What Costco Employees Wish You Knew About Bringing Your Own Bag - Tasting Table

Costco checkout stations do not provide bags, so shoppers often bring reusable totes or other carriers. Costco staff can stop shoppers at warehouse entrances or exits and request to search bags, including purses, briefcases, and backpacks. The policy is posted on signs near many locations and is tied to membership conditions. Searches are intended to reduce shoplifting, and the likelihood of a check may depend on the bag’s size and features that can conceal items. Refusing a search can result in being denied entry or being asked to leave, and some shoppers report concerns about membership consequences. Some shoppers instead use Costco’s free boxes to avoid carrying bags out.

"Since the chain's checkout stations don't offer bags, bringing your own is often more convenient than carrying those giant, bulky items out one by one. But if you show up with a tote, prepare to get stopped at the warehouse entrance or exit, as Costco staff have the right to search customers' bags and might even refuse you entry based on these checks."

"This policy is something Costco employees know that most shoppers don't, even though the rule is actually posted on signs near the entrance of many locations. Costco staff can not only ask to look inside reusable shopping bags, but also personal bags like purses, briefcases, and backpacks. The reason behind this is likely to cut down on shoplifting, but employees aren't necessarily singling you out - the chances of a search have more to do with your bag itself."

"According to customers on Reddit, the larger the bag, the more likely it is to be searched by employees, especially if it zips closed, likely because these carriers can conceal more stolen merchandise. A random bag check can feel invasive, but this clause is listed under the conditions for membership, so as long as you have a Costco card, an employee can ask to take a look."

"Costco's rule book doesn't explain why shoppers may be refused entry after a bag check, though customers speculate that if you refuse to be searched, you might get booted out. Some even claim that your membership could be revoked. However, some Costco customers are mighty unhappy about this policy, especially if they're confronted with it by surprise."

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