Does Costco sell ice? Are you planning your next big gathering or barbecue and find yourself wondering where on earth you’re going to find enough ice to keep everything chilled? You’re not alone.
As a go-to destination for buying in bulk, Costco has become a household name for stocking up on just about everything. But when it comes to finding bags of ice for your event, you might wonder if this wholesale giant can meet your needs.
Well, the quick answer is yes, Costco does sell ice, depending on which Costco location you walk into. In this article, we will be taking a closer look at this, helping you see what types of ice you can get at Costco and how much you are likely to get it. So, does Costco sell ice? Let’s go find out!
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Does Costco Sell Ice?
Yes, for those wondering whether their next party or barbecue’s cooling needs can be met with a trip to Costco, the answer is a refreshing yes.
Many Costco warehouses across the country do stock ice, making it a convenient pit stop for event planners and party throwers alike. When it comes to pricing, Costco remains competitive, offering approximately 20-pound bags of ice for around $3.09.
That’s a price point that’s hard to beat, especially when compared to the cost of smaller quantities at local convenience stores.
However, you should know that the availability of ice can vary from one Costco location to another. While many warehouses are stocked with these large, budget-friendly bags, it’s always a good idea to check with your local Costco to ensure they have ice on hand before you plan your shopping trip.
Do All Costco Locations Sell Ice?
Now that you have an answer to the question, ‘Does Costco sell ice?’ the next question that will likely be on your mind is if you can get it at all Costco warehouses.
Well, while a good number of Costco warehouses across the nation do stock ice, it’s not a universal offering at every location. The presence of ice in specific Costco stores often depends on the demand within the area.
In rural or less densely populated regions, the demand for ice may not be strong enough to warrant its regular stocking. This contrasts with urban areas or locations near beaches, where the demand for ice typically spikes, driven by city dwellers and beachgoers looking to keep their beverages and snacks chilled during outings.
To avoid any disappointment or unnecessary trips, it’s a wise move to contact your local Costco before heading out with the intention of buying ice.
A quick phone call can confirm whether ice is available at your particular Costco, ensuring that your cooling needs for any gathering or outdoor adventure are well taken care of without hassle.
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How Much Is Costco Ice Compared to the Competition?
Costco’s reputation for value extends into the realm of ice, where it significantly undercuts the competition with its pricing.
The affordability of Costco’s ice, particularly for those who find themselves frequently purchasing bags for parties, events, or business needs, is so compelling that it could almost justify the cost of a Costco membership on its own.
Typically, a 20-pound bag of ice at Costco is priced over two dollars less than what you might find at other retailers or gas stations, marking a substantial saving for bulk buyers.
To help you get this straight, let’s compare the cost of a 20-pound bag of ice across various retailers and gas stations:
| Store | Price per 20-pound bag |
| The Ice Factory | $5.20 |
| Seven-Eleven | $5.00 |
| Target | $4.38 |
| BP Gas Station | $4.00 |
| Exxon Gas Station | $3.99 |
| BJ’s Wholesale | $3.49 |
| Walmart | $3.38 |
| Sam’s Club | $3.28 |
| Costco | $2.49 |
Does Costco Sell Dry Ice?
While regular ice is a staple at many Costco warehouses, dry ice is a different story, available only at select locations. The demand for dry ice is generally lower than for regular ice, leading to its limited availability.
However, Costco stores situated in regions with a high concentration of shipping or industrial activities may stock dry ice to cater to those specific needs.
If your event or gathering requires dry ice, you might need to reach out to your local Costco in advance to verify its availability.
Does Costco Sell Crushed Ice?
Although Costco is known for offering a wide range of items at competitive prices, when it comes to ice, it offers only cubed ice. Across most of its warehouses nationwide, shoppers can find 20-pound bags of cubed ice.
So, if you are looking for crushed ice for your beverages or other uses, you will need to explore alternatives beyond Costco. This limitation to cubed ice only means that while Costco can be your go-to for bulk ice purchases at competitive prices, you’ll need to seek other vendors for crushed ice.
