Planning a trip to Costco for gas means knowing when the pumps are actually available. As a member-focused warehouse club, Costco sets its gas station hours to match when members typically shop, helping you maximize your membership value. Costco gas stations are not open 24 hours. They operate on set schedules designed around typical member needs, allowing you to plan fuel stops during convenient times.
Operating hours differ by location, but most Costco gas stations open early in the morning and close in the late evening. Typical hours range from 6-7 a.m. opening to 9:30 p.m. closing on weekdays, with different schedules on weekends. Gas stations also close on major holidays when Costco warehouses shut down. Since schedules vary, checking your local station’s hours before you head out is always smart.
Costco Gas Station Overview
Fuel Quality and Brand
Costco sells Kirkland Signature Gasoline, their private label fuel brand that maintains high-quality standards. The gasoline undergoes regular testing and often exceeds engine performance requirements. Costco sources fuel from major refineries, and members can count on Kirkland Signature gas to help maintain engine cleanliness and efficiency.
Membership Requirements for Gas Purchases
You need a Costco membership to use their gas stations. Membership gives you access to the lower fuel prices Costco offers to shoppers. Whether visiting a nearby location or one farther from home, using Costco gas pumps is a benefit tied to your membership.
How to Pay at Costco Gas Stations
Costco gas stations accept Visa cards, Costco Shop Cards, and most PIN debit cards for payment. This payment structure aligns with Costco’s Visa partnership and provides a secure, convenient transaction process. Cash, checks, and other credit cards are not accepted, which keeps transactions fast and uniform across all locations.
Operating Hours and Access
Weekday and Weekend Schedules
Weekdays: Most Costco gas stations open at 6 a.m. and close at 9:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. This gives you a generous time window to fuel up before or after your daily routine.
Weekends: Saturday hours typically run from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. at many stations, while Sunday hours may be shorter, often 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Always verify your local Costco’s operating hours since weekend closing times can differ by location.
Holiday Hours and Special Schedules
Certain holidays affect Costco gas station hours throughout the year. Major holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas typically mean complete closures. Other holidays might feature reduced hours, so checking the holiday schedule ahead of time helps you avoid showing up to closed pumps.
Pricing and Payment Details
Gas Prices and Member Value
Costco maintains competitive gasoline pricing, which adds up to substantial savings for regular customers. As a members-only fueling location, the exclusivity helps ensure you’re getting better fuel deals compared to many competing stations. Prices fluctuate with market conditions, but Costco works to keep rates competitive.
Available Payment Options
Costco gas stations provide several payment methods for convenient pay-at-the-pump transactions:
Accepted Payment Methods:
- Visa credit cards for fuel purchases
- PIN debit cards at all pumps
- Costco Shop Cards for gas or as gifts
- Mobile payments through Apple Pay or Google Pay
- Costco membership card required to start transactions
Make sure your payment method matches what Costco accepts to ensure a smooth refueling experience.
Member Experience and Services
Best Times to Visit for Faster Service
Optimal Visiting Times: To skip crowds and get faster service, weekdays during early morning or late evening hours work best. Check your local station’s specific hours since these can vary by location.
Busy Periods: Weekends and times right after warehouse closing tend to be busiest.
Extended Hours: Some locations offer gas service after the main warehouse closes. Use the Costco gas locator or mapping apps to confirm availability at your preferred station.
Station Features and Services
Convenient Facilities: Costco gas stations operate as self-service locations with extra-long hoses that speed up the fueling process regardless of which side your gas tank is on. In Oregon and New Jersey, where self-service isn’t allowed, gas station attendants are available to help.
Customer Support: Help with fuel questions or problems is available through FAQs or direct customer service assistance.
Fuel Choices: Select locations offer diesel fuel, and all stations provide various octane levels to meet your vehicle’s requirements while maintaining top-tier fuel standards for performance and engine health.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use Costco gas without going into the warehouse? Yes, you can access the gas station without entering the warehouse as long as you have your membership card.
Q: Do all Costco locations have gas stations? No, not every Costco warehouse has an attached gas station. Use the online locator to find locations with fuel service.
Q: Can non-members buy gas at Costco? Generally no, but Costco Shop Card holders can use the gas pumps even without a membership.
Q: Why do Costco gas stations close earlier than 24-hour stations? Costco aligns gas station hours with member shopping patterns rather than operating continuously.
Key Takeaways
Costco gas stations offer quality fuel at competitive prices but don’t operate 24/7. Most locations run from early morning to late evening on weekdays, with adjusted weekend hours and holiday closures. Always verify your local station’s schedule before visiting, and take advantage of less busy times like weekday mornings or evenings for faster service.