• Hammacher Schlemmer

Hammacher Schlemmer

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Overview

Hammacher Schlemmer has a rating of 1.52 stars from 128 reviews, indicating that most customers are generally dissatisfied with their purchases. Reviewers complaining about Hammacher Schlemmer most frequently mention customer service, christmas tree, and lifetime guarantee problems. Hammacher Schlemmer ranks 672nd among Marketplace sites.

  • Service
    58
  • Value
    51
  • Shipping
    53
  • Returns
    47
  • Quality
    47
Positive reviews (last 12 months): 7.7%
Positive
2
Neutral
0
Negative
24
13
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What reviewers want you to know

Positive highlights

No positive highlights yet

Critical highlights

  • I have to say I am utterly disappointed with the customer service provided by Hammacher Schlemmer.
How would you rate Hammacher Schlemmer?
Top Positive Review

“Excellent Customer care from Customer Care ASHEBA!”

Debra W.
11/18/23

ASHEBA provided excellent customer care when I called in for help with a defected part of a Chirstmas decoration i purchased. Asheba went above and beyond in taking care of my concerns and resolved my issue in a timely matter. Nowadays this sort of Customer care is very hard to find anymore so, I wanted to take the time to share a positive review for Ashesba's exceptional customer care she provided to me. Thank you Asheba!

Top Critical Review

“$300 Digital Outdoor Christmas Tree Defective”

John F.
12/12/23

The Christmas Tree - outdoor with digital LEDs that provide multi-color and pattern displays - was listed in Hammacher Schlemmer's latest catalog. I ordered it and it arrived in a large box. The items inside were loose and not properly packed. The instructions were basically useless, and led to hours of trial and error to get it up properly. The design for this $300 high end tree was lacking and made assembly a challenge. Once lit, I had to admit it performed as expected. But that lasted for about 10 minutes when I noticed that several strings of lights started to short out on their own. I tried to unplug the tree to restart the lights but to no avail. Only 3 strands of the strings of LEDs change color, the rest are constantly white. I called Hammacher Schlemmer and decided to send the tree back a get a refund. Inconvenient doesn't begin to describe my disappointment. H-S has begun to go downhill. I've had several recent purchases that have not met expectations. I will never purchase another item from H-S and asked to make sure I no longer receive their catalogs.

Reviews (128)

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Reviews that mention popular keywords

customer service (46)
Thumbnail of user alexs2476
1 review
0 helpful votes
February 17th, 2024

They automatically sign you up for a rewards program when purchasing online. Not only did my product never arrive they have charged me $45 over the last 3 months for their reward program. Beware, there was a class action lawsuit that they paid $475,000 to settle in 2022. Looks like they are back at it.

Tip for consumers:
They are a scam

Products used:
Product never arrived and I'm just stuck paying for the rewards program

Service
Value
Shipping
Returns
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Thumbnail of user johnf5632
1 review
1 helpful vote
December 12th, 2023

The Christmas Tree - outdoor with digital LEDs that provide multi-color and pattern displays - was listed in Hammacher Schlemmer's latest catalog. I ordered it and it arrived in a large box. The items inside were loose and not properly packed. The instructions were basically useless, and led to hours of trial and error to get it up properly. The design for this $300 high end tree was lacking and made assembly a challenge. Once lit, I had to admit it performed as expected. But that lasted for about 10 minutes when I noticed that several strings of lights started to short out on their own. I tried to unplug the tree to restart the lights but to no avail. Only 3 strands of the strings of LEDs change color, the rest are constantly white. I called Hammacher Schlemmer and decided to send the tree back a get a refund. Inconvenient doesn't begin to describe my disappointment. H-S has begun to go downhill. I've had several recent purchases that have not met expectations. I will never purchase another item from H-S and asked to make sure I no longer receive their catalogs.

Products used:
No

Service
Value
Shipping
Returns
Quality
Thumbnail of user gwens152
2 reviews
6 helpful votes
May 20th, 2021

I received my Portable DVD player today and put a new DVD in and it played for about 45 minutes and then stopped and just made a lot of scrubbing noise! I will be contacting the company tomorrow! A bit disappointed that it did not work as expected, but I am going to what they are going to do about it. This player total cost with tax and shipping was over $200.00! The item is very nice though if it would work!

Tip for consumers:
Make sure an item has a model and serial number before purchasing items online!

