*Costco is now offering a pre-scan checkout system at its warehouses nationwide, aimed at reducing the time customers spend in line. The system works by having staff scan all items in a shopper’s cart while they wait. When the member reaches the register, they only need to scan their ID and complete payment, Delish reports.
According to Costco CFO Gary Millerchip, transactions using the pre-scan method average just eight seconds. He noted that early reactions from members have been encouraging, with many reporting that the process moves more smoothly and reduces congestion near registers.
Shoppers who have tried the system have praised its convenience. One Reddit user commented on the relief for cashiers, who no longer need to manually scan large numbers of items. Others who experienced pre-scanning at standard checkout lanes noted that it significantly cuts down wait times.
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Despite these improvements, some members believe Costco’s technology still falls short of competitors. Sam’s Club, for example, has offered a Scan & Go program for roughly ten years, allowing customers to scan products as they shop and pay directly on their phones. Sam’s Club has also added a “Just Go” feature, which uses AI to verify purchases at the exit, removing the need for employees to check receipts manually. Social media users have expressed that a similar system at Costco would make a noticeable difference, especially when stores are crowded.
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While Costco may not fully match the convenience offered by other chains, the pre-scan system represents a step forward. By scanning carts ahead of time, the company can speed up checkout, improve traffic flow, and make the experience easier for both members and staff.
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