Costco is known for its great deals, but did you know that the price tags hold secret codes? Understanding these codes can help you find the best bargains and avoid missing out on your favorite items. From organic produce to seasonal items, each price tag tells a story. In this article, we’ll explore 12 secret Costco price tag codes that can help you save money and shop smarter.
Key Takeaways
- Look for prices ending in .97 for discounts.
- An asterisk means the item won’t be restocked.
- Prices ending in .00 are the lowest price you’ll find.
- Green labels indicate organic products.
- Check the date on the price tag for potential markdowns.
1. Organic Produce
When I walk into Costco, one of the first things I look for is the organic produce. These items are not just healthier; they often taste better too! Costco makes it easy to spot organic products with their green price tags. This way, I can quickly grab what I need without wasting time.
Here are a few things I love about shopping for organic produce at Costco:
- Variety: They offer a wide range of organic fruits and vegetables, from apples to zucchini.
- Quality: I’ve noticed that the organic items are usually fresher than those at other stores.
- Value: The prices are often lower than what I find at local grocery stores, which is a big plus for my budget.
One tip I always keep in mind is to check the date stamp on the price tag. It’s usually in tiny print at the bottom right corner. If it’s a bit older, it might mean that the item is due for a markdown soon. So, I keep an eye out for those dates while I shop!
2. Seasonal Items
When I walk into Costco during the holidays, I can’t help but feel excited about the seasonal items they have. These products are often unique and can be hard to find elsewhere. From festive decorations to special food items, Costco really knows how to celebrate the seasons.
Here are a few things I’ve noticed about seasonal items at Costco:
- Limited Availability: Many seasonal items are only available for a short time. If you see something you like, grab it quickly!
- Discounts: Sometimes, these items are marked down as the season ends, so keep an eye out for those deals.
- Unique Finds: You can find special products that you won’t see at other stores, like the Peloton Bike+ that will be sold at a discount this holiday season.
In my experience, shopping for seasonal items at Costco is like a treasure hunt. You never know what you might find, but it’s always worth checking out!
3. Manager’s Specials
When I shop at Costco, I always keep an eye out for the manager’s specials. These are the items that have a price tag ending in .00. It’s like a secret signal that tells me these products are on their way out, and I should grab them fast!
Here’s what I’ve learned about these special deals:
- Lowest Price: If you see a price ending in .00, it means this is the best price you’ll ever get for that item.
- Limited Availability: These markdowns are specific to each warehouse. So, if you find a great deal, it might not be available at another Costco nearby.
- Act Fast: These deals don’t last long. If you see something you like, don’t wait!
I remember once finding a fantastic deal on a kitchen appliance marked down to .00. I didn’t hesitate and bought it right away. It felt like I had scored a hidden treasure!
So, next time you’re at Costco, keep an eye out for those .00 price tags. They might just lead you to some amazing savings on products that are almost gone!
4. Clearance Items
When I walk into Costco, one of my favorite sections to check out is the clearance items. These are the products that are marked down and need to go! You can spot them easily by looking for price tags that end in .97. This means they’ve been reduced from their original price.
Here’s what I’ve learned about clearance items:
- Look for the .97: If you see a price ending in .97, it’s a clearance item. This is a great way to save money on things you might need.
- Check the date: Sometimes, if an item has been sitting on the shelf for a while, it might get marked down even more. You can find the date code on the price tag, usually in the bottom right corner. If it’s been there for a few weeks, keep an eye on it for possible further discounts.
- Asterisk alert: If you see an asterisk on the price tag, it means that the item won’t be restocked. So, if you like it, grab it while you can!
I remember once finding a great deal on some kitchen gadgets that were on clearance. I bought a few, and they ended up being some of my favorite tools. It’s always a thrill to find a good deal, especially when it’s something you really want!
So next time you’re at Costco, don’t forget to check out the clearance items. You might just find something amazing at a fantastic price!
5. Asterisk Marked Products
When I shop at Costco, I always keep an eye out for those price tags with an asterisk in the top right corner. Seeing that asterisk is like a little warning sign for me. It means that the item won’t be restocked once it’s gone. This is super important because if I see something I like, I know I need to grab it quickly!
Here’s what I’ve learned about asterisk marked products:
- Limited Stock: If you see an asterisk, it means the product is likely seasonal or just not coming back. So, if it’s your favorite, don’t wait!
- Not Always Discounted: Just because there’s an asterisk doesn’t mean the item is on sale. It just means it’s a last chance to buy it.
- Act Fast: I’ve missed out on some great items because I hesitated. If you want it, buy it before it’s too late!