Products used:
Portable DVD Player

Service
Value
Shipping
Quality
Thumbnail of user docmturk1810
1 review
1 helpful vote
December 6th, 2023

Several years ago we purchased a 50' stainless steel hose that started leaking at one end. I returned the failed hose in early July 2023 expecting to get a replacement. Since then I have called customer service at least a dozen times without success at getting a replacement or refund. I am resigned to the fact that a replacement or refund will not occur. I am done making any future purchases from this company and would advise others to not do so. They are a big scam! Arrrrggghhh

Thumbnail of user sandyt167
3 reviews
3 helpful votes
May 22nd, 2021

I was having issues but finally did receive the positive outcome to help with my concern! Thank you in advance for a reasonable solution

Service
Value
Shipping
Returns
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Thumbnail of user danielb106
58 reviews
206 helpful votes
August 13th, 2017

A $17 shipping charge on an $80 a product that came in its own shipping package is ridiculous! But the item is guaranteed forever. I've used their return policy and they do support their warranty.

Thumbnail of user mrswhittle362
1 review
0 helpful votes
December 3rd, 2023

2x in different years ordered same product both times received a used different product. Forget speaking to supervisors too. My cell records every phone call made or received. Each person i spoke to lied directly to me. I better get my refund.

Products used:
15ft yeti blow up christmas decoration was ordered received a used 15ft christmas tree blow up

Service
Value
Shipping
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Thumbnail of user michaeln1865
2 reviews
0 helpful votes
January 29th, 2024

In early December, I ordered an item from Hammacher Schemmer for my wife for a Christmas present. I paid $17.95 for 5 to 7 days shipping. A few days before Christmas I called Hammacher to find out the status of my order. It was then I was told that the item was on back order and it would not be shipped until mid January. After numerous emails, it was decided by Hammacher Schemmer to refund their shipping fees. But that refund never came. But Hammacher Schemmer did send me an email inviting me to review the item I bought. Oh,….i did. I put them on blast. I got another email saying that they were going refund my shipping and it was "processing". It's now the end of the month and it's still processing. AND they deleted my review.

Service
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Thumbnail of user davidr6914
1 review
0 helpful votes
February 11th, 2024

I was on hold with their return department for over 20 minutes. I had called two days in a row.
Finally got into a loop where you left your name and # for a call back. Never received a response.

Tip for consumers:
I hope I get a response. Website says they are open 8 -8 . I called at 6 and they said they were closed.

Products used:
This was a gift I received from my girlfriend. It is a Turkish robe that does not fit …

Service
Value
Shipping
Returns
Quality
Thumbnail of user debraw1694
1 review
0 helpful votes
November 18th, 2023

ASHEBA provided excellent customer care when I called in for help with a defected part of a Chirstmas decoration i purchased. Asheba went above and beyond in taking care of my concerns and resolved my issue in a timely matter. Nowadays this sort of Customer care is very hard to find anymore so, I wanted to take the time to share a positive review for Ashesba's exceptional customer care she provided to me.
Thank you Asheba!

Thumbnail of user douglasm1265
1 review
0 helpful votes
December 4th, 2023

I ordered a portable TV which was not available to be shipped for one month. Upon arrival, it did not work at all. My understanding is that I am going to be charged shipping and processing fees. Also, they don't have tech support unless you email and then you are told that it will be 2 to 3 days before someone can contact you. Finally, I learned that I can buy the same item for $60 less, but they don't tell you the brand until you receive it.

Products used:
None

Service
Value
Shipping
Returns
Quality
Thumbnail of user dianeoyler1
1 review
2 helpful votes
December 20th, 2023

I placed an order on 11/20/23. One month later, after three emails and one phone call, I have received nothing. I was assured it would have expedited delivery but is still showing as in process. The only good thing is that my bank was never charged. Definitely will never be ordering from them again.

Thumbnail of user jenniferc4800
1 review
1 helpful vote
December 21st, 2023

Placed order 2 weeks ago and they promised it would be delivered within 5 days.
Nope. Still waiting 2 weeks later.
Do not order from this company. They ship through UPS then UPS innovations. So tried to cancel and they said they couldn't since it was already shipped from warehouse. Called my credit card and got charge removed.

Tip for consumers:
I will never order from this company again.

Products used:
Never received!

Service
Value
Shipping
Returns
Quality
Thumbnail of user mikeb3479
1 review
3 helpful votes
October 27th, 2023

Everything they sell for high prices is worthless Chinese-made junk. Also, they refuse to stop sending me their catalogs.

Products used:
1. I bought "Automatic Flameless Candles" for $40 and later saw the exact same brand (product of China) at Walmart for $15.

2. Their so-called "non-shrinking" Cashmere sweatshirt, shrinks terribly.

3. Their made in China $40 flashlight is identical to cheaper flashlights you see at Walmart, and of course after a few months it quit working.

Do not waste your money on this company and their high-priced worthless Chinese junk.

