The Awkward And Risky Move Some Costco Customers Make At Checkout

Costco employee members have seen it all. Whether it's a shopper blocking an entire aisle with an orange flatbed cart or leaving frozen food in the wrong section, some members can be downright rude. But these are just some examples of the worst types of Costco shoppers. There's one frustrating member faux pas that employees see regularly at the checkout line: leaving membership cards on top of the checkout dividers. You may think it's easier for employees to notice and scan since it's right in front of them, but it doesn't really cut down on time — and it can be more trouble than it's worth.

Leaving a membership card flat against the divider or propping it upright in the divider slot may seem helpful, but it actually slows things down or can get overlooked altogether. By doing this, you run the risk of it falling under the conveyor belt. Depending on the cashier, they may have to open the register to retrieve it (which can cause a backup), or you'll be told to get a new one at the membership desk. Either way, you'll be stuck at Costco for a lot longer than you'd like, and you'll probably get some annoyed looks from other customers — possibly employees, too.

On Reddit, it's a hotly debated topic. Some call the habit "strange" or "rude," while others think it's a "smart" or "helpful" idea. Though placing a card on or against the divider can come off as pretentious and impersonal for some, it may seem perfectly fine to others. According to one shopper, "[The habit] makes everything easier for everyone, even just for a second. My dad hates chat, and the cashier looked like he did too. They just sat in silent bliss while everything went smoothly." Still, for most people, that small moment of interaction can spark up bit of small talk and make the experience feel less dreary.

On the employee side, it ultimately depends on store policy and preference. In fact, Costco's checkout policies can be pretty strict. "I got trained at one store to put the credit card in the divider. I moved 200 miles away, and the Costco in my new area doesn't seem to find it helpful. In fact, the cashiers get a little annoyed," another shared in the Reddit thread, and many seem to agree. 

Before COVID, this move was more common. But large plexiglass barriers and social distancing guidelines made Costco customers more likely to present the card directly to the cashier, instead of leaving it on or near the divider. Ultimately, however, it's a habit that's not worth the risk. Just show it at the register and slide your membership card back into your wallet for a smoother experience.

If you're actually trying to make it easier for everyone, there's a better way to move through the checkout at Costco. Simply download Costco Mobile App, log in (or create an account), and verify your membership. You can then view and use your membership card, digitally. You can also link your Costco Anywhere Visa Card by Citi to your digital card for a more seamless experience. It cuts down on bulk in your wallet, and avoids the risk of losing it or having it fall through the conveyor belt if it's left on the divider. Plus, it makes paying super easy. If you prefer to use your physical card, make sure to have it and your cash or credit card ready when it's your turn at the register. Just remember that Visa is the only credit card Costco accepts at checkout.

Costco is also experimenting with improving the checkout experience. While warehouse competitor Sam's Club is still ahead with its Scan and Go app feature and curbside pickup option, Costco is working to catch up with a Scan & Pay system. In a June 2025 earnings call, executives revealed that in a pilot program consisting of 27 warehouses, the company has already seen faster transactions. You may not see this roll out nationwide anytime soon, but it's a step in the right direction for a better customer experience.