10 surprising items Costco won’t let you bring back
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Costco’s return policy is the stuff of legend, often held up as one of the most customer-friendly in all of retail.
Shoppers have long shared stories of refunds granted on items bought years earlier, from worn furniture to kitchen appliances well past their prime.
The company has leaned into this reputation, promising a “100% satisfaction guarantee” that keeps members loyal and coming back for more.
Still, even Costco has its limits, and there are at least 10 categories of merchandise that are strictly off-limits when it comes to returns.
Electronics top the list, but with a caveat. Televisions, projectors, major appliances, phones, tablets, and similar gadgets can only be brought back within 90 days of purchase. After that short window closes, Costco draws a firm line and will not accept them.
The rule acknowledges how quickly technology evolves and depreciates, making long-term refunds less realistic.
Diamonds of one carat or larger also come with strict rules, requiring all original paperwork and an inspection by a Costco Graduate Gemologist before any refund is approved.
Cigarettes and alcohol are another firm no, prohibited by state law from being returned once purchased.
Meanwhile, products with a limited life expectancy—such as car batteries or tires—cannot be taken back at all, although many carry manufacturer warranties that provide some protection for buyers. These exceptions mark the areas where Costco’s famously broad policy narrows significantly.
The exclusions also extend to categories such as custom-installed programs, special-order kiosk purchases, airline and live event tickets, and precious metals like gold bullion and silver coins.
Gift cards and Costco Shop Cards are similarly non-refundable, falling into the same “final sale” category.
Even recreational carts purchased online must be returned within 90 days, echoing the same rule that applies to electronics. Together, these items make up the small but important list of “no take-backs” at Costco.
Also read: Costco shopper left embarrassed after self-checkout rejects common payment method
Despite these boundaries, Costco’s return policy still stands out as unusually flexible compared to competitors.
Customers often share examples of unexpected successes, such as members returning two mattresses a decade old or even half-eaten food.
While most retailers would reject such attempts outright, Costco has shown a willingness to bend for the sake of customer loyalty.
That combination of generosity with a handful of strict carve-outs explains why the policy has become almost as famous as the store’s low prices and oversized carts. Looking ahead, Costco continues to expand its reach, with new store openings set for October.
Also read: The secret times Costco pros shop to score deals and skip the crowds
These additions bring more communities into the fold of the retailer’s unique shopping experience, where bulk goods, food court favorites, and a return policy that remains the envy of the industry all play a role in its appeal.
For shoppers, knowing both the perks and the limits of that policy is key to making the most of a Costco membership.
Read next: Are you missing out on these 7 Costco Executive perks members love?
Do you think Costco’s strict rules on certain categories are fair, or should the company be even more flexible with its legendary return policy? Share your thoughts in the comments and let us know about the most unusual return you’ve ever seen at a Costco.
Shoppers have long shared stories of refunds granted on items bought years earlier, from worn furniture to kitchen appliances well past their prime.
The company has leaned into this reputation, promising a “100% satisfaction guarantee” that keeps members loyal and coming back for more.
Still, even Costco has its limits, and there are at least 10 categories of merchandise that are strictly off-limits when it comes to returns.
Electronics top the list, but with a caveat. Televisions, projectors, major appliances, phones, tablets, and similar gadgets can only be brought back within 90 days of purchase. After that short window closes, Costco draws a firm line and will not accept them.
The rule acknowledges how quickly technology evolves and depreciates, making long-term refunds less realistic.
Diamonds of one carat or larger also come with strict rules, requiring all original paperwork and an inspection by a Costco Graduate Gemologist before any refund is approved.
Cigarettes and alcohol are another firm no, prohibited by state law from being returned once purchased.
Meanwhile, products with a limited life expectancy—such as car batteries or tires—cannot be taken back at all, although many carry manufacturer warranties that provide some protection for buyers. These exceptions mark the areas where Costco’s famously broad policy narrows significantly.
The exclusions also extend to categories such as custom-installed programs, special-order kiosk purchases, airline and live event tickets, and precious metals like gold bullion and silver coins.
Gift cards and Costco Shop Cards are similarly non-refundable, falling into the same “final sale” category.
Even recreational carts purchased online must be returned within 90 days, echoing the same rule that applies to electronics. Together, these items make up the small but important list of “no take-backs” at Costco.
Also read: Costco shopper left embarrassed after self-checkout rejects common payment method
Despite these boundaries, Costco’s return policy still stands out as unusually flexible compared to competitors.
Customers often share examples of unexpected successes, such as members returning two mattresses a decade old or even half-eaten food.
While most retailers would reject such attempts outright, Costco has shown a willingness to bend for the sake of customer loyalty.
That combination of generosity with a handful of strict carve-outs explains why the policy has become almost as famous as the store’s low prices and oversized carts. Looking ahead, Costco continues to expand its reach, with new store openings set for October.
Also read: The secret times Costco pros shop to score deals and skip the crowds
These additions bring more communities into the fold of the retailer’s unique shopping experience, where bulk goods, food court favorites, and a return policy that remains the envy of the industry all play a role in its appeal.
For shoppers, knowing both the perks and the limits of that policy is key to making the most of a Costco membership.
Read next: Are you missing out on these 7 Costco Executive perks members love?
