15 Things To Know Before Buying Costco Cell Phones
Costo Has A Generous Return Window
Before buying something as expensive as an iPad or a new iPhone, it’s essential to know Costco’s return policy.
Fortunately, electronics and cell phones qualify for Costco’s generous 90-day return window.
So, if you’re unsatisfied with your iPad or iPhone, you can initiate a return at a Costco warehouse or through costco.com.
Before you return your item in person, be sure to have the original receipt.
At Costco, the iPads and iPhones are in a distinct area of the store, usually at a separate kiosk by the other electronics.
These kiosks can be staffed by Costco associates who are knowledgeable and available to answer your questions about service plans or product features.
Therefore, you can confidently purchase a new iPhone or iPad knowing you have all the information you need.
There are three different wireless carriers available
Costco offers a variety of cell phone providers that can be used to provide the services you need.
That said, Costco offers plans from Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile at the wireless kiosks inside the warehouse.
Further, these cell phone plans are operated by an external company called Wireless Advocates.
Costco offers service plans that are similar to those offered by carriers. An associate can help you choose the best plan for you.
Costco is currently not a partner of discount mobile phone companies like Cricket Wireless or Boost Mobile.
Cons
- Annual fee $95
- No introductory 0% APR
- Estimated rewards earned after 1 year: $1,506
Rewards totals incorporate the points earned from the welcome bonus
Who’s this for? This is the Chase Sapphire Preferred, one of the most popular travel credit cards and it pairs well with two other Chase cards. Chase Sapphire Preferred cardholders get 5X points for travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards(r), and 3X points for dining. All other purchases are eligible to earn 2X points.
This card is notable for the strong redemption rate when you redeem points for travel via Chase Ultimate Rewards. Points are worth 25% more, so the 80,000-point welcome bonus is worth up to $1,000 toward travel booked through Chase Ultimate Rewards (you need to spend $4,000 within the first three months to earn the bonus). This is a great way to maximize the value of points and the welcome bonus.
Beyond rewards, cardholders can benefit from helpful travel perks, such as a $50 annual Ultimate Rewards Hotel Credit, no foreign transaction fees, trip cancellation/interruption insurance, auto rental collision damage waiver, travel and emergency assistance services, baggage delay insurance and trip delay reimbursement.
10 Electronics To Buy At Costco If You Want To Save
Costco is known for its cheap chickens, super-sized toilet paper packages and other household products.
If you’re in the market for electronics — and a member of the warehouse club — wander the aisles or surf the website before making a purchase. Costco offers some of the most affordable electronics and a bonus if your purchase does not go through.
Julie Ramhold of DealNews.com, a consumer analyst said that Costco offers great savings all year. The store offers great deals almost every day on electronics. They also have monthly savings events that you can take advantage of both in-store or online. The best thing is that Costco sends these mailers out early so that you have them before the events begin and you can plan ahead, which means you don’t have to worry about rushing to the website or store the day the sales begin to find out what’s been discounted.”
Plus, Ramhold said, the return policy is extra-generous.
She stated that many retailers offer returns policies of 14 days for electronics. Costco, however, will accept returns in 90 days on select electronics categories, including TVs, projectors and touchscreen tablets as well as smart watches and cameras.
What are the Best Electronic Deals at Costco?
However, Did You Also Know That Costco Is A Big-Box Retailer And Sells Liquor As Well?
Keep reading for the top 15 things you should do before buying Costco liquor.
- These are some tips that will revolutionize the way you shop to buy alcohol.
- These are 15 things you need to know before Costco Liquor can be purchased
- 1. Costco’s liquor prices are low
When compared to other retailers, Costco has a lower retail markup of about 10 to 14 percent, where other liquor stores charge a 25 and 45 percent markup.
Costco will offer a lower price for your next wine bottle, while you get larger bottles at the same cost as other retailers.
Their profit margins may be smaller due to the lower price but they are compensated for by repeat business and large sales.
- 2. Costco’s Liquor Selection Is Unmatched
Costco has a wide selection of Kirkland liquors, along with more well-known brands. A few luxury brands are available. There are many luxury brands that you can purchase under the Kirkland Label.
