Does Costco Offer Delivery? Here's What You Need to Know

It's no secret that Costco — with its generous return policy and big-box items — is one-stop shopping for those who suffer from buyer's remorse, or for busy shoppers who prefer buying in bulk. Whether you’re running low on cleaning supplies or need to stock up on favorite snacks, Costco's delivery service can be a useful tool for hectic days.

By partnering with Instacart and Shipt, Costco offers same-day delivery on orders of $35 or above. Costco also waives the delivery fee on orders of more than $75 through its own two-day delivery service for household essentials and nonperishable items. 

With Thanksgiving approaching (full-panic shrieking, because where has the time gone), you can stock up on essentials from whole turkeys and pumpkin pies to sparkling ciders and cheap cutlery. 

Not yet a Costco member? You can apply here.

Frequently Asked Questions

• How does Costco delivery work?
  
  Costco offers same-day delivery through Instacart and Shipt, as well as two-day delivery through Costco online.
  
  

  To use the delivery services, add the Costco items you want to buy to your cart and click submit; an Instacart shopper in your area will be assigned, and you can select the delivery window that works for you. With same-day delivery, members in qualifying ZIP codes can order perishable items such as produce, meat, and seafood. Note: You must be home to accept deliveries through Instacart. 

  
  

  With Costco’s two-day delivery, you can stock up only on household essentials such as cleaning supplies, nonperishable snacks, and laundry detergent. You don't have to pay a delivery fee for orders over $75, and you don't have to be home to get the order, making this a good option for those who aren't home during the day or have irregular schedules. 

• Do I need to be a Costco member to use the delivery services?
  
  Yes. Currently, only Costco members can use its delivery services. Items bought online will also be marked up slightly compared with "in-warehouse prices," according to the big-box retailer. To compare prices, you can download the Costco app on a phone and do a quick price comparison with Costco Grocery to see the markup. A good rule of thumb for gauging prices online versus in-store: Expect a 5% to 10% increase when using Costco's same-day delivery service.
  
  
• Is there a minimum for delivery? 
  
  Yes. For same-day delivery through Instacart, you need to order at least $35 worth of items, and delivery fees start at $4. Service fees vary based on factors such as location and the number and types of items in your cart. Orders containing alcohol also have a separate service fee. For Costco's two-day delivery, you must order $75 worth of merchandise to qualify for free delivery. Otherwise, you'll have to pay a $3 per-item fee (totally not worth it, if you ask us).
  
  
• What items are available for delivery through Instacart?
  
  All perishable groceries that Costco sells, such as meats, produce, milk, and seafood, will be available through Instacart delivery. Nonperishables such as canned goods, hygiene products, health care items, pet food, electronics, books, beverages, and snacks are also available. Instacart will even deliver alcohol and baked goods. (ID verification is required at the time of delivery for alcoholic products.) 
  
  
• What if the item I need isn't available at the store?
  
  If your personal shopper finds one of your items is out of stock, they’ll reach out to you via text or a phone call to let you know. You can opt for a substitution, or a refund of the unavailable item. 
  
  
• Do I need to tip? 
  
  While tipping is always suggested and welcome, don't feel obligated; Costco drivers are employed by the company or by major couriers. But if you're willing and able, try tipping a personal shopper with Instacart — especially if they went out of their way to find substitute products that weren't available at the store. These drivers work as independent contractors, and your tip will surely mean a lot to them. 
  
  
• Can I schedule a delivery for a later time or date?
  
  Yes. If you're buying nonperishable items and don’t need them right away, you’ll want to opt for Costco’s two-day delivery service; you can choose the delivery time and date. For same-day delivery with Instacart or Shipt, you can choose a delivery window, but your groceries will be delivered the same day. 
  
  
• Can I buy furniture at Costco and have it delivered?
  
  Yes. Costco Logistics offers In-Home Delivery and In-Home Installation services for select items bought in-store or on its website. Check here for detailed pricing and delivery options.