Costco is a membership-only warehouse retail store that operates in 12 countries. Other than the iconic products from the store brand, Kirkland Signature, people enjoy shopping at Costco for the price. Costco’s bulk purchases and membership requirement ensures that it can offer products at lower prices than most other retailers. Costco’s products are also known for their quality, making it a good store for big families. The security that comes from Costco’s return policy also stands out for many people.
Costco Canada Return Policy (Online And In-Store)
For Costco merchandise, you can generally return it for a full refund at any time if you are dissatisfied with it or if the product is defective. There are certain exceptions to this depending on the product purchased.
Do note, online Costco purchases can also be returned for a full refund in-store or via the mail if you prefer.
Exceptions To Costco Canada’s Return Policy
While Costco’s return policy is fairly flexible, it does have some exceptions.
Costco Canada Return Policy On Electronics
You can only return electronics such as televisions, dishwashers, smartwatches and other major appliances within 90 days of receiving them.
Costco’s Return Policy On Diamonds Over 1.00 ct
If you are returning a diamond over 1.00 ct, you have to submit any original paperwork that came with it. A Costco gemologist will inspect the diamond to ensure it is authentic. Once the diamond is verified, your return will be approved. Do note, the refund may take 2-5 business days to process.
Costco’s Return Policy On Gold Bars
If you’ve purchased Gold bars and gold bullion, they cannot be returned for a refund.
Costco’s Return Policy On Cigarettes And Alcohol
It depends on the laws of the jurisdiction, but where forbidden, Costco does not accept returns on cigarettes and alcohol.
Costco’s Return Policy On Products With An Expiry Date
Any products with a limited life expectancy, such as batteries, are typically sold with a limited warranty.
Costco’s Return Policy On Custom Installation
Any custom products made to the buyer’s specifications cannot be returned or refunded because they cannot be resold.
Costco’s Return Policy On Food
There are no exceptions when it comes to returning food items to Costco. They will take back both packaged and prepared food. Even food that has been partially consumed. Keep in mind that you need to have something to return. For example, if you bought a food item that has two servings and ate one but didn’t like it. You could return the second serving.
Can You Return An Item Without A Receipt?
Receipts help make returns a seamless experience, however, if you don’t have a receipt you could still make a return. Just be sure to bring your Costco Membership card as they’ll need it to access your account information.
Can I Return A Costco Item I Received As A Gift?
If you’d like to return a Costco item you received as a gift, you’ll need the gift receipt to get a refund. If you do not have a gift receipt, you won’t be able to return it because Costco won’t be able to confirm the product was purchased there. With items you purchase yourself, Costco can use your membership to track your purchase, so you can return items you purchased without receipts. However, items that were gifted cannot be tracked and thus cannot be returned without a gift receipt.
That said, in some cases, Costco may still accept the item you received as a gift and provide you with a refund. But it depends on the customer representative you speak with.
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How To Return An Item To Costco: Online And In-Store Purchases
Here’s a guide on how to return an in-store and online purchase.
Return In Store
Whether you purchased an item in-store or online, you can return it at any Costco warehouse. Simply go to the returns counter at any Costco warehouse to get a refund.
- In-Store Purchase – To ensure a seamless process, be sure to bring your receipt.
- Online Purchase – To ensure a seamless process, be sure to bring your online confirmation number. Once you provide your details, the refund will be returned to the same card used to make the purchase.
Return By Mail
If you made a purchase online, you can return the item by mail. Simply follow these steps:
- To return an item purchased online, you have to log into your Costco online account, and select “Orders & Returns”.
- Then select “Return Items” next to the items you want to return. You will receive a return label within 2-3 business days. If you need to return a large item, you’ll be contacted by a pick-up carrier to schedule a pickup.
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Can I Cancel Or Return My Costco Membership?
You can cancel your membership and return most merchandise for the full purchase price at Costco with very few exceptions. If you are unhappy with your Costco membership, you can cancel it, and Costco will refund your membership fee.
Bottom Line
Costco’s return policy is very flexible, making most returns a breeze. Its policy is so accommodating because Costco wants to ensure member satisfaction. This policy stands out from that of many other retailers, making Costco a good place to purchase items and return them if you are unsatisfied.
