Sam’s Club has long been a popular destination for savvy shoppers looking to buy in bulk and save on everyday essentials. With a range of membership options and numerous perks, it’s been a go-to retailer for many households.
However, if you’re a current Sam’s Club member or have been considering joining, it’s important to be aware of some significant changes coming your way.
Starting August 19, 2024, Sam’s Club will implement order minimums for various services, including curbside pickup, delivery, and shipping. Here’s what you need to know to make the most of your membership.
Free Curbside Pickup: New Minimums for Club Members
One of the most convenient services Sam’s Club offers is curbside pickup, which allows you to order online and have your items brought directly to your car.
Currently, this service is free for Plus members, who can take advantage of this perk with no minimum order requirement. Club members, on the other hand, have been paying a $4 fee per order for curbside pickup.
This is set to change on August 19, 2024. From that date forward, Club members will be able to enjoy free curbside pickup as long as their order meets a minimum threshold of $50. If the order is under $50, the $4 fee will still apply.
This is a positive change for many Club members, as it offers a way to save on fees simply by planning and placing larger orders.
Plus members will continue to enjoy free curbside pickup regardless of the order amount. This remains one of the many benefits that make the Plus membership an attractive option for frequent Sam’s Club shoppers.
Free Shipping Now Comes with Conditions
Another significant change coming to Sam’s Club is the introduction of minimum order amounts for free shipping.
Currently, Plus members can enjoy free shipping on eligible items purchased through the Sam’s Club website or mobile app without worrying about order size. This is one of the key benefits that have made the Plus membership so appealing.
However, starting August 19, 2024, free shipping will only be available on orders of $50 or more. If your order doesn’t meet this threshold, an $8 shipping fee will apply.
This means that Plus members who regularly place smaller orders online will need to adjust their shopping habits to avoid incurring additional costs.
By bundling items together and placing larger orders, you can continue to enjoy the convenience of free shipping.
Delivery Fees: A New $50 Threshold for Plus Members
In addition to changes to curbside pickup and shipping, Sam’s Club is also updating its delivery fee structure. Currently, both Club and Plus members can have their orders delivered for a fee, with Club members paying $12 per order and Plus members paying $8 per order.
Starting August 19, 2024, Plus members can avoid the delivery fee by meeting a minimum order threshold of $50. If the order is under $50, the $8 fee will still apply. Club members will continue to pay $12 per order for delivery, with no changes to the fee structure for this membership tier.
This update is a significant benefit for Plus members who frequently use the delivery service, as it offers another way to save money by placing larger orders.
Comparing Membership Options: Club vs. Plus
If you’re considering joining Sam’s Club or upgrading your current membership, it’s essential to understand the differences between the two main membership options: Club and Plus.
A Club membership costs $50 per year and offers access to the retailer’s best deals both in-store and online. This basic membership is an affordable way to enjoy the benefits of shopping at Sam’s Club, including significant discounts on a wide range of products.
On the other hand, a Plus membership costs $110 annually and includes all the perks of a Club membership, plus additional benefits.
These extra benefits include pharmacy and optical discounts, access to early shopping hours, and the ability to earn 2% rewards on eligible purchases, up to a maximum of $500 in rewards per year.
Plus members also enjoy free curbside pickup with no order minimums and, as of August 19, free delivery and shipping on orders of $50 or more.
When deciding which membership option is right for you, consider your shopping habits and how often you use services like curbside pickup, delivery, and shipping.
If you frequently shop at Sam’s Club and take advantage of these services, the additional benefits of a Plus membership may outweigh the higher annual fee.
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Is a Sam’s Club Membership Still Worth It?
With these upcoming changes, some members may be wondering whether a Sam’s Club membership is still a good value. The answer largely depends on how you use your membership and which services you value the most.
For Club members, the introduction of a free curbside pickup option with a $50 minimum order is a welcome addition. This change can help you save money on fees and make the most of your membership.
If you frequently use curbside pickup and are strategic about your order sizes, you can avoid the $4 fee altogether.
For Plus members, the new minimum order thresholds for free shipping and delivery may require some adjustments to your shopping habits.
However, the additional benefits of a Plus membership, including rewards on eligible purchases and extra discounts, continue to offer significant value.
By placing larger orders and planning ahead, you can continue to enjoy the convenience of free shipping and delivery while maximizing your savings.
Ultimately, a Sam’s Club membership remains a worthwhile investment for many shoppers, especially those who take full advantage of the perks and discounts offered.
Whether you choose a Club or Plus membership, the key is to make sure you’re getting the most value for your money by using the services and benefits that matter most to you.
Conclusion
As Sam’s Club rolls out these new changes on August 19, 2024, it’s essential to stay informed and adjust your shopping habits accordingly.
By understanding the new order minimums and how they affect services like curbside pickup, shipping, and delivery, you can continue to enjoy the benefits of your membership while minimizing additional costs.
Whether you’re a Club member or a Plus member, these changes offer new opportunities to save and make the most of your shopping experience at Sam’s Club.