For contact lens wearers, the convenience of picking up your new prescription while doing your regular shopping at Costco can feel like a major win for multitasking. With Great Hills Eye Care locations conveniently attached to a Costco, it’s easier than ever to stop by while picking up your lens supply. But how long does it actually take to get contacts from Costco?
On average, it can take 5–7 business days for your contact lenses to arrive after placing an order; however, the process involves multiple steps that can influence your overall wait time.
Factors That Can Affect Wait Times
Getting your lenses involves a few steps that could cause delays along the way. Timing often depends on how long you’ve been wearing contacts for and whether your prescription needs an update. This means having the time from your first contact lens fitting to getting your lenses in your hand may be longer than simply reordering your usual brand.
Here’s a general look at the process that can affect how long it takes to get contacts:
Eye Exam
The first step to getting contacts at Costco (or anywhere, for that matter) is an up-to-date prescription. Scheduling your eye exam depends on:
- Optometrist availability: Depending on the clinic’s schedule, you may have to book a few days in advance.
- Time of day and week: Peak hours like evenings or weekends may limit last-minute bookings, so planning ahead is key.
Contact Lens Fitting
Once your vision has been checked, a contact lens fitting helps your lenses feel comfortable and work properly for your eyes:
- Complexity of the fitting: If you need specialty lenses (e.g., for astigmatism or multifocal lenses), this step could take longer.
- Availability of trial lenses: Some optometrists may need to order trial lenses to finalize your fit, which can add a few extra days.
Insurance Verification
Before ordering, your insurance details need to be processed and verified:
- Provider processing times: Some insurance providers handle verifications almost instantly, while others may take a few days.
- Coverage details: Confirm which costs your insurance will cover to avoid surprises.
Ordering & Shipping
Finally, once all the details are sorted, your contacts can be ordered:
- Lens availability: If your specific prescription is in stock, shipping will proceed faster, but out-of-stock lenses could add a small delay.
- Shipping time to Costco: Orders typically arrive within 5–7 business days, but Costco’s shipping partners may vary by location and season.
While this can seem complicated, optometrists have streamlined this process, and it often goes very quickly.
Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Contacts at Costco
Getting contacts doesn’t have to be complicated, and Costco offers a straightforward process. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Step 1. Schedule an Eye Exam
Start by booking an eye exam with the optometrist located at (or near) your local Costco. During the exam, the doctor will evaluate your vision, check for any eye health concerns, and determine your contact lens prescription.
If you have an optometrist that’s close to a Costco, then you’re a step ahead!
Step 2. Contact Lens Fitting
After your exam, you’ll need a lens fitting so your contacts meet your vision and lifestyle needs. The optometrist will:
- Discuss your routine (e.g., wearing lenses daily or occasionally) to recommend suitable lens types.
- Provide trial lenses if necessary to check comfort and fit.
- Make adjustments based on your feedback before finalizing your prescription.
Step 3. Ordering Your Contacts
With an updated prescription, you’re ready to order your contacts:
- In-store: Simply place your order at the optical counter inside Costco. Their trained staff will walk you through the process.
- Online: Prefer the convenience of ordering from home? Costco’s website allows members to reorder lenses online once a prescription is on file.
Step 4. Receiving Your Contacts
You’ll be notified when your lenses are ready:
- Notification methods: Costco typically notifies customers via call, text, or email when their order arrives.
- Pick-up process: Head to the optical counter to grab your new lenses and finish any final payments.
Tips for a Smooth Experience
You can make the process even easier with these simple tips:
- Schedule in advance: Booking your eye exam earlier helps you avoid waitlists, especially during busier times like weekends or back-to-school season.
- Have insurance information ready: This helps streamline verifications at the payment stage.
- Be prepared for the fitting: Don’t wear your current contacts to your fitting. You can bring your contacts if you wish, or bring your glasses so that your optometrist can compare how your vision has changed.
- Understand the ordering process: Know whether you’ll order in-store or online ahead of time to save yourself any hassle.
The Benefit of Optometrist Offices at Costco
One of the best parts about Costco? Many locations have optometrist offices conveniently attached, making it a breeze to book an eye exam, get fitted for contacts, and order everything in the same visit.
At all of our locations, we offer an all-in-one service that saves you time and provides a seamless experience from start to finish. It’s just one more way we make eye care accessible and convenient for busy shoppers.
Elevate Your Vision Today
Getting contacts should feel simple, quick, and hassle-free, and with Great Hills Eye Care, it absolutely can be. Whether you’re running errands or stocking up on your favorite bulk items, you can trust our optical services to deliver the care you expect with Costco right next door.
Looking to get started? Schedule an eye exam today, and take the first step toward clear, comfortable vision. Your new contacts are closer than you think!
