Most people probably never noticed but the last couple of numbers on Costco prices actually vary in a very particular way. The numbers and symbols on a Costco price tag typically end in .97 but you might also come across other numbers or the asterisk (*). It turns out that Costco has a hidden pricing system that can help you spot the best deals if you know how it works. So let me enlighten you!
This guide explains the meaning behind Costco price endings, how to find clearance and markdown items, and the difference between regular prices, manager discounts, and discontinued products. I’m focussing on both Canada and the U.S. That’s because I sometimes pop into Costco locations in the U.S. such as the one that’s only two hours from Montreal, in Burlington Vermont, or in Florida when I visit, and so on. I’m including info I discovered about Costco pricing codes in Canada and the US. So if you like to travel, you’ll learn some insider tips to save more.
Why Costco Price Endings Matter
Walmart has their “price drop” discount marketing approach. Other retailers, label their products with a “Clearance,” “Liquidation,” or “Final Sale” sign. Sadly, seeing “liquidation” has become more of a marketing gimmick for non-savvy shoppers since I have not seen a true liquidation in a very, very long time. Liquidation should mean that it’s like 80% off, not 15% off, but I digress.
In any case, when it comes to Costco, they use a subtle system of price endings and symbols that reveal whether a product is full price, marked down, or being discontinued. Understanding this system can help you make smarter purchases and save money.
What do Costco price endings mean?
Here’s a standard shelf price tag. (It’s from a Montreal, Quebec store so the label is for luggage but listed in French).
Costco price ending in .99 and an asterisk (*).
.99: Regular Price
A price ending in .99 is Costco’s standard full price. There are no discounts applied, and it’s not on clearance. If you’re buying something at this price, you’re paying the regular retail rate. You can most likely expect to see the item again and again.
Examples:
- Canada: $11.99
- U.S.: $14.99
.97: Markdown or Clearance Item
If you see a price tag ending in .97, that’s a clear sign the product has been marked down. These are typically clearance items that won’t be restocked once they’re sold out. These markdowns are often location-specific. That means you might find the deal at one store (warehouse, really, but I call them stores) but not come across it at others. Many shoppers search online for phrases like “what does .97 mean at Costco?” and the answer is simple: It’s a clearance deal, often the best value in the store, even compared to Costco’s generally great prices.
Examples:
- Canada: $10.97
- U.S.: $12.97
.00 or .88: Manager’s Special or Final Markdown
When you see a price ending in .00 or .88, it usually indicates a store-specific manager markdown. These might be returned items, damaged packaging, floor models, or products that need to be cleared out quickly. These prices can vary from one store to the next and typically reflect the manager’s discretion. This is similar to what you might see at many chain stores where the manager has store-specific specials in addition to the ones that can be found at every location in a city or region.
Examples:
- Canada: $15.00 or $28.88
- U.S.: $19.88 or $25.00
.49 or .79: Manufacturer Discount
If the price ends in .49 or .79, it usually means there is a manufacturer-funded discount. Costco didn’t reduce the price. It’s actually the brand behind the product offering a temporary deal. These items may not be marked as “on sale,” but the price reflects a short-term promotion.
Examples:
- Canada: $11.79 or $12.49
- U.S.: $8.49 or $9.79
What does the asterisk (*) mean on a Costco price tag?
If you see an asterisk in the top right corner of a Costco price sign, it means the product is discontinued or won’t be restocked. Once inventory runs out, it’s gone. Items marked with an asterisk are often combined with a .97 price ending, indicating a final clearance item. This symbol is often overlooked, but it’s one of the most important signs savvy Costco shoppers rely on.
U.S. vs. Canada: Are the Costco price codes the same?
Yes, Costco uses the same pricing code system in both the U.S. and Canada, but pricing can vary due to:
- Exchange rates
- Import costs
- Supplier differences
Canadian Costcos may feature more markdowns in certain categories (like clothing and seasonal items which come and go). Locations in the U.S. apparently use the .00 or .88 manager markdowns more frequently.
How to Spot Costco Clearance Deals Like a Pro
Here is a quick reference chart to help you understand what each price ending at Costco means:
Quick reference to Costco pricing codes.
Costco Pricing Code Takeaways
- .97 means the product is on clearance.
- .00 or .88 suggests a manager’s markdown.
- .49 or .79 indicates a manufacturer discount.
- .99 is the regular price.
- An asterisk in the top right means the item won’t return once sold out.
Once you understand these Costco price codes, you’ll shop smarter and spot hidden deals before they’re gone!
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