not used any of these services but find it helpful to know about them.

3. Premium Tires

Costco enables members to buy and have tires installed. By scheduling an appointment, the tire center will install them while members shop. In addition, Costco offers a 5-year road hazard warranty and Lifetime Maintenance Services that extend throughout the life of the tires you purchase-which includes flat repairs. 

For many years, my family has bought all of our tires from Costco. We have been very satisfied with the price, quality, and service. 

4. Home Insurance

The author reports saving on home insurance through Costco’s referred company, CONNECT. 

I was not aware of this benefit.

5. Auto-Buying Program

The article mentions the discounts available for auto loans.

My parents benefitted from Costco’s auto deals in an unusual way. They mentioned the price offered by Costco and the dealership actually offered them an even better deal.

6. Moving Cost Savings

Costco (along with Budget) enables members to rent trucks or vans for 25% off. 

Yet another option about which I was unaware.

7. Baby Supplies

Apparently, the Kirkland brand baby products are both good deals and quality. Specifically, the article mentions the baby wipes and the formula.

I have not bought these items but, again, I would trust Costco.

8. Specialty Cakes

The author shares that she has ordered cakes from Costco for special occasions. She writes about the good deals on them (half-sheet cake for 48 people is $24.99; 2-tier special occasion cake for 16 to 22 people and is $300). These cakes can be ordered online. 

I have not ordered a specialty cake from the bakery  but it is definitely a good deal as cakes for far fewer people cost more at supermarkets. I did not know about the fancier two-layer cakes and I don’t know how the pricing compares to other bakeries. However, I trust that it is a good deal. 

9. Wedding and Special Event Planning

Members planning weddings or other large events can benefit from Costco’s wedding rings, jewelry, floral arrangements, and savings at Shutterfly. 

I have written before about weddings or birthday parties at Costco in a joking way (Wedding registries and ceremonies at Costco??); (Would you Rather?: Costco Edition 2)). However, it is helpful to know about these other items. In addition, I have written about my savings with Shutterfly (Quick Review: Costco and Shutterfly).

10. Gas

The article draws attention to the gas stations that are at some Costco locations.

I have written about the gas at Costco before (Got gas?). My family purchases the vast majority of our gas at the Costco in Dedham, where it is usually 10-30¢ less per gallon than at other gas stations in the area.

11. Business Health Plans

Apparently, Costco (with CBC Health Insurance marketplace) offers health insurance options (including health, dental, and vision) for small businesses.

I did not know about this service as I do not own a small business. It is a good service to know about for those who do. 

12. Free Tech Support

Members can use online guides or telephone supports for technical assistance on purchased items. 

I didn’t know about this service but I am glad yo learn about it. I am not great with technology and although Google is very helpful, sometimes it is better to be able to speak with a person.

13. Free Delivery

The author reports on her experiences with free delivery of large items, including freezers, mini fridges, furniture, food, and staples.

My family has used this service for delivery of chairs and mattresses. 

14. Checks

Apparently, Costco (with Harland Clarke Check printing company) sells personal and business checks (additional benefits for Executive members (Costco Executives)).

I did not know about this service. I don’t write many checks and get them from the bank. I am assuming that Costco would sell checks in large quantities, but it may be worth looking into.

15. Costco Business Delivery

The article recommends that small businesses consider membership. They can order office supplies in bulk, office furniture, storage options, and bottled water delivery. 

I actually can’t remember whether it was Costco or BJ’s, but I remember my office getting deliveries of office supplies and peanut butter pretzels (if Costco, these pretzels (New Snacks for 2024)). Since COVID, I have worked from home and that is likely to continue. However, if I ever do end up in an office, I can suggest that my boss look into a membership. 

Were you aware of these services offered by Costco? If you’ve used them, would you recommend them? If not, will you use them now?