COSTCO has a notoriously generous return policy that allows members to bring most merchandise back for a full refund.
Except, there are some exceptions, with the warehouse retailer firmly rejecting at least 10 items.
Costco is famous for its return policy[/caption]
Some merchandise isn’t allowed to be taken back (stock image)[/caption]
Each is described in detail on Costco’s website, where it promises a “risk-free 100% satisfaction guarantee.”
That goes for memberships, which can be canceled or refunded at any time should a consumer be unhappy with it.
For products, Costco says it will “guarantee your satisfaction on every product we sell, and will refund your purchase price, with the following exceptions.”
At the top of the list of non-returnables are electronics.
Except it’s not a full-stop rule, as Costco continue to accepts electronic returns within 90 days from the date that the member made the purchase for televisions, projectors, major appliances, freezers, ranges, cooktops, over-the-range and under-counter microwaves, dishwashers, range hoods, dishwashers, water heaters, washer and dryers, and more.
Computers, touchscreen tablets, cameras, phones, and other gadgets are also included in that list.
After the 90-day window, however, electronics can’t be returned.
Diamonds that are 1.0-carat or larger can’t be returned to Costco as well without all original paperwork.
Should all the paperwork be in order, the diamond must first be evaluated for authenticity by a Costco Graduate Gemologist.
Cigarettes and alcohol also cannot be returned to Costco locations where it is prohibited by state law.
“Products with a limited useful life expectancy,” like tires and batteries, cannot be taken back after purchase either, should they have a product-specific limited warranty on them.
Other barred returns include special order kiosk and custom installed programs, airline and live performance event items, precious metals, and Shop Cards.
Gift cards and other ticket items are also “non-refundable,” per the policy.
Lastly, any recreational carts ordered online can be returned within 90 days for the date a member received the product, but after that window (similar to electronics), they cannot be taken back.
Costco Return Policy
What are the details of the famous return policy?
“We guarantee your satisfaction on every product we sell, and will refund your purchase price,” the return policy states.
There are a few exceptions to this 100% satisfaction guarantee which are:
- Electronics – Returns will be accepted within 90 days of the date the member received the product.
- Diamonds – 1.00ct or larger must be returned with all original paperwork within 48 hours and they will be inspected for authenticity.
- Cigarettes and alcohol – These items cannot be returned by law.
- Items with a limited useful life expectancy such as batteries and tires cannot be returned.
- Special Order Kiosk and Custom Installed Programs can only be returned or refunded if under warranty repair/replacement.
- Gold bullion, bars, and silver coins are non-refundable.
- Shop Cards are non-refundable.
- Airline and Live Performance Event items are non-refundable.
Costco memberships can be canceled and refunded at any time if a customer is dissatisfied.
RETURNS ACCEPTED
Despite the 10 exceptions, some Costco members have had some surprisingly successful returns over the years.
A member witnessed someone else return two 10-year-old mattresses with pee stains on them, for example.
Others took back “half eaten” food held together by rubber bands.
Costco’s “unbeatable” return policy even allowed a member to take back a 13-year-old kitchen item for a full refund.
MORE TO COME
The warehouse retail giant is also working to expand in the coming years, with a goal of 914 locations worldwide by the end of 2025.
CEO Ron Vachris recently committed to 30 new openings annually moving forward.
At least four new Costco locations opened last month in Florida, Nevada, and Texas.
Three others are set to open by October 31 in Michigan, Pennsylvania, and South Carolina.
Costco also recently gave a first look at a major food court change that’s been in the works for months, and it caused controversy among customers.
There was even member backlash over a “pricey” new food court item with a fan-favorite twist.
