What does the asterisk on a Costco price tag mean?

Costco trips can feel like a treasure hunt, and it turns out there’s a secret language hidden right on the price tags. You might have spotted a mysterious asterisk on some items and wondered what it meant.

That little symbol is a huge heads-up for savvy shoppers looking to make the most of their warehouse visits. Costco is giving you a big tip on what to expect from shopping for that particular item, and it’s not a small one.

The asterisk is just one piece of the puzzle. Costco’s pricing system has several other subtle codes that can help you shop smarter. For instance, any price ending in .99 means you’re looking at a full-price item. This is the regular Costco deal, without any additional markdowns from the store itself.

If you see an asterisk on an item you want, it is time to buy that item

That asterisk, often called the “death star” by some, means the item is likely leaving Costco’s shelves soon. This could be because Costco decided to stop carrying it. It could also mean the manufacturer might have discontinued the product entirely. If you see it on a beloved snack or a household staple, you’ll definitely want to stock up. It might be your last chance to grab it at Costco.

It’s not always a final goodbye, though. The asterisk simply means the item number is pending deletion in the system. This sometimes points to a packaging change, or it could be a seasonal item that will return next year. If you’re really curious, you can always ask a warehouse employee for more details. They usually have the inside scoop on easy sales you will love.

If you spot a price ending in .49 or .79, that’s a special promotional price. These deals come directly from the manufacturer and are only available for a limited time. It’s a great opportunity to grab a brand-name item at a lower cost before it goes back to its standard .99 price.

The real gems often hide behind prices ending in .97. This signifies a clearance item or a manager markdown, and it’s usually the lowest possible price you’ll find for that product. These discounts are often exclusive to that specific warehouse, so if you see something you like with a .97 tag, it’s a good idea to snap it up quickly.

Prices ending in .00 or .88 also warrant a closer look. These usually mean the stock is low, and the manager wants to clear the item out of the store. This often results in a lower price. It can also indicate that the item was a return, so make sure to inspect it for any damage before you buy.

You can prioritize purchases, know when to stock up, and feel confident that you’re getting the best possible deal. Make sure to keep that receipt too, since Costco doesn’t play with its receipt check policy.