Costco customers shocked as member returns $44k worth of products – as shoppers warn store to ‘check’ the items

A COSTCO shopper has managed to successfully return thousands of dollars worth of items to the retailer.

Her returns totaled $44,000, leaving shoppers in disbelief and calling for the retailer to double-check her returns.

In the Costco subreddit, customers discussed absurd returns the retailer has accepted.

One notable slew of returns was made to Costco's jewelry department.

A Redditor shared how a woman returned three jewelry pieces to the retailer, totaling $11,000.

"In the last three years, she spent $54,000 total and returned $44,000 worth," they wrote.

While Costco is known for its lenient return policy, the retailer doesn't let every return slide unscathed.

After refunding the woman for most of her jewelry purchases, Costco banned her from making jewelry returns.

DIAMOND DECEIT

Redditors were quick to question the woman's pricey returns, anticipating that the retailer authenticated them before giving her money back.

"Hoped they check the stones," said one shopper, as another confirmed they are always checked upon return.

A Costco employee chimed in, noting that the return of funds is put on hold so the jewelry can be sent out to be properly tested for authenticity.

This process depends on the diamonds' carat size and jewelry cost.

The employee said duty managers and diamond testers in the membership department can also inspect the jewelry before refunding a customer.

They look for specific things on the jewelry to authenticate it and "match it against pictures and records using a database provided by corporate."

RIDICULOUS RETURNS

Costco's lax return policy has resulted in several questionable returns.

From half-eaten food to a 20-year-old car radio, shoppers have definitely taken advantage of the opportunity to get their money back on used or old items.

Another crazy return that managed to pass through customer service and come out the other end fully refunded was a used gym membership.

The retailer refunded a shopper $400 for a two-year fitness membership even though it only had two months before expiration.

"Had two months left on my 24 Hour Fitness membership purchased from Costco before the Covid shut downs," the shopper shared on Reddit.

Costco membership tiers

Costco customers can choose between three membership cards.

Gold Star Membership:

• $60 annual fee
• Includes a free household card
• Valid at all Costco locations worldwide

Executive Membership:

• $120 annual fee
• Includes a free household card
• Valid at all Costco locations worldwide
• Annual 2% reward on qualifying Costco purchases

Business Membership:

"Went to customer service out of curiosity on what their procedures would be for something like this.

"They gave me a full refund on the 2-year pass I purchased without batting an eye. I was dumbfounded."

In related news, another Costco shopper was "in shock" after the retailer accepted their return for a year-old item.

Plus, Costco fans "stopped dead in their tracks" as a shopper returned an entire 30-person turkey meal for a full refund.