5 Things Sam's Club Does Better Than Costco

Sam's Club has unique offerings you won't find at Costco.

As the products we buy every day become more expensive, many shoppers are looking for any opportunity to get a great deal. If you're feeling the financial strain of rising living costs, you may want to consider shopping at a different retailer to keep more money in your checking account. 

A warehouse club membership may be ideal for stocking up on bargain bulk buys. If you're considering joining a warehouse club like Sam's Club or Costco, you may wonder which club is better. Sam's Club has several stand-out features that could make it a better fit for you. 

1. Membership fees are cheaper 

You must pay for a membership to shop at a warehouse club. The yearly membership prices for Sam's Club and Costco are relatively similar -- but you'll pay less to shop at Sam's Club. Both clubs have two non-business membership tiers. Below is a breakdown of the prices: 

Costco:

• Gold Star membership: $60
• Executive membership: $120

Sam's Club:

• Club membership: $50 
• Plus membership: $110 

As you can see, it's slightly cheaper to join Sam's Club. Sure, a $10 price difference is small, but if you're trying to keep your extra spending to a minimum, it's the most affordable option. 

2. Prices are the same in-club and online 

Depending on which warehouse club you join, you may pay higher prices to shop online. Prices listed at Costco.com can differ from those shown at your local club. Costco notes that you may spend more money to buy products at Costco.com due to shipping, handling, and delivery fees. However, Sam's Club does things differently. Prices listed at SamsClub.com are the same as those at your local club. That means you'll get the best deal whether you shop in-club or online. 

3. Plus members can shop earlier than Club members 

Costco and Sam's Club offer more perks to customers with higher-tier memberships. But Costco no longer offers early shopping hours to members with Executive memberships. Sam's Club opens its clubs earlier for shoppers with pricier Plus memberships.  

While hours of operation can vary depending on location and the day of the week, you can generally expect to be allowed to shop at Sam's Club one to two hours before regular opening hours if you have a Plus membership. This valuable perk can help you beat the crowds. 

4. Scan and Go lets you skip the checkout line 

One Sam's Club perk that could be a win for shoppers who are short on extra time is the Scan and Go service. All members can use this time-saving service through the Sam's Club mobile app. The best part is it costs $0 to use. 

Here's how it works:

1. As you shop, scan each item's barcode before putting it in your cart.
2. When you're done, pay for your purchases through the app.
3. Show your digital receipt on the way out.

5. Members can save time with curbside pickup 

If you're a fan of curbside pickup, Sam's Club may be the warehouse club for you. All members can utilize this service. Club members must pay a $4 fee per order, but Plus members can use it for free. Costco previously tested out this offering but no longer has curbside pickup. If you value added convenience, you may want to choose to join Sam's Club.

Review benefits before joining 

Could you save money by joining a warehouse club? It's possible. Many shoppers save by doing so. But consider your current shopping and spending habits before joining to determine if it's a good move for you. You may be able to improve your personal finances by spending less money on groceries and household essentials. 

But which club should you join? If you're trying to decide whether to join Sam's Club or Costco, review the membership benefits and perks offered before spending money on a yearly membership. You want to make sure you can get the most out of your investment.