In my experience, these asterisk items can be a real treasure hunt. I’ve found some amazing deals that I never expected to see again. So, next time you’re at Costco, keep an eye out for that asterisk—it might just lead you to your next favorite find!
6. Discounted Electronics
When I walk into Costco, I always keep an eye out for the electronics section. Finding discounted electronics is like a treasure hunt! You can score some amazing deals if you know what to look for. Here’s what I’ve learned about the price tags:
- Look for prices ending in .97: This usually means the item is on clearance. It’s a sign that the price has been marked down from the original.
- Asterisks on the tags: If you see an asterisk, it means the item won’t be restocked. So, if you find something you like, grab it before it’s gone!
- Prices ending in .00: These are the best deals! They indicate that the item is being cleared out, and you might not see that price again.
Here’s a quick table to summarize:
| Price Ending | Meaning |
|---|---|
| .97 | Clearance item |
| .00 | Deep discount, clearance sale |
| Asterisk | Not restocking, limited stock |
I remember once I found a fantastic deal on a TV that had a price ending in .97. I couldn’t believe my luck! It’s moments like these that make shopping at Costco so exciting. So next time you’re there, keep your eyes peeled for those special price tags and start saving money, like a boss!
7. Bulk Snacks
When I walk into Costco, one of my favorite sections is the bulk snacks aisle. There’s something special about buying snacks in bulk! Not only do I get more for my money, but I also get to try a variety of flavors. Here are a few things I love about shopping for bulk snacks at Costco:
- Variety: From chips to nuts, the selection is huge. I can find everything from classic potato chips to unique flavored popcorn.
- Value: Buying in bulk usually means I’m saving money. I can stock up on my favorites without breaking the bank.
- Convenience: Having a big bag of snacks at home means I’m always ready for movie night or unexpected guests.
One thing to keep in mind is that not all bulk snacks are created equal. Some might be healthier than others, so I always check the labels. I also love to share my finds with friends and family. It’s fun to have a snack party and let everyone try different things!
So next time you’re at Costco, don’t skip the bulk snacks aisle. You might just find your new favorite treat!
8. Fresh Meat
When I walk into Costco, one of my favorite sections is the fresh meat aisle. The quality of the meat is often top-notch, and I love knowing I can get great deals. Here’s what I’ve learned about shopping for fresh meat at Costco:
- Look for the Asterisk: If you see a price tag with an asterisk, it means that item won’t be restocked. This is your cue to grab it if you want it!
- Check the Date: Always check the date on the meat. If it’s getting close to the sell-by date, it might be marked down. I’ve scored some amazing deals this way!
- Bulk Buying: Buying in bulk can save you money. I often buy larger packs and freeze what I don’t use right away. It’s a great way to save time and money.
Here’s a quick table of some common meats and their typical prices at Costco:
| Meat Type | Price per Pound | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken Breast | $2.99 | Great for grilling |
| Ground Beef | $4.49 | Perfect for burgers |
| Pork Chops | $3.99 | Tender and juicy |
I always feel like I’m getting a good deal when I shop for fresh meat at Costco. Plus, the variety is impressive! From chicken to beef to pork, there’s something for everyone. So next time you’re there, don’t forget to check out the fresh meat section!
9. Dairy Products
When I walk through the dairy section at Costco, I always keep an eye on the price tags. Dairy products can be a great deal, especially if you know what to look for. Here are some things I’ve learned about Costco’s dairy pricing:
- Prices ending in .99 are the regular prices. This is what you’ll see most often.
- Prices ending in .97 mean the item is on sale. This is a good time to stock up on your favorite yogurt or cheese.
- If you see a price ending in .00, it’s a manager’s special. These are the lowest prices you’ll find, so don’t wait too long to grab them!
I’ve noticed that some dairy items, like organic milk or specialty cheeses, often have green labels. This means they’re organic, which is a bonus if you’re looking for healthier options. Plus, I’ve found that buying in bulk can save me a lot of money in the long run.
Here’s a quick table of some common dairy products and their price tag codes:
| Product | Regular Price | Sale Price | Manager’s Special |
|---|---|---|---|
| Organic Milk | $3.99 | $2.97 | $2.00 |
| Cheddar Cheese | $5.99 | $4.97 | $3.00 |
| Greek Yogurt | $6.99 | $5.97 | $4.00 |
Next time you’re at Costco, keep an eye out for these codes. You might just find some amazing deals on your favorite dairy products! And remember, if you see an asterisk on the tag, it means that item won’t be restocked, so grab it while you can! This is especially true for seasonal items, which can disappear quickly. I’ve learned the hard way to stock up when I see something I love!
