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Costco warehouse stores are popular with members because of their wide selection and low prices on bulk items, but if you search the company's website for a deal, some items might be more expensive than expected.
A new report from House Beautiful has found that some products — from furniture to Halloween decorations — are more expensive online than in-store, even though Costco advertises that shipping is free for members.
Related: Costco CEO raises hourly wages for employees
For example, the outlet reports that a bouclé swivel chair reportedly cost $249 in store but was $399.99 online, so the shipping cost for that item must have gone up to $150. An animatronic werewolf cost $249.99 in store but was $339.99 online.
“Each product on Costco.com has its own shipping cost (although many items ship at no additional charge). If shipping costs apply, you can find them on the product detail page to the right of the product image,” Costco's shipping policy states.
The outlet also pointed to Reddit boards (a few years old) dedicated to deciphering the fees, including one with a spreadsheet.
Costco online price compared to store price on my last visit
byu/ponder_life inCostco
Costco explains that most items are shipped directly from suppliers and manufacturers who set their own shipping rates, so the warehouse chain cannot waive the fees.
Earlier this month, Costco announced that the company would increase annual membership fees for all plans in the U.S. and Canada, effective September 1, 2024.
Related: Costco CEO says this product is 'the most important item we sell'
The news came after the company reported its third-quarter 2024 earnings in May, including $1.123 million in membership fees, up 7.6% from the same period last year.
Costco saw a year-over-year increase of over 44% through Friday afternoon.
The entrepreneur turned to Costco for clarification.
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