Clark Howard

Just announced: 3 big changes coming to Sam's Club in 2018

After abruptly closing 63 locations nationwide, Sam's Club is moving forward with some big changes that will affect members.

The Walmart-owned warehouse club said in a news release that it's committed to providing "irresistible value, amazing items, real convenience and simple choices" to its customers.

Read on to learn how Sam’s Club is changing in 2018 to take on rivals Costco and Amazon…

RELATED: Sam’s Club is abruptly closing locations nationwide

Here’s what members need to know about the “new” Sam’s Club

1. Free shipping for Plus members 

Effective immediately, anyone with a Sam’s Plus membership will receive free shipping on most items sold online, including nearly every Member’s Mark item — and there’s no minimum purchase.

Plus members will continue to receive other benefits like cash rewards, early shopping hours, and pharmacy and optical discounts.

2. Simplified membership structure 

Sam’s Club is also reducing the number of membership types to two levels: Club for $45 a year and Plus for $100. The cost for additional Club memberships (formerly Sam’s Savings) has been lowered to $40.

Not a member? Sam's Club regularly offers special sign-up deals, like a $10 gift card for new members. Get the details here.

3. Faster and easier shopping experience

Finally, Sam’s Club says it’s making the shopping experience “faster and easier” both in-club and online. Scan & Go and Club Pickup are already popular with members, but the retailer promised more time-saving options are coming soon.

Details are few, but the company said it’s focused on creating “the quickest and most convenient shopping experience.”

RELATED: How to request a refund for your Sam’s Club membership