10. Household Essentials
When I walk into Costco, one of my favorite sections to check out is the household essentials. These items are not just practical; they can also save you a lot of money in the long run. Costco’s prices on household goods are often unbeatable!
Here are some key things to look for when shopping for household essentials:
- Bulk Sizes: Many household items, like paper towels and laundry detergent, come in larger sizes. This means you get more for your money.
- Quality Brands: Costco often carries well-known brands that you trust, so you know you’re getting good quality.
- Seasonal Deals: Keep an eye out for seasonal items that might be on sale. For example, during back-to-school season, you can find great deals on school supplies.
I remember the first time I bought a huge pack of toilet paper. I thought, "Am I really going to use all of this?" But it lasted me for months! Plus, I saved a lot compared to buying smaller packs at other stores.
If you’re not a member yet, consider joining. A Costco membership has many benefits, but the cheapest membership costs $60 a year. If you plan to shop in bulk often, it could save you money over time.
So next time you’re at Costco, don’t forget to check out the household essentials. You might be surprised at how much you can save!
11. Health Supplements
When I walk through the aisles of Costco, I often find myself drawn to the health supplements section. These products can be a great way to support your health without breaking the bank. Here’s what I’ve learned about the price tags for health supplements at Costco:
What to Look For
- Price Ending in .97: This usually means it’s a special deal or a manager’s markdown.
- Price Ending in .00: This indicates that the item is a regular price, so it might not be on sale.
- Asterisk on the Tag: If you see an asterisk (*), it means the item is discontinued or won’t be restocked. This is your chance to grab it before it’s gone!
My Personal Experience
I remember when I first discovered the benefits of taking vitamins. I was amazed at how much I could save by buying them in bulk at Costco. For example, I found a large bottle of Vitamin D for a fraction of the price compared to other stores. It felt good knowing I was making a smart choice for my health and my wallet.
Quick Tips
- Check the expiration dates: Always make sure the supplements are fresh.
- Compare prices: Sometimes, even with a bulk discount, it’s worth checking other stores.
- Read the labels: Make sure you know what you’re getting and how it fits into your health goals.
In conclusion, shopping for health supplements at Costco can be a rewarding experience. With the right knowledge of the price tags, you can find great deals that help you stay healthy without overspending!
12. Frozen Foods
When I walk through the frozen food aisle at Costco, I feel like a kid in a candy store. The variety is amazing! From frozen fruits to ready-made meals, there’s something for everyone. But did you know that the price tags can tell you a lot about what you’re buying?
Key Price Tags to Watch For
- Asterisk Mark: If you see an asterisk on the price tag, it means that the item won’t be restocked. This is your cue to grab it while you can! I once missed out on a delicious frozen lasagna because I didn’t pay attention to this.
- Prices Ending in .97: These indicate clearance items. I’ve found some great deals on frozen veggies this way. It’s like a treasure hunt!
- Double Zeroes (.00): This means the item is being cleared out quickly. I once snagged a huge bag of frozen shrimp at a fantastic price because it was marked down to .00.
Why Frozen Foods Are a Smart Choice
- Convenience: They’re quick to prepare, which is perfect for busy days.
- Long Shelf Life: You can stock up without worrying about spoilage.
- Healthy Options: Many frozen foods are just as nutritious as fresh ones.
Next time you’re at Costco, keep an eye on those price tags in the frozen food section. You might just find a great deal waiting for you!
Frequently Asked Questions
What do the different endings on Costco price tags mean?
Costco price tags can end in different numbers that tell you about discounts. For example, if a price ends in .97, it means the item is on sale. If it ends in .00, it’s a manager’s special, which is the lowest price you’ll see for that product.
What does an asterisk on a price tag indicate?
An asterisk means that the item won’t be restocked. If you see one, it’s a good idea to buy it soon because it might not be available again.
Are all sales at Costco marked with red tags?
No, Costco doesn’t use red tags like other stores. Instead, they have special codes on the price tags to indicate sales and discounts.
How can I tell if a product is organic at Costco?
You can spot organic products by looking for green price tags. If the price tag is green, that means the item is organic.
What should I do if I see a price tag with a date that is a few weeks old?
If you see an older date on a price tag, it might mean that the item is due for a markdown soon. Keep an eye on it!
Can I find the same sale prices at all Costco locations?
Not always. Some sale prices, especially those ending in .00, are specific to that warehouse. Prices can vary between different Costco stores.
