If you love hunting for bargains at Costco, you’ve probably noticed that every product has a unique price tag. But did you know those little numbers actually hold secret codes? 🤯 Yes — if you can read them correctly, you’ll unlock hidden discounts and score amazing deals that most shoppers completely miss.
In this guide, we’ll reveal the Costco price tag secrets, explain what the numbers really mean, and show you how to maximize your savings on every trip.
Table of Contents
Why Costco Price Tag Secrets Matter 🏷️
Costco already offers competitive bulk pricing, but the real pros go deeper. By understanding what the numbers on Costco price tags mean, you can:
- ✅ Identify clearance items before anyone else
- ✅ Spot limited-time markdowns
- ✅ Know when a product won’t be restocked
- ✅ Save extra money beyond regular member prices
This insider knowledge helps you shop smarter — and keep more cash in your wallet.
Decoding Costco Price Tags 🔍
Let’s break down the Costco price tag secrets step by step:
1. Prices Ending in .97 → Clearance Deals 🏷️🔥
If you see a product priced at $9.97, $19.97, $49.97, etc., that means it’s on clearance. Costco uses “.97” endings to mark items that have been reduced from the regular price.
👉 Pro tip: These deals are store-specific, so what’s on clearance in your Costco might not be the same in another. If you spot it, grab it before it’s gone!
2. Prices Ending in .00 or .88 → Manager’s Special 🏪✨
When you see tags like $10.00 or $19.88, that usually means it’s a manager’s markdown. These are often special discounts created by the store itself.
👉 This could mean damaged packaging, seasonal clearance, or a final push to clear shelf space.
3. Prices Ending in .49 or .79 → Manufacturer’s Deal 🎁
Items priced with endings like .49 or .79 are usually manufacturer promotions. This means the discount comes directly from the supplier, not Costco.
👉 These can be temporary — so if you love the product, stock up while it lasts!
4. Prices Ending in .99 → Regular Price 📦
Most Costco products end in .99. This simply means it’s the standard warehouse price. While it may still be cheaper than other retailers, it’s not a special markdown.
5. Asterisk (*) on the Price Tag → Discontinued ❌
If you see an asterisk (*) in the top right corner of the price tag, that means the item is discontinued and will not be restocked.
👉 This is your last chance to buy it! If you see a “.97” and an asterisk together, you’ve found a clearance item that’s about to disappear forever.
Real-Life Examples of Costco Price Tag Secrets 🛒
Imagine you walk into Costco and see two TVs:
- TV A: $499.99 → Regular price
- TV B: $449.97 → Clearance deal
Most shoppers wouldn’t think twice, but now you know TV B is not only cheaper — it’s also on clearance. Once it’s gone, it’s gone.
Insider Tips for Maximizing Savings 🧠💡
Here’s how to take your knowledge of Costco price tag secrets to the next level:
- Check Often – Clearance items change quickly. Visit Costco on weekdays when restocks happen.
- Compare Stores – Discounts vary by location. If you live near multiple Costcos, check them all.
- Look Beyond Big-Ticket Items – Snacks, clothing, and seasonal items often get big markdowns.
- Use the Costco App – Cross-check prices online to see if you’re truly getting the lowest offer.
- Buy Off-Season – Patio furniture in fall? Christmas items in January? That’s when you’ll see “.97” markdowns.
Why These Secrets Work Everywhere 📍
The great news? These Costco price tag secrets are consistent across U.S. and Canadian stores. While prices may vary, the codes themselves follow the same system. That means no matter where you shop, you can unlock hidden savings.
FAQs-About Costco Price Tag Secrets 🏷️❓
1. What does .97 mean on Costco price tags?
👉 At Costco, prices ending in .97 indicate clearance markdowns. These items are discounted from their original price and usually won’t be restocked.
2. What does an asterisk (*) on a Costco price tag mean?
👉 An asterisk in the upper-right corner of the tag means the item is discontinued or won’t be reordered. Once it’s gone, it’s gone for good.
3. Are Costco clearance items the same in every store?
👉 No. Clearance pricing is store-specific, so the same item may be on clearance in one location but full price in another.
4. Do Costco price tag secrets work online too?
👉 Not usually. Most of these price tag codes only apply in-store. Online pricing doesn’t show the same clearance codes.
5. What is the best day to shop at Costco for deals?
👉 Many shoppers find weekday mornings (Tuesday–Thursday) the best for clearance items since restocks and markdowns often happen then.
Final Thoughts: Shop Smart, Save Big at Costco 🛒💵
Learning the Costco price tag secrets gives you a real advantage over the average shopper. Instead of guessing, you’ll know exactly when you’re looking at a clearance item, a special markdown, or a discontinued product.
👉 Next time you’re at Costco, keep your eyes sharp for those .97 tags, .00 manager specials, and the sneaky asterisks. Your wallet will thank you! 💸
If you love saving money, don’t stop here:
- Discover how to spot shrinkflation in 2025 before it hurts your budget.
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- Cut bills instantly by unplugging devices and saving over $300 a year.
- Don’t miss huge discounts with the best Labor Day sales 2025.
- Score tasty savings with the Domino’s $3 pizza deal.
- And if travel is your passion, explore hidden gems at TravelBuzz.us.
So grab your shopping cart, use these hacks, and start unlocking big savings every time you step into Costco. 🚀
