Currently, Plus members get free shipping on orders, but starting August 19, the perk will only be applied to purchases of $50 or more.
Any order under that amount will have an $8 delivery fee attached.
“Been a member for 15 years, and PAY a membership for a reason, and it's not to be charged even more for shipping," wrote a customer on X.
“Literally just canceled my membership and moved to Costco."
Costco membership sharing guidelines
Costco has strict rules for membership use that shoppers must follow and they've been cracking down on offenders in recent years.
Primary Member Use: Only the primary cardholder can use this Costco membership card. Sharing it for purchases is not allowed as the photo on the card must match the person using it.
Household Card: Each primary member can add one free household cardholder who lives at the same address. This person will receive their own membership card and can shop at Costco independently.
Guest Policy: Members can bring up to two guests per visit to Costco. However, only the member can make purchases. Guests must be accompanied by the member.
Authorized Cardholder: For an additional fee, you can add an authorized cardholder, such as a family member or friend, who doesn't reside at your address. They will receive their own card and can shop independently.
Others argued that free shipping was the main reason most people paid extra for the Plus membership.
The basic membership is $50, while the Plus membership is $110 annually.
"So now we have to spend a minimum of $50 to get free shipping on top of the $110 annual fee?" asked a disgruntled shopper.
"Peace out. Won't be renewing next year."
Sam's Club told The U.S. Sun that it is improving the online availability of items as part of this move and that more items will ship for free.
"With this change, we are providing members with access to different ways of shopping, making it easier for them to get the products they want, when and how they want them – all designed to help them get more value from their membership."
A retail expert told The U.S. Sun that Costco's membership spike is no cause for concern about store price hikes.
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