You can also enjoy:
- All Wines Rums Tequilas Whiskeys Scotches Whiskeys Vins Gins
- 3. Costco Carries Brand-Name Liquor Dupes
Kirkland products purchased from Costco are often made in the same facility as high-end brands.
You may find clues on the back of liquor bottles about their brand-name counterparts.
Here is a list of names that are associated with Kirkland spirits. However, this belief has been questioned.
- Gordon Biersch (Kirkland beer)
- Alexander Murray, Macallan Distillery (Kirkland Scotch)
- Jim Beam (Kirkland Bourbon and Rum).
- Grey Goose (Kirkland vodka)
- Cielo (Kirkland) tequila
- When you are next tempted to buy a Kirkland spirit, keep in mind these name brands.
- 4. Costco Also Has Kirkland Wine
Here is an incredible little-known secret: Costco’s wines are made at leading wineries with the same grapes high-end wines use.
You can find clues on the labels of wine products, just like spirits. Kirkland can be a great choice over Champagne Janisson & Fils and Champagne de Bruyne.
Kirkland wines are actually sourced from some of the same vineyards that your favourite brands.
- Domaine de Nalys
- Kunde Estate
- Girard Winery
- Taylor Fladgate
- 5. Costco has top-quality wine and liquor available
Costco can sell Dom Perignon. If you’re looking for other brands than Kirkland bottles, look in the liquor section.
Costco has limited edition products available for the collectors among us. You might find a gem in your next weekly or monthly liquor purchase if you are a good shopper.
- 6. Costco Liquor can sometimes be purchased without requiring a membership
Costco does not require a Costco member to get liquor.
- Arizona California Connecticut Delaware Hawaii Indiana Massachusetts Michigan Minnesota New York Texas Vermont
Simply walk in and tell the employee at the front door that you are there to buy liquor, and you will be able to purchase liquor without a membership.
If you are not a Costco member but don’t reside in one of these states, it’s worth checking. You can also get Costco memberships.
- 7. Costco Locations have different liquor selections
- Costco offers a wide range of liquors that aren’t available in every state. Also, you can find T
his mostly applies to hard liquor, and you will likely be able to buy beer and wine regardless of your state.
Keep in mind, however that liquor may not be available at certain times of the day or on certain days.
State restrictions may vary. You will have to consult your local regulations in order to determine exactly what you can buy at Costco’s closest location.
- 8. Costco Has Liquor Gift Baskets Available
- You can find gift baskets from Costco throughout the year. They come with premium liquor brands. You can use these gift bags to surprise someone, like a housewarming present, or to simply grab what you need.
Holidays bring even more gifts baskets. Buy seasonal baskets with holiday liquors and advent calendars to give the best gift for less.
- 9. Clearance Products have Asterisks
Costco offers a wide range of products, from wine to liquor. Pay attention to the asterisks.
Usually, this will be on the top right-hand corner. An asterisk indicates clearance products.
This means that it’s marked down and ready to go! This is your favorite, so stock up! Clearance items aren’t restocked, so get them now.
- 10. Costco Restocks Liquor Early
Costco stock its shelves frequently and often early! The shelves are restocked daily at 4 AM. If you’re looking for your favourite spirit but it’s out of stock, Costco will restock the next day.
- 11. Costco is the best place to buy liquor
How to Apply Before You Apply
You should ask the right questions before you apply for credit cards. This will help you decide which card suits your needs best.
- What’s my credit score? Knowing your credit score is key to gauging which credit cards you have the best chances of qualifying for. Numerous credit score tools are available for free that will provide you with your credit score. They also keep it updated monthly.
- Why do I want to open a credit card? Only open a credit card if you have a real need. So if you shop at Costco and pay with cash because you don’t have a credit card backed by Visa, then that’s a good reason since you’re missing out on rewards.
- Is an annual fee worth it? If you’re looking at a credit card with an annual fee, do the math to see if the benefits outweigh the fee.
- How do I plan to use the card? You’ve already decided that you want a card for Costco, but now you should see what other purchases you expect to charge to the card. If you want it for everyday use, consider a flat-rate cash-back card, like the Chase Freedom Unlimited(r). If you are planning to travel outside of the U.S.A, consider credit cards that have no foreign transaction fees such as Chase Sapphire Preferred(r).
