Costco Return Policy: A Detailed Guide
Simplify returns with our Costco return policy guide. Everything you need to know, explained step-by-step
Costco is known for its customer-friendly return policy. In this article, we’ll explain all the details about Costco return policy, so you’ll know exactly how to make returns or exchanges if needed.
Return Policy Overview
Here’s a quick summary of Costco’s return policy:
| Feature | Return Window/Details |
|---|---|
| Costco Membership | Can be canceled anytime for a full refund. |
| Most Merchandise | No time limit; return anytime if unsatisfied. |
| Electronics | Must be returned within 90 days of receipt. |
| Diamonds (1.00ct or larger) | Require original paperwork; authenticity checked by a gemologist. |
| Cigarettes and Alcohol | Non-returnable where prohibited by law. |
| Custom Products | Non-returnable unless they fail to meet specifications. |
| Airline/Event Tickets | Non-refundable. |
| Precious Metals | Non-refundable. |
| Shop Cards and Gift Cards | Non-refundable. |
| Products with Limited Life | Warranty terms apply (e.g., tires, batteries). |
General Merchandise
Costco offers a risk-free 100 % satisfaction guarantee on most products. If you’re unhappy with your purchase, you can return it at any time, with some exceptions.
Electronics Return Policy
Electronics like TVs, laptops, smartwatches, and cameras must be returned within 90 days. If you have issues with these products, Costco provides technical support and warranty services. Contact their Concierge Services for help.
Jewelry Return Policy
For diamonds that are 1.00 carat or larger, you need to present the original certificates (e.g., IGI or GIA). After return, the diamond is inspected by a Costco gemologist for authenticity within 48 hours.
Exceptions to the Costco Return Policy
Some items cannot be returned or have specific rules:
- Cigarettes and Alcohol: Non-refundable where prohibited by law.
- Diamonds (over 1.00 carat): Must include the original IGI/GIA certificates.
- Custom Products: Made-to-order items are non-returnable unless they fail to meet specifications.
- Airline Tickets and Event Tickets: Non-refundable.
- Precious Metals: Non-refundable.
- Shop Cards, Gift Cards, and Tickets: Non-refundable.
- Tires and Batteries: Limited by their specific warranties.
How to Return an Item
You can return items in two main ways:
1. Return to a Costco Warehouse
- Visit any Costco warehouse.
- Bring your item and receipt (if possible).
- Refunds, including shipping fees for online orders, are processed immediately.
2. Return Online
- Log in to your Costco.com account.
- Go to “Orders & Returns” and select the order you want to return.
- Follow the instructions to print a return label or schedule a pickup for large items.
Note: For items like jewelry, food, and floral products, additional processing time might be required.
Refund Methods
- Refunds are processed to the original payment method.
- Return shipping is free for online purchases.
- Additional processing time may apply for some items.
Price Adjustment Policy
If the price of a purchased item drops within 30 days, you can request a price adjustment. Here are the details:
- Applies to non-resale members only.
- Resellers must follow promotional terms to qualify.
- Items like gold bullion are excluded.
- Costco doesn’t match prices from other retailers or Costco warehouses
Tips for Returning Items
- Keep your receipt to make the process faster.
- For large electronics, check the 90-day return window.
- Online returns are convenient if you live far from a Costco store.
Contact Costco
For any assistance with returns, refunds, or warranties, reach out to Costco:
- Online Orders: 1-800-955-2292
Phone Hours: Monday–Friday: 5 AM–8 PM (PT), Saturday–Sunday: 5 AM–7 PM (PT)
Chat Hours: Same as phone hours - Membership & Warehouse Support: 1-800-774-2678
Phone Hours: Monday–Friday: 6 AM–6 PM (PT), Saturday–Sunday: 8 AM–5 PM (PT)
Chat Hours: Same as phone hours - Find Your Local Warehouse: Use Costco’s Warehouse Locator online.
If you have any more questions about the returns, you can visit the return policy on their website.
The following video from CostcoZaddy provides a good summary of Costco’s return policy.
FAQs
Summary
Costco’s return policy is one of the most generous in retail, making shopping there worry-free. Whether you’re unhappy with a product or simply changed your mind, Costco ensures a smooth return process. Always keep track of exceptions like electronics, diamonds, and custom items to avoid surprises.