Value
Shipping
Quality
Thumbnail of user janiceb1247
1 review
2 helpful votes
July 18th, 2023

I purchased their Best Ideal Temperature Dry Eye Relief Mask, price $113.52. Received it the end of April; it stopped working by early July, i.e., it work for about 2 1/2 months. They agreed that the was defective but the refund deducted $14 for handling and the total shipping. This is really unacceptable for an item that should work for years, costs over $100, yet only worked for a couple of months.

Tip for consumers:
Beware, this is their policy: defective products; gouge customers on returns

Products used:
"premium" dry eye mask

Service
Thumbnail of user marya4268
1 review
0 helpful votes
December 4th, 2023

I thought that HS was a nice higher-end company. However, I called in to place an order (Dec 4 - when I received the catalog). It sounded like a big loud party in the background. The person couldn't/didn't take any of my information down correctly (including my email & address) even after asking me several times. I was told the order would be delivered in 5-8 days. Because I felt so uncertain I called back and was told most of the information on my order was wrong and that it would take until after Christmas to get the order. I canceled and won't be ordering from them again. I hope they fix their systems & processes.

Service
Value
Shipping
Returns
Thumbnail of user billys565
1 review
2 helpful votes
October 20th, 2023

Purchased a white noise sleep sound machine and couldn't hear anything! Defected product! Plus have to pay reshelfing fee and no free shipping back

Products used:
A cheap box fan

Service
Value
Shipping
Returns
Quality
Thumbnail of user sherryem6
1 review
0 helpful votes
January 29th, 2024

I have to say I am utterly disappointed with the customer service provided by Hammacher Schlemmer. I placed an order in December with an assurance before ordering that my items would arrive by Christmas. Well, needless to say one item arrived and one didn't. The one that did arrive did not work properly and I had to return it. The other item took so long I cancelled it.

When I contacted customer service regarding the cancellation, the service provided by the representative was less than desirable. Then after reviewing my banking info, I realized the rewards I earned were debited back almost immediately. In the mean time, I returned the defective item and am still awaiting my refund. When speaking with the customer service representative, I admit I was clearly upset as I thought I was charged for both items. After reviewing an email with the order, I realized I had not, but still had several questions, which the representative refused to answer. Instead she insisted on placing me on hold. I asked for a supervisor. She neither acknowledged my request for a supervisor nor answered my questions. She placed me on hold! Had she given me an opportunity to ask my questions, she would have learned, that I now see I was only charged for the one item and was curious about reimbursement of the fees associated with gift wrap, shipping, and taxes. I have enjoyed shopping with the company for years, but I have to say this gives me pause when considering future shopping.

Thumbnail of user kaym532
2 reviews
1 helpful vote
December 13th, 2023

I bought a very expensive Christmas Tree from HS. The quality is mediocre. A little while after spending almost $1,000, it went on sale for 30% off. I received the sale email from HS. After hours on the phone, I was told the $300 difference would be credited back to my card. After many more calls, I was told they would not refund any money. The best they would do was send me a 15% off code for my next purchase. I wasted hours on the phone with them. THEIR CUSTOMER SERVICE PROMISES ARE NON-EXISTENT. I WILL NEVER PURCHASE ANYTHING FROM THIS COMPANY AGAIN.

Tip for consumers:
I thought they were a reputable company, I learned they are not.

Products used:
Have Christmas tree; not sure if I will use it.

Service
Value
Shipping
Quality
Thumbnail of user ceciliat81
1 review
6 helpful votes
November 11th, 2022
Verified purchase

The "Gingerbread Man Mini Waffle Maker" says "recipes included" but has NO gingerbread recipes and they'll charge me $10.95 to return it! I bought it exactly one month ago. Spoke to a customer service rep about returning it and she confirmed they would deduct $10.95 from my credit and I must pay my own postage. Totally misleading ripoff and disappointing from what I thought was a reputable company.

Tip for consumers:
Should check reviews before purchasing anything!

Products used:
Didn't use what I purchased -- "Gingerbread Man Mini Waffle Maker" -- due to misleading description. When I called about returning it the customer service rep confirmed what was on the website, that they would deduct $10.95 from my credit on top of making me pay my own return postage.

Value
Shipping
Returns
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Thumbnail of user mirandal132
1 review
5 helpful votes
February 13th, 2023

The subscription cost and automatic sign up is underhanded and deceptive and the auto billing is appalling. This company delivered 1 of 3 products purchased and then steal from customers by sliding in the subscription. I do believe this is the worst company I have ever done business with online. Their illegal cramming techniques should be stopped. The lack of transparency, integrity and