Crack the Code:
Costco's Secret Prices
Master the hidden pricing signals that Costco insiders use to find the best deals. Learn what price endings really mean and never miss a markdown again.
Every Costco price tag tells a story—if you know how to read it. The numbers aren't random. The decimal endings, asterisks, and specific price points all signal different types of deals, markdowns, and clearance events.
Understanding these Costco price codes can save you hundreds of dollars and help you spot limited-time manager specials before they're gone. Here's your complete guide to decoding Costco's secret pricing system.
The 5 Price Codes You Need to Know
Each price ending at Costco reveals critical information about the deal type, inventory status, and how long the price will last.
Full Regular Price
Prices ending in .99 indicate the item is at its standard, full retail price. This is Costco's everyday pricing—no special discount or markdown.
Clearance Pricing
Prices ending in .97 indicate corporate-initiated clearance. These markdowns are decided by Costco's buyers and corporate team—not individual store managers. Expect significant discounts and limited inventory.
Manufacturer Special
Prices ending in .49 or .79 signal manufacturer-sponsored deals. These are often trial runs or promotional pricing, usually cheaper than regular retail.
Manager Special - Local Only
Prices ending in .00 are warehouse-specific manager markdowns. Store management has decided to clear this inventory quickly. These deals are location-specific—you won't find the same .00 price at other Costco warehouses.
Asterisk: Item Won't Be Restocked
The asterisk (*) in the top right corner of a price tag is the ultimate insider signal. It means this item will not be restocked—once it's gone, it's gone forever. Often paired with steep discounts to clear remaining inventory.
Pro Shopping Strategies
Check the Price Tag Corners
The asterisk is small and easy to miss—always scan the top right corner of price signs for this critical discontinuation indicator.
Visit Midweek for Fresh Markdowns
Tuesday through Thursday often see new .97 clearance markdowns as inventory is evaluated. Avoid weekends when competition for deals is highest.
Track Prices Automatically with Droply
Don't rely on memory or luck. Use Droply's Chrome extension to automatically track Costco prices and get instant alerts when items drop—perfect for catching .97 clearance markdowns the moment they happen.
Combine with Price Adjustments
If you bought something at full price (.99) within the last 30 days and it drops to .97 or .00, you can claim a price adjustment refund. Droply tracks this automatically and reminds you to claim your money back.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are .97 and .00 prices the same at every Costco?+
No. While .97 clearance prices are set by corporate/buyers, they may vary by region. .00 prices are completely warehouse-specific—each store manager decides what to mark down with .00 pricing. A .00 deal at one Costco won't necessarily exist at another location.
How long do clearance markdowns last?+
Typically 1-2 weeks for .97 clearance items, but .00 warehouse markdowns can disappear even faster since managers want them gone immediately. Popular items at these prices can sell out in days or hours.
Can I get a price adjustment if an item drops to .97 or .00?+
Yes! Costco's 30-day price adjustment policy applies to clearance markdowns. If you bought something at .99 and it drops to .97 or .00 within 30 days, bring your receipt to customer service for a refund of the difference.
What does the asterisk mean on online prices?+
The asterisk works the same way online—it signals that the item will not be restocked once current inventory sells out. Online asterisk items often sell out faster due to nationwide availability.
How does Droply help me find these deals?+
Droply automatically tracks prices on items you're watching and sends instant alerts when prices drop—including .97 clearance markdowns. You'll also get reminders to claim price adjustments if items drop within your 30-day window.
Never Miss a Costco Deal Again
Now that you know the secret price codes, let Droply do the work. Automatically track prices, get instant drop alerts, and claim price adjustments—all with one click.
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