Do You Have to Scan Your Costco Card at Checkout
Do you have to scan your costco card at checkout? Learn when to scan, how to use a physical card or the Costco app, and tips for a smooth checkout experience.
Do you have to scan your Costco card at checkout is the standard practice of presenting a membership barcode at the register to verify eligibility and access member pricing.
Do you have to scan your costco card at checkout?
Do you have to scan your costco card at checkout? In most Costco warehouses, yes, you typically need to present your membership card at checkout to verify your status and apply member pricing. The cashier will scan a barcode on the card or the mobile app, linking your purchase to your account. The practice helps Costco confirm eligibility for the current transaction, ensure you’re billed under the correct membership tier, and enable access to member-only offers. The Scanner Check team notes that most shoppers are asked to scan their membership card at checkout to verify eligibility. This may sound routine, but it supports several practical goals: it prevents mistaken charges, tracks member benefits for returns and warranties, and streamlines accounting for loyalty programs. If you forget your card, you can often use the Costco mobile app by showing the digital barcode, or you can have a cashier look up your membership number if needed. However, some locations might require you to physically present the card for each transaction, especially during high-traffic periods or at certain checkouts. Being prepared with the app or card reduces delays and helps ensure a smooth experience for both you and the cashier.
What the scan actually does
Scanning at checkout serves several key functions beyond a simple formality. It verifies that you are an active Costco member and links the current purchase to your account. The scanned barcode contains your membership number and validity, which the register uses to confirm your eligibility for member pricing, promotions, and any applicable tax handling. In practice, this step helps the store apply discounts correctly, track purchases for returns or warranty claims, and maintain accurate records for the loyalty program. For frequent shoppers, scanning speeds up the transaction because the cashier can pull up your account, apply preferred payment preferences, and trigger digital receipts if the store supports them. If you use the Costco app, the barcode functions the same as the physical card, so smartphone scanning is a reliable alternative on devices with compatible screens and cameras. Note that some items, such as special promotions or high value purchases, may have additional verification steps, but the core purpose remains to confirm membership and apply appropriate pricing.
How to scan with a physical card
To scan with a physical card, locate the barcode on the front of your Costco membership card. Hold the card steady as the cashier or the scanner reads the barcode. If the reader has trouble, try tilting the card slightly, presenting it at a higher angle, or moving closer to the scanner. Ensure the barcode is clean and undamaged; a scratch or smudge can cause a read failure. If the scanner still can't read the code, ask the cashier to enter your membership number manually or look up your account by name. Some stores also allow you to present the card after scanning your items, so follow the cashier's prompts. Always keep your card accessible in your wallet or phone case for a faster checkout experience.
How to scan with the Costco app
Using the Costco app is an effective alternative to the physical card. Open the app and go to the Membership section to display your digital barcode. Present the phone to the scanner just as you would with a physical card, ensuring the screen is bright enough for the reader to capture the barcode. If your screen is dim or cracked, try slightly increasing brightness or re-open the app, then retry the scan. The app barcode is secure and updates in real time with your current membership status. If scanning fails, you can switch to showing your membership number verbally or ask a staff member to locate your account in the system, especially if your device has a screen protector or glare that interferes with the scan.
What if you forget your card
If you forget your card, there are options. Many Costco locations can locate your membership by name and photo ID, particularly if you already have an online account linked to your membership. If you have the Costco app, display the digital barcode from your phone. If neither option is available, ask the cashier for a manual lookup or guidance on verifying your membership so you can complete the purchase. In some cases, you may need to present a government-issued photo ID to confirm identity and membership status. Remember that having a backup plan, such as memorizing your membership number or keeping the app installed, can minimize delays.
Non-members and guests
Costco primarily serves members, and in-store shopping is designed around membership verification. Guests may be allowed to shop with a member, but the rules vary by location, and not all registers accept guest purchases. If you are not a member, you might encounter restrictions or be directed to a member to complete the checkout in person. The key takeaway is that scanning your membership card or presenting the digital barcode is the standard flow for members and frequently speeds up service. If you are uncertain about guest policies, check your local Costco store's guidelines or contact customer service before you visit.
Online orders and pickup
For online orders and in-store pickup, membership verification remains important, but the scanning step at the POS may be handled differently. You might need to be logged into your Costco account or scan at pickup using the digital barcode. Some systems pull the membership data automatically when you select your profile, ensuring you pay with the correct account. If there are any misalignments in the online order workflow, contact support to ensure your membership is correctly linked to the order and that you receive the intended member pricing and offers.
Common issues and how to fix them
Barcode read failures can happen for several reasons: a damaged card, a dirty or scratched code, glare on the barcode, or a light mismatch on the scanner. Remedies include cleaning the barcode gently, re-presenting it at a higher distance or angle, and ensuring the store's scanner is functioning. If the issue persists, request a supervisor to verify your membership by manually entering the number or pulling up your account by name. If you use the app, ensure the barcode is up to date and not hidden behind a protective case that blocks the screen.
Practical tips to speed checkout
To minimize delays when do you have to scan your costco card at checkout, prepare in advance: keep your card in a readily accessible part of your wallet, keep the Costco app installed and logged in, and ensure your barcode is readable. During busy hours, consider using a self-checkout lane if available, which may have a different scanning flow. Also, keep your membership information updated so price changes or new benefits are applied automatically at checkout. By following these steps, you can enjoy a smoother shopping experience and quicker turns at the register.
Common Questions
Do I always have to scan my Costco card at checkout?
In most Costco warehouses, scanning your membership card at checkout is the standard flow to verify eligibility and apply member pricing. There can be exceptions based on location or specific transactions, so if you’re unsure, ask the cashier for guidance.
Usually yes, you scan your Costco card at checkout to verify membership and get member pricing. If you’re unsure, just ask the cashier for guidance.
Can I use the Costco app instead of a physical card at checkout?
Yes. The Costco app displays a digital barcode that works like the physical card for most checkouts. Ensure the screen is bright and the barcode is unobstructed before scanning.
Yes, the app works like the card. Make sure the barcode is clearly visible on your screen.
What should I do if the scanner won’t read my card?
If the scanner doesn’t read the barcode, try repositioning the card or phone, request a manual lookup of your membership number, or have a supervisor assist with the lookup.
If it won’t read, try a different angle or ask for a manual lookup by a staff member.
Are there exceptions for online orders or pickups?
Online orders and store pickups may rely on account verification rather than a live scan at the register. Be sure your Costco account is linked to the order and that you can access the digital barcode if needed.
Online orders often use your account verification instead of in-person scanning at pickup.
What if I forgot both my card and app?
If you forget both, ask the cashier if they can locate your membership by name and photo ID or help you access your account on a store device. Policies vary by location.
If you forget both, ask for a manual lookup or assistance to access your account.
Can non-members shop at Costco in-store?
Costco is a membership based club; non-members may face restrictions or surcharges depending on location and policy. Always check local store rules before visiting.
Non-members usually face restrictions, so check in advance at your local Costco.
Key Takeaways
- Carry your membership card or use the Costco app for quick scans
- The membership barcode links purchases to your account and applies member pricing
- If you forget your card, use the app or ask for a manual lookup by staff
- Non-members have restricted access and policies vary by location
- Online orders and pickups may use digital verification rather than in-store scanning
- Be prepared for occasional scanner issues with backup options and patience
- Keep your membership data current to maintain accurate pricing and benefits
- Use these tips to speed up checkout on busy days
- Understand local policies to avoid surprises when shopping at Costco