Costco Business Centers are distinct from regular Costco warehouses: they cater primarily to businesses with bulk-only inventory such as office supplies, restaurant essentials, janitorial products, and more. These Centers typically offer early hours, fewer crowds, and access to commercial-grade goods not available in standard locations. However, currently, there is no Costco Business Center in Austin—the nearest Business Center is in Stafford, TX. Meanwhile, the location on Research Blvd is a full-service Costco warehouse. Below is an expert overview of that store and how it compares to Business Centers.
Facility Details: Costco Warehouse — 10401 Research Blvd, Austin, TX
| Category | Details |
| Store Type | Regular Costco Warehouse (not Business Center) |
| Address | 10401 Research Blvd, Austin, TX 78759-5712 |
| Phone Number | (512) 634-2253 |
| Not publicly listed (use Costco website contact forms) | |
| Official Website | https://www.costco.com (specific warehouse page listing this location) |
| Opening Date | August 30, 2001 |
| Operating Hours | • Executive Members: Mon–Fri 9:00 AM–8:30 PM; Sat 9:00 AM–7:00 PM; Sun 9:00 AM–6:00 PM • Gold Star & Business Members: Mon–Fri 10:00 AM–8:30 PM; Sat 9:30 AM–7:00 PM; Sun 10:00 AM–6:00 PM |
| On-site Services | Food Court, Gas Station, Tire Service Center, Pharmacy, Optical, Hearing Aids, Independent Optometrist, Service Deli, Bakery, ATM, Photo, Travel, Membership Services, Special Order Kiosk, T-Mobile Kiosk, Auto Buying Program, Fresh Produce, Wheelchair Access |
| Gas Station Hours | Mon–Fri 6 AM–10 PM; Sat 6 AM–8:30 PM; Sun 6 AM–7:30 PM |
| Additional On-Site Amenities | Wheelchair accessible, parking, restrooms, air conditioning, accepts credit cards |
| Nearest Public Transit | Bus routes 3, 383, 982 stop nearby; closest stops: – “10050 Great Hills/Research” ~8-min walk – “9829 Great Hills/Jollyville” ~9-min walk Also, bus route 383 has “Research/McNeil” ~3-min walk (164 yds) |
Google Maps Location
Pros & Cons (Based on Reviews & Context)
Pros
- Comprehensive offerings: Extensive services including fuel, pharmacy, optical, food court, tires, and more.
- Convenience for daily and bulk shoppers: Easy access to both grocery items and specialized services.
- Strong transit accessibility: Multiple bus routes nearby improve reach for non-drivers.
- Reliable reputation: Yelp reviews praise the food court:
“The Costco food court is truly one of the best hidden gems!… The pizza is huge, cheesy, and consistently…”
Cons
- Not a Business Center: Does not carry the specialized inventory of Business Centers (like catering-only bulk supplies or janitorial/office disposables). Potentially less efficient for commercial buyers seeking those categories.
- Transit walk: Nearest bus stops still require an 8–9 minute walk, and no rail station nearby.
- No listed email/contact form specific to the warehouse: Only phone is available for inquiries.
Key Takeaways
While the Austin location at Research Blvd is a full-featured Costco warehouse, it does not serve as or replace a Costco Business Center. Those looking specifically for business-grade inventory must travel to the nearest Business Center (e.g., Stafford, TX), or use the Costco Business Delivery services online: phone contact at 1-800-788-9968 and live chat (Mon–Fri, 6 AM–5 PM PST)
