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If you’re already a Sam’s Club member or are thinking about becoming a member, you should be aware of some upcoming changes from the retailer. Sam’s Club is setting minimum purchase amounts to qualify for free curbside pickup, free delivery, and free shipping. These changes will go into effect on August 19, 2024.
Here’s what you need to know before placing your next order.
Free curbside pickup for club members who spend $50 or more
Plus members are currently eligible for free curbside pickup with no minimum order. The benefit remains the same. In the meantime, Club members can pick up their orders curbside if they pay a $4 fee for each order. Soon, however, some Club members will be eligible for free curbside pickup. This change could help members keep more money in their checking accounts.
Starting August 19, 2024, Club members will be able to pick up orders fee-free if they meet a minimum order value of $50. If the minimum order value is not met, each order will incur a $4 curbside pickup fee. This is good news for Club members because they can save on fees by placing a larger order.
Curbside pickup remains a free service for Plus members, regardless of order quantity.
Minimum order values now apply for free shipping
Currently, Plus members are eligible for free shipping on select items purchased through the Sam’s Club website or mobile app, but starting next week, only some orders will qualify for free shipping.
Starting August 19, 2024, shipping will be free on orders of $50 or more. If the $50 threshold is not met, an $8 fee will apply. You can avoid this fee by placing a larger order on your next online purchase.
For Plus members, shipping is now free on orders of $50 or more.
Sam’s Club offers delivery at some locations, and even same-day delivery in select areas. Club and Plus members can have their orders delivered for a fee. Currently, Club members pay $12 per order for delivery, while Plus members pay $8 per order.
However, starting August 19, 2024, Plus members can avoid the delivery fee by meeting a minimum order value of $50, otherwise they will still be charged the $8 fee per order. Club members will continue to be charged a $12 fee per order when having items delivered to their home.
What is the difference between membership types?
If you’re considering joining Sam’s Club, you may be wondering how the membership options differ. A club membership costs $50 per year. This basic membership allows you to shop in the club or online and access the retailer’s best deals. It’s an affordable way to score big discounts.
Alternatively, you can pay more for a Plus membership, which costs $110 per year. You get the same perks as a Club membership, plus additional benefits like extra discounts at the pharmacy and opticians, and access to earlier shopping hours. As a Plus member, you can also earn 2% rewards on eligible purchases at Sam’s Club, up to a maximum of $500 per year.
Is Sam’s Club membership still worth it?
While these upcoming changes may impact how you order from the retailer, your benefits as a wholesaler will remain largely the same. For some members, the changes are positive.
If you’re a club member, you’ll now receive an additional benefit with your membership: access to free curbside pickup when placing eligible orders of $50 or more. If you use curbside pickup frequently, you can lower your credit card bill by avoiding pickup fees.
Not sure if your Sam’s Club membership is still worth it? As long as you take advantage of the perks offered, it’s worth it. For many shoppers, continuing their annual Sam’s Club membership is likely a good investment.
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