Costco Is Now Requiring Customers Using Self-Checkout To Present Their Membership Cards

Costco is putting a stop to non-members using membership cards during self-checkout.

In light of an increase in the availability of its self-checkout service, Costco has announced that it will now require self-checkout customers to present their membership cards. The decision came after observing that “non-member shoppers have been using membership cards that do not belong to them.” Costco believes that it’s unfair for non-members to receive the same benefits and pricing as its members.

As part of its membership policy, Costco has explicitly stated online that its membership cards are “non-transferable.” The cards are intended for individual use and should not be shared or used by someone other than the cardholder.

According to the company’s webpage, members have the option to “assign their free household card to one other person” who resides with them. This allows the assigned person to enjoy the benefits of membership as well. However, it’s important to note that purchasing items at Costco is exclusive to the members. In addition to the assigned household card, individual cardholders are permitted to bring up to two guests with them when visiting the store.

Furthermore, Costco emphasized the significance of its membership fee and structure. The membership fees contribute to offsetting operational expenses, allowing Costco to offer competitive prices to its members.

Last year, Costco generated $1.04 billion in revenues from membership fees in the third quarter. The revenues were a 6% increase from the $984 million in the previous year.