Where Can I Find the Ice in Costco?
Finding ice at Costco is a bit different from locating other frozen items. Instead of browsing through a designated aisle within the frozen department, you’ll actually find ice at the front of the store.
The process is straightforward: simply inform the cashier of the number of bags you wish to purchase during checkout, and they’ll add it to your bill.
Conveniently, you can then pick up your ice bags on your way out. Opting to buy your ice at Costco, as opposed to a convenience store or gas station, is a smart choice financially, offering significant savings for the same product.
Does Costco Sell Ice Online?
Currently, Costco does not offer ice for sale through its online platform, and the reason is quite straightforward: ice simply doesn’t ship well.
Because of its nature, ice melts quickly and would not survive the shipping process, making its delivery very impractical. That means, if you really need your ice, you will have to make a purchase in person at a local Costco warehouse.
Where Else Can I Buy Ice?
If you find yourself in a pinch and your nearby Costco doesn’t have ice, don’t fret – there are plenty of other venues where you can find what you need.
Grocery stores, gas stations, and convenience stores are usually reliable sources for ice, typically offering it in various sizes, from individual bags to larger trays suited for any occasion. These alternatives are convenient and widely available, making it easy to pick up ice when you’re on the go.
In more urgent situations, or perhaps when other options seem exhausted, fast-food restaurants like McDonald’s can be surprisingly helpful. Many fast-food establishments keep a stock of ice for their own needs but are also willing to sell eight or ten-pound bags to customers.
Does Costco Sell Ice – Final Note
Without any doubt, you now know that you can get your ice at Costco – and for a competitive price for that matter. This iconic brand has not only been the go-to destination when looking to pick up groceries and electronics at cheap prices; you can also get your ice there.
We already told you the type of ice you can get at Costco and what determines if the warehouse in your area will have ice or not.
Still have some more questions in your mind concerning buying ice at Costco or any other place? Check the FAQ section below. You might be lucky to see your question answered there!
FAQs
How Big are Bags of Ice?
Bags of ice come in various sizes to cater to different needs. Here are some common sizes:
- Premium Packaged Ice – 5 lbs: ~10.5” x 4” x 19”
- Premium Packaged Ice – 7 lbs: ~11” x 4” x 21”
- Premium Packaged Ice – 16 lbs: ~14” x 5” x 28”
Can You Get Ice From the Grocery Store?
Yes, you can find ice at most grocery stores including Walmart, Kroger, Albertsons, and others. They usually offer bags ranging from 5 to 20 pounds, located near the store’s front or in an outdoor ice bunker.
How Long Will a Bag of Ice Last?
This actually depends on the conditions. A 3lb bag in a 73-75°F room melts in about 5-7 hours. In a Styrofoam cooler, ice can last 12 to 24 hours, while higher-quality coolers can keep ice frozen for up to four days.
How Much is a Bag of Ice at McDonald’s?
McDonald’s offers 8-pound bags of ice, priced between $0.99 and $1.50, depending on the region. This translates to about $0.12 to $0.19 per pound.
Is it Safe to Consume Bagged Ice?
Bagged ice can be safe, but the risk of contamination exists, especially if ice is scooped into generic bags. Contaminants like Salmonella, E. coli, and Hepatitis A can potentially cause illness. Always ensure you’re buying ice from reputable sources.
Can Ice Go Bad in the Freezer?
Ice itself doesn’t “go bad” in the traditional sense, but it can absorb odors from the freezer, affecting its taste. As long as the ice maker is clean, and the freezer is odor-free, ice should be safe to consume.
Why Does Bagged Ice Smell?
Odors in ice are usually due to unsealed food in the fridge or freezer, as they often share the same recirculated air. These smells can transfer to your ice, affecting its taste.
How Do You Make Ice Taste Better?
Improving ice taste involves:
- Using filtered or distilled water.
- Regularly cleaning the fridge or freezer.
- Using ice trays with lids.
- Keeping ice away from strong-smelling foods to prevent odor absorption.