5 Things Costco Only Sells Online

Many people love going to Costco for their weekly grocery shopping. But even if you're someone who's used to visiting a warehouse club store, it pays to visit Costco.com on occasion and see what the site has in stock.

Some of the items you'll see on Costco.com are only available online. Here are some items you won't find in stores.

1. Sports memorabilia

You can find your fair share of sporting equipment at Costco warehouse club stores. But if you're in the market for sports memorabilia and collectible items, you'll generally need to visit Costco.com. You may also need to brace yourself for some numbers that might truly bust your budget.

For example, Costco is selling this Larry Bird autographed basketball for $1,599.99 (though if it's any consolation, that price includes shipping). You can also find an autographed framed photograph of Tom Brady for $2,299.99.

The nice thing about buying sports memorabilia from Costco.com is that you're purchasing it from a source that stands behind its products. If you run into issues with authenticity, you can contact customer service and work with them to make things right.

However, do proceed with caution if you're buying sports memorabilia as an investment. It's one thing to buy an autographed item because you're a huge fan. But if your goal is to make money, opening a brokerage account or IRA, loading up on stocks, and holding them for many years may be a much better way to go.

2. Caskets

A casket is hardly a fun purchase -- but unfortunately, it sometimes becomes a necessary one. Costco sells a variety of caskets with prices currently ranging from $1,149.99 to $1,399.99.

If you're on a tighter budget than that, you may need to look outside of Costco. Otherwise, you can contact Prime Caskets at 800-294-8548 before placing your Costco.com order to confirm your delivery date. Costco says that based on your location, you may have your casket in under three business days.

3. Patio furniture

While Costco does carry a limited amount of furniture in its warehouse club stores, much of its furniture inventory can only be purchased online. But that makes sense, because unless you happen to drive a truck, how do you expect to lug large furniture items home from your local store along with your milk and muffins?

Costco's online furniture offerings can also vary a bit by season. But right now, you'll find various patio sets for a range of price points. This seven-piece SunVilla set, for example, costs $1,499.99. Or if you're on a tighter budget, try this set that's on sale for $989.99.

One thing you should know about buying patio furniture from Costco is that your price includes delivery only -- not setup. If you're not handy enough to assemble furniture, you may want to buy your items from a local store, where setup may be available.

4. Gourmet food

A lot of the food you'll find at your local Costco warehouse is of the budget-friendly variety. But Costco sells its share of high-end food, too -- albeit online.

Now as you might imagine, the cost of buying gourmet food from Costco.com is quite substantial because you're not only looking at pricier items, but also, you're often looking at large quantities. For example, a 10-pound case of gourmet Sockeye salmon costs $229.99. And while you'll find plenty of low-cost cakes and desserts at your local Costco bakery, if you want a tiered special occasion cake, you can only buy it online -- and it'll cost you $299.99.

5. Hardwood flooring

Looking to update your home? If you're interested in putting in hardwood flooring, you may be surprised to learn that Costco carries different varieties in stock.

However, do your research before buying hardwood flooring from Costco, because if you go through a home improvement store or contractor, you may end up with a comparable price that includes installation. With Costco.com, you get your wood delivered to your curb, but you'll have to figure out installation yourself, which could be tricky work.

Although Costco.com's prices are generally higher for items that are also sold in stores, in some cases, it could pay to buy an online-only item from Costco. But always read the fine print to see what your price entails. You don't want to get caught off guard with extra shipping costs (which may apply to some purchases) or, in the case of furniture, having to do your own assembly.