Few Costco members in the United States know it: the secret that changes everything

Shopping can be a pleasant experience or simply a task that one wants to finish as soon as possible. In very crowded places, such as certain supermarkets, waiting in line can become a real ordeal. Many customers are unaware that there is a method to significantly speed up the waiting time.

Costco, known for its quality products at competitive prices, offers a trick that few know: it is possible to place food orders while in the checkout line. For example, the popular nachos with cheese, which are priced at $3.99, can be ordered from kiosks with QR codes located inside the store. This way, when the customer finishes paying, they only need to pick up their order without having to wait in a second line.

How to avoid long waits at Costco

Costco, which was founded in 1983 in Seattle by James Sinegal and Jeffrey Brotman, has established itself as one of the largest supermarket chains in the U.S. It operates as a members-only warehouse club, offering both well-known brands and its own product line at reduced prices. Currently, it has more than 900 stores worldwide, which shows its broad popularity.

One of the main problems that customers face is the line at the registers, especially during peak hours. To solve this, Costco has installed member card scanners at the entrance of the stores. Scanning the card upon entry allows any issue to be solved on the spot, preventing delays at the register, reveals La Grada Online.

Additionally, the supermarkets offer self-service stations where customers can pay without having to wait too long. Although these tools are useful, they do not completely eliminate the wait. The key is to combine these options with advance food ordering, which considerably reduces waiting times.

Tricks to speed up your visit

Placing the food order while in the checkout line is just one of the strategies. Many self-service kiosks within the food area allow you to place the order through QR codes or touch screens, quickly. Another option is for a companion to place the order while waiting in the main line, saving between 15 and 20 minutes.

It is also advisable to visit Costco on less crowded days, such as Tuesday or Wednesday mornings. These tips, along with the use of tools like membership scanners and self-service, allow you to significantly reduce waiting times. By implementing these strategies, the shopping experience becomes much more agile and less frustrating for all customers.