Shopping can be a pleasure for some and torture for others. No matter which group you belong to, there's something everyone hates: long lines. At Costco, with its high customer traffic, this is especially noticeable in the food court.
What few people know is that there's a trick that can save you valuable minutes.
How the QR trick works
Costco has implemented several tools to speed up the shopping experience. There are self-checkout registers, membership scanners at the entrance, and self-service kiosks. However, these solutions don't always eliminate the wait in the food area.
The trick is to place your order while you're still in the supermarket line. Many food court kiosks let you use a QR code to order without waiting; you just scan, choose what you want, and confirm. When you finish paying for your products, your food will be ready for pickup, thus avoiding another line.
If you're accompanied, another strategy is to ask your companion to place the order while you wait in the checkout line. This simple tactic can save you between 15 and 20 minutes.
Strategic days and times
Not every day is the same at Costco. The store is usually emptier on Tuesday and Wednesday mornings. Choosing these times to shop can mean fewer lines and less stress.
Also, using your membership card when entering is key. The entrance scanners detect any problem with your membership immediately. This way, you avoid having to solve it at the register, which usually delays all customers.
Costco: a bit of history
Costco was founded in 1983 in Seattle, Washington, by James Sinegal and Jeffrey Brotman. Their idea was simple: offer quality products at low prices, exclusively for members. Over time, it became one of the largest supermarkets in the United States.
Today, Costco operates more than 900 stores worldwide and is famous for its private label products and well-known brands at competitive prices. Its warehouse club model requires membership, which guarantees exclusive benefits and promotions for its members.
Other tips to save time
Besides the QR, there are additional ways to make your visit more efficient:
- Take advantage of self-checkout registers. They're fast and avoid long waits.
- Scan your membership card when entering. Solving problems from the start saves time at the end.
- Consider placing your food order while exploring the aisles. This turns waiting into something productive.
With these simple tips, the next time you go to Costco, you'll be able to enjoy your meal without wasting valuable minutes waiting in line. What once seemed like a waste of time can now be quick and efficient.