Costco is experimenting with a lightning-fast checkout system in select locations across the United States, aiming to cut checkout times to under 10 seconds, as confirmed by the company's CEO and President, Ron Vachris, to Telemundo 51.
The system, referred to as employee pre-scan technology, is currently in its pilot phase and is part of a broader strategy to enhance technological capabilities, which also includes advancements in mobile wallets and pharmacy pre-payment options.
The concept is simple yet innovative: while customers wait in line, a Costco employee approaches their cart and scans all items before they reach the checkout counter.
Once at the checkout, customers find their items already logged into the system, needing only to scan their membership card, confirm their purchases, and complete the payment.
Streamlining the Shopping Experience
Costco aims to ensure this final process takes less than 10 seconds, with some reports indicating an average transaction time of just eight seconds.
In some instances, the pre-scan will be applied only to carts with a small number of easily accessible items, as noted by the company. Regular Costco shoppers have often reported waiting times of over 20 minutes in traditional checkout lines, making these queues a significant pain point in the shopping experience.
Mixed Reactions to the New System
Despite its potential benefits, the new method has stirred some controversy, with users dubbing it a ticking time bomb due to disputes over line-cutting, leading to mixed reactions among loyal customers.
Vachris announced the system alongside Chief Financial Officer Gary Millerchip during the fiscal second-quarter 2026 earnings call held on March 11, where the company reported net sales of $68.24 billion for the quarter.
"In our stores, we are achieving significant improvements in checkout speed and employee productivity, thanks to enhancements in mobile wallets, pharmacy pre-payment, and the implementation of employee pre-scan technology," the executive stated.
Some customers have already noted the new system being operational in their local stores.
FAQs on Costco's New Express Checkout System
What is Costco's new express checkout system?
Costco's new express checkout system uses employee pre-scan technology to reduce checkout times to under 10 seconds by scanning items in customers' carts before they reach the checkout counter.
How does the employee pre-scan process work?
While customers wait in line, a Costco employee scans the items in their cart. When customers reach the checkout, their items are already recorded, allowing for a quick scan of the membership card, purchase confirmation, and payment.
Are there any concerns about the new checkout system?
Some users have raised concerns about the potential for disputes over line-cutting, which has led to mixed reactions from customers.