Learn more: How to choose the best credit card in 3 easy steps
Making The Most Of Your Card
Credit cards provide numerous perks beyond the ability to buy now and pay later. You may earn bonus rewards in select categories, benefit from annual statement credits, receive a 0% APR period and many other benefits. You can review the benefits offered by your credit card and then make sure you take advantage of these.
If you have the Citi(r), Double Cash Card you will receive zero interest on your first 18 month purchases. After that, the variable APR of 14.74% to 24.74% applies. You can use that card to pay for large future purchases and receive interest-free financing.
If you are planning on travelling abroad, then cards such as the Costco Anywhere Visa (r), PenFed Cash Rewards Visa Signature (r) and Chase Sapphire Preferred (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12) may be the best choices. They have no foreign transaction fee.
If you are looking for Costco cell phones, look out for the Wireless Advocates Kiosks
The easiest way to find the cell phones at Costco is to look for the Wireless Advocates branded kiosks in the store, which tend to be rectangular in shape, black with punches of color from the different carrier logos and fairly tall.
You can see a photo of a typical kiosk here.
Costco outsources cell phone sales to Wireless Advocates instead of doing it themselves. Wireless Advocates is an established “third-party provider” and retailer of wireless products.
You Can Trade Your Ipad In At Costco
Costco provides a trade-in program for certain Apple devices if you’re ready to upgrade your iPad but don’t know what to do with your old one.
Further, here’s how Costco’s trade-in program works:
- Costco’s trade in website allows you to enter the serial number of your iPad and ask questions about its condition.
- Your prepaid shipping label can be printed
- Follow instructions to erase the data on the device
- Costco checks your iPad
- Costco sends you a Costco Shop Card or Costco Digital Shop Card with the trade-in value
Moreover, Costco will send you shipping supplies if you request them, which takes three and five days to arrive.
Depending on which pay-out method, trade-in payments can take up to 15 days for you to receive your payment.
How To Shop Smarter
Which is better: To save or to spend? That is the question so many of us struggle with when it comes to everything from household essentials to big-ticket items. No matter how tight your budget is or how much money you have, no one likes to spend unnecessary money. Money experts, however, are able to keep spending under control. “Money experts typically aren’t big spenders and definitely don’t buy things they can’t afford,” says WalletHub analyst Jill Gonzalez. “They tend to look for quality over quantity and avoid paying interest on credit card purchases by not carrying a balance from one billing cycle to another.”
These people also have an advantage over others in knowing when there are the best deals and they shop at Costco and Target. One survey revealed that people even with more than $5,000,000 in net worth often shop at discount stores. And those are just a few of the smart-shopping techniques employed by the experts (and the people they advise).
Costco Price Sticker Secrets
There’s a secret code to be found in Costco price stickers, if you’re savvy enough to look for it. Most items have a price ending in $._9 (such as $2.99 or $2.49). According to Secret Price Codes That Will Save You Money At Costco, those items are the standard Costco price. But when you see an item price that ends in $.00 or $.88, that means the item is on Manager’s Special. Those are often items that have been returned or have superficial packaging damage. Be sure to look them over to avoid picking up sub-par merchandise, but even if you don’t discover an issue until you get home, the famous Costco return policy will still protect you.
In addition, any price sticker that ends with $.97 indicates that it’s been discounted at least once, making it an even better deal. Keep an eye out for big savings like these, especially on higher ticket items like some of the surprising things available at Costco.
Computers
Costco’s website outlines the reason why it’s wise to check out the warehouse store before buying a computer.
There’s the 90-day return policy and free technical support, along with a one-year manufacturer’s warranty and a two-year Costco extended warranty. Plus, if you buy with your Costco-branded Visa card, you’ll earn a 2% cash-back reward as well as 2% annual reward if you’re an executive member.
Costco sells other smartphone brands
If your local Costco warehouse doesn’t have the iPhone you want in stock, the store offers other popular cell phone brands.
For example, Costco carries the latest Samsung, LG, and Google smartphones.
Additionally, Costco offers special deals and discounts on these smartphone brands, allowing you to save even more money.
Costco associates have the same knowledge as iPhones about smartphones from LG, Samsung, and Google.
Buy With A Second or Third Choice Of Costco Mobile Phones
Another complaint with Costco’s cell phone shop is the limited stock in stores.
If you’re walking in and absolutely have to walk out with a phone that day, you should come prepared with second or third choices.
Apple
Apple’s deal lets you get up to $790 off the new iPhone 13 models when trading in the iPhone 8 or a newer model. Trade-ins are possible for other phones like the Samsung Galaxy S8, Google Pixel 3 or LG G8 ThinQ.
Soy And Almond Milk
They are usually sold in three-packs, but it is worth buying soy milk and almond milk at Costco. These 3-packs sell for approximately 20% less per container than normal store prices.
Fresh Seafood
Every other weekend, there will be a booth at Costco selling fresh, low-cost seafood. These deals will help you save a lot on seafood, even though it is often quite expensive. Costco regularly offers mussels and crabs for as low as $2 per pound, which is great! If you’re throwing a dinner party, these seafood specials are a great way to bring some sophistication to your event without breaking the bank. (See also: Affordable, Sustainable Seafood)
Costco Sells Unlocked Phones
Costco offers an advantage: the iPhones are unlocked, so you can choose the wireless network that suits your needs.
Also, you can change carriers without changing phones. Costco associates are available to help activate your phone’s service and recommend the best provider.
To learn more, you can also read our posts on Costco phone return policy, buying phones from Costco vs Verizon, and Costco iPad return policy.
Costco cell phones have many advantages over other avenues
Costco is doing a great job in partnering up with Wireless Advocates to offer exclusive deals for its members.
Currently, shoppers can save up to $700 off Apple phones if they went into the warehouse and purchased in person with a trade-in.
As well, there was a deal where customers who signed up for a new line with T-Mobile could get a Samsung Galaxy A32 for free.
Costco Wait Times Can Be Considerably Long
Customers who purchased iPads or iPhones at Costco in person have reported that there can be a long waiting time for wireless kiosks.
Usually, Costco only has one employee working the booth, and they can only help one person at a time. Costco customers advise that you visit the store outside of peak hours.
Sometimes, Costco may not have the item you are looking for in stock. You can still call Costco to check if they have the iPhone/iPad you are looking for in stock.
Audio Systems
Ramhold stated that Costco was a great place to go for home audio.
She said, “While upgrading your TV’s sound system, you might also consider upgrading the audio system.” “Costco carries simple soundbars, but if you want to go big, the club has you covered there. You can buy receivers and build your own system, or spring for something like a full-blown cinema system with Dolby ATMOS to turn your living room into a true home theater if you want.”
15 Things To Know Before Buying Costco Cell Phones In 2022
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Costco offers great deals on party platters and cars, so why not look at its range of cell phones. It’s worth every penny to pay the annual cost for a cell-phone purchase from Costco, which is the fifth-largest retail company in the world.
It is easiest to locate cell phones in Costco by searching for Wireless Advocates kiosks. They are usually rectangular and dark with accents from various carrier logos.
These kiosks are topped by a “roof”, which is a collection of logos from carriers. If you look closely or walk toward the electronics area, you will be able find them. You can also see an image of what a typical kiosk looks at here.
Wireless Advocates does not employ Costco workers as the kiosk is operated by its own company.
This means that if Costco is not your concern, you can ask the Wireless Advocate staff.
It also means kiosk workers are educated and well-versed in the products they are selling. This is in contrast with Costco staff who work in the jewelry department but aren’t trained in either gemology or diamond expertise.
Costco has three major wireless carriers that sell all its phones: Verizon Wireless, AT&T Wireless and T-Mobile.
A phone can be purchased if it is already pre-programmed.
Clark.com claims that Costco’s plans can be found in all retail locations and online. But Costco’s members pricing is what makes them different.
Costco doesn’t sell phones unlocked that can be used on any carrier. Cricket Wireless is not an option for those who want to purchase the most recent iPhone.
Your only option is to make the switch from your current plan to one offered by Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile.
Clark.com has also reported that Costco Wireless Advocate kiosks usually have the most up-to-date phone models.
A visit to membershipwireless.com, Costco’s external cell phone website, reveals the latest Apple and Samsung models, including the iPhone 13 and the Galaxy Z Flip3.
Costco was not equipped with the latest Google Pixel models, which is surprising, considering that they had been around for only a couple of months when this article was published.
You can also find older models at a reasonable price.
Costco makes it easy to save money on the most recent cell phone models.
Although 10 percent is not standard, you can expect to receive a three- to four percent discount on your retail prices.
Apple has the Apple iPhone 13 Starlight priced at $899. Costco however, offers an $865 discount, which represents a savings approximately 4 percent.
Costco is like most retailers. You don’t have to pay for your phone every month.
Instead of paying monthly for phones, you may opt to pay a deposit or make a downpayment.
Costco has done an excellent job of teaming up with Wireless Advocates and providing exclusive offers to members.
Apple customers can get up to $700 discount if the customer goes into the warehouse and purchases in person using a tradein.
Customers who sign up to a T-Mobile new line could receive a Samsung Galaxy A32 free of charge.
One of the major complaints about buying a cell phone at Costco is that the entire process can take a while.
Sometimes only one person is working so one individual must manage the entire line.
Clark.com also mentions that there is quite a bit of paperwork to get through, so just plan ahead, especially if it’s the weekend or other busy time.
Another complaint with Costco’s cell phone shop is the limited stock in stores.
You should always have a second or third option in case you are forced to leave the store with your phone.
Costco’s cell phones are eligible for return up to 90-days after they were purchased. This policy is clearly not the same as Costco’s general returns policy. Unfortunately, mobile electronics have their own policies.
According to Clark.com, returns are actually handled through Wireless Advocates and not Costco.
Costco will not accept your returned phone. Instead, contact Wireless Advocates via email at CostcoOnlineSupport@wirelessadvocates.com or by phone at 1-888-369-5931.
No one likes reading the fine print, but in this instance, it could save you a lot of money.
Check and double-check on the length of the trial period, because while It’s generally 14 days, the length can differ from carrier to carrier.
Wireless Advocate kiosk services may not be as extensive as the ones you could receive at Verizon Wireless stores.
After activating your iPhone, employees at VZW can connect your iCloud (for iPhone).
Wireless Advocate employees can’t do that, but instead will provide printed instructions for how to complete it once you are home.
Costco Members-Only Deals are not limited to cell phones.
You can also find all kinds of accessories like screen covers, cases, chargers, cables and more, for low Costco prices, and through limited-time specials.
Costco’s Black Friday offers are not to be missed, especially if looking for new phones. Costco is known for offering sweet deals throughout the year, and if timing is perfect, there could be huge savings.
For more information, please visit our Costco blog posts about the Costco iPhone return policy and Costco iPad return policies.
If you have a membership to Costco and have been thinking about getting a new phone, the warehouse is a great place to look.
Costco’s lower prices, combined with ongoing deals and perks, can’t be beat, and you get the trusted, quality service of three major carriers- Verizon, AT&T and T-Mobile.
Do Costco Members Get Discounts On Phones?
It doesn’t matter if your cell phones or plans match those offered by wireless companies. Costco’s members-only offers would fit this description. Clark says, “In addition the deal that you may get from your mobile phone carrier for trading in or buying a pair of smartphones, Costco will offer you additional bonuses.” May 14, 2021
Costco Can I Upgrade My Phone?
3. What wireless phone kiosks are available in Costco to allow me upgrade my existing smartphone? Absolutely! Yes! Our wireless specialists can assist you in securing the phone that you desire with any carrier.
Are Costco Iphones Real?
Costco sells iPhones through Wireless Advocates, a third-party company that runs in-store kiosks and online purchasing. The special Costco iPhone promotion could save you money.
Are Phones Bought From Costco Unlocked?
Wireless Advocates has taken over sales of cell phones and plans from Costco, which is wholly owned to Car Toys. Costco doesn’t sell any other carriers, so you won’t be able to buy unlocked smartphones there.
.15 Things To Know Before Buying Costco Cell Phones In 2022
