Sam’s Club vs. Costco: Who has the better return policy?

Wholesale clubs Costco and Sam’s Club are both known for low prices and high-quality groceries, prepared meals, and tons of other goods, not to mention cheap gas. For many people, their choice of wholesale club comes down to which store is closer to home.

Ideally, you’re always happy with your purchases at Sam’s Club or Costco. But if not, what are these stores’ return policies like?

Sam’s Club Return Policy

Sam’s Club has a generous return policy with a “100% satisfaction guarantee,” according to its website. The club says it will take most items back at any time, and that can include items that are years old.

However, you may need all original packaging and parts, as well as any warranty cards. “In some cases, we may have to refuse a refund entirely, or provide a partial refund if only part of the purchase is returned,” the website says.

Additionally, Sam’s Club states that it is “preferred” to have original receipts or printed orders with all returns, but the store does its best to accommodate returns without a receipt as well. Although it is not specifically mentioned on the website, it is likely that returns without a receipt will be issued a store credit rather than cash or a credit to your account.

There are some restrictions to the policy. Electronics and large appliances must be returned within 90 days. Commercial heavy machinery and motorsports equipment must be returned within 30 days. Cell phones must be returned within 14 days. Custom items, tickets, gift cards and prescriptions are not refundable.

Costco Return Policy

Like Sam’s Club, Costco offers its members a risk-free 100% satisfaction guarantee. Costco has less fine print than Sam’s Club when it comes to returns. The club is known for taking back virtually any merchandise at any time, either for a cash refund, credit to your account, or merchandise credit.

Some exceptions apply, similar to Sam’s Club. Costco does not refund gift cards or tickets, such as event or airline tickets. Gold and silver bullion and bars are non-refundable. Cigarettes and alcohol are non-refundable where prohibited by law.

Finally, Costco offers a 90-day return policy on electronics and major appliances.

Diploma

Reading the terms, both stores appear to have comparable return policies. However, in-store returns may be at the discretion of employees or store managers, meaning the policies may be open to interpretation. Since Sam’s Club requires items to be in their original packaging with all parts, employees may have more leeway to refuse a return.

If you try to return goods at one of the stores and the employee refuses your refund, you can ask to speak to a manager or go to another store.

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