I’m sure a lot of us have been there. We’re at a crowded Costco gas station. Each of us drivers vies for a pump based on which side our fuel tank is on. With the beehive of other vehicles to contend with, we pick what we feel is the best position. And sit. And wait.

Now, I’ll start by saying this: Many Costco shoppers already know this tip. But, apparently, there are enough drivers getting in line that, well…just don’t read the posted signage.

In any case, a friendly TikToker and coloring book designer named Marissa, who posts under the handle @creativecurvygirl, reminds drivers that we don’t actually have to stick to any particular pump at Costco.

It doesn’t matter which side your car’s fuel tank is on when you pull up to a Costco gas station

In her video, she explains that you can just go to any available pump. Regardless of which side of your car the fuel tank is on.

See, at Costco, the fuel filler hoses are extra long for exactly this purpose.

Most gas stations have hoses that only reach vehicles with the fuel door on the “correct” side

That forces people to wait for specific pumps or awkwardly circle the lot. Costco’s longer hoses solve that problem. They’re designed to swing over or around your car without stretching or damaging anything. 

According to Costco’s own FAQs, the hoses are specifically designed this way to reduce wait times and make fueling more convenient. It’s part of their strategy to keep prices low and service fast.

It also helps Costco get more cars through in less time. That matters because their stations are often packed. More efficient fueling means happier members and smoother flow. And since the stations are usually one-way in and out, flexibility at the pump keeps things from backing up.

So, next time you pull up to a Costco station, just join the shortest line, stretch the hose to the opposite side of the car if you need to, and keep it moving.

MotorBiscuit reached out to @creativecurvygirl via TikTok direct message for comment.