Shopping at Costco feels like being part of an exclusive club. You flash your membership card at the door, grab a cart the size of a small boat, and set off on a mission for bargain bulk buys. But if you push your luck too far, Costco might show you the exit, and not just the one by the rotisserie chickens.
Most members know about the free samples and generous return policy, but few realize how easy it is to get banned. Costco doesn’t mess around, whether it’s breaking membership rules or acting out in the aisles. Here’s what you need to avoid if you don’t want your membership revoked.
Bullying Other Customers
Costco aisles can get crowded. But if you block traffic, argue over samples, or yell at someone who grabbed the last $4.99 rotisserie chicken, you’re crossing a line. Costco has a zero-tolerance policy for fights or intimidation.
Abusing the Return Policy
Yes, Costco has a famously generous return policy. Yes, you can return that pressure cooker from two years ago. However, if you frequently return items or bring back those that have been used, such as empty wine bottles or food with only a few bites left, Costco will likely notice. Abuse it, and you’re likely to lose it.
Shoplifting or Switching Price Tags
Seems obvious, but you’d be surprised how many people try it. Swapping price tags, hiding items in other boxes, or even snacking your way through the store without paying could get you permanently banned, and maybe arrested.
Disrespecting Employees
Costco takes employee treatment seriously. If you curse out a cashier or yell at the person checking receipts, you’re risking more than embarrassment. According to Glassdoor reviews, Costco has a high employee rating of 3.9/5. That loyalty goes both ways; they will ban a member who makes the work environment hostile.
Fraudulent Coupon Use
Costco doesn’t accept manufacturer coupons. All promotions are handled internally. But some people still try to sneak in outside deals, doctored barcodes, or expired offers. Trying to con the register system is a fast way to lose your shopping privileges. It’s also just awkward when it doesn’t work.
Violating the Food Court Rules
That $1.50 hot dog deal is famous, but it’s not open to the general public. Only members can buy from the food court at most locations. Some stores check for membership cards, especially during peak hours. Costco has tightened enforcement after non-members flooded food courts. Breaking the rule might not get you banned immediately, but repeated offenses could.
Giving Your Membership Card to Another Person
That shiny Costco card is for you and you alone. Lending it to a friend or roommate might seem harmless, but employees are trained to check the photo and ask for ID if something looks off. If you’re caught, your account can be canceled on the spot.
Bringing in Too Many Guests
You’re allowed to bring two guests per visit, but that doesn’t mean you can walk in with your entire basketball team. If you do it often, store managers may flag your account for violating policy. If your friends love Costco, they should get their cards.
Scalping Costco Products
Some folks try to resell Kirkland items online for money. Think diapers, toilet paper, or seasonal goods that fly off the shelves. Costco doesn’t like that one bit. If they trace resales back to your membership, they can shut it down immediately.
Repeatedly Ignoring Mask or Health Guidelines
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Costco enforced mask mandates and social distancing. Members who refused to comply were shown the door. Even now, the company expects compliance with local regulations for health. Arguing or refusing to follow rules could get you kicked out, especially if you cause a scene.
Disclaimer – This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information. It is not intended to be professional advice.
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