Shopping for most people is relatively hassle-free, but for those using wheelchairs, it can be highly challenging, especially when retailers don’t have wheelchairs in stores for shoppers to use. Some stores have motorized shopping carts, but this isn’t always ideal and may not be suitable for those with specific disabilities. Costco is a widely loved and popular wholesaler but do they have wheelchairs for shoppers?
Costco has a small number of wheelchairs available for shoppers when they visit the store. They also have a few motorized shopping carts for those who require assistance from a motorized vehicle while shopping. At Costco, wheelchairs can also be fitted with carts to help make shopping easier.
It is becoming more common for retailers to assist those with disabilities. This assistance is provided through assistance services and mobility devices to make shopping stress free and easy. Costco is one of these retailers, but how does using a wheelchair from Costco work, and can any Costco shopper use one of their wheelchairs?
Does Costco Provide Wheelchairs For Shoppers?
Costco provides wheelchairs for shoppers in many of its stores. Wheelchairs are available to any customer shopping at Costco, and there are shopping carts that can be attached to the wheelchairs to help wheelchair users carry their shopping items.
With a Costco membership card, you can bring two additional people to the store to assist you while shopping. It’s best to get someone to help you if you use a Costco wheelchair, as there may not be a shop assistant available when you’re shopping, although this is a service that Costco also offers.
Does Costco Have Motorized Shopping Carts?
Costco not only provides wheelchairs but also has motorized shopping carts for those that require a mobility device to help them get around the store. In addition, motorized scooters at Costco have an adjustable seat, removable shoulder pads, and a rechargeable battery pack.
The motorized shopping cart also comes with a joystick controller, which can be used to control the speed and the direction of the motorized shopping cart.
How To Use Costco’s Motorized Shopping Carts?
Costco’s motorized carts are located as you enter the store and are relatively easy to use. If you aren’t sure how to use them, these simple guidelines will help.
- Choose a cart. Choose a motorized shopping cart and then climb onto it. Once you are comfortable, look for the green or red button on the side of the cart. Gently push the button. You should hear the cart start up.
- Start moving. To move forward, use the steering wheel/joystick and push it to start moving forward. To move backward, pull the other side of the joystick/steering wheel.
- Moving around the store. Use the joystick/steering wheel to help you move down the aisles and to change direction. When you want to stop the shopping cart, release the throttle, and the cart will come to a standstill.
Can You Use A Wheelchair At Costco For Free?
Wheelchairs at Costco are available to any shopper, whether you’re a Costco member or not. Wheelchairs and motorized shopping carts are free to use, and no booking is required beforehand to use a wheelchair or motorized shopping cart.
In some instances, the wheelchairs are not properly maintained, and the motorized shopping carts have not been charged. To ensure that these are available at your nearest Costco and are in good working condition, it’s best to call your local store and check before visiting.
Are There Other Stores That Have Wheelchairs For Shoppers?
There are a few stores that offer wheelchairs and motorized shopping carts for shoppers. However, it’s best to enquire before visiting the store as some stores may not have wheelchairs or motorized shopping carts.
Stores that offer wheelchairs or motorized shopping carts include:
- Home Depot
- BJ’s
- Sam’s Club
- Ralphs
- Meijer
- Whole Foods
- Kroger
- Walmart
- ShopRite
- Vons
- Trader Joe’s
- Lowe’s
Does Costco Offer Assistance To Shoppers In Wheelchairs?
Costco employees are available to offer assistance to shoppers in wheelchairs. They can assist with helping you shop, find products for you, and can assist by pushing you around the store as well. Costco employees are also able to assist during checkout.
If you need assistance while shopping at Costco, it’s best to call ahead and let them know you’ll need someone to help you shop so they can arrange for an employee to assist you.
What Kind Of Wheelchair Accessibility Does Costco Offer?
Costco has put a lot of initiative into making its stores more accessible for disabled individuals. Many Costco stores have good wheelchair access, designated parking spaces for disabled persons, and broader aisles to help wheelchair users easily navigate through the store.
There are also wheelchair-friendly restrooms and elevators in some Costco stores. Elevators can be used by those who have difficulty with stairs or need assistance getting from one floor to the next.
Are Retailers Like Costco Required To Have Wheelchairs By Law?
According to ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act), businesses are not required to provide mobility devices like wheelchairs or other prescribed devices for customers with disabilities.
Some businesses may choose to do so to attract customers and as part of their values system and company policy. Many larger retailers provide this and assisted shopping services for those with disabilities.
The requirement for wheelchairs in retail stores will differ in each country, so you should check your local stores to see which offer wheelchairs for customers to use.
In places like Australia, many initiatives promote inclusivity, and many of their stores have wheelchairs for shoppers. Bus routes, changing rooms, and other services are also set up to make it easier for wheelchair users to get around. Many other countries have also adapted their stores to accommodate people with disabilities.
Conclusion
Costco has wheelchairs and motorized shopping carts for shoppers to use in-store. Most Costco stores also have a range of features to make wheelchair users and those with difficulty with mobility feel more comfortable shopping and help them navigate the aisles. Costco employees also offer assistance to those who are in wheelchairs as part of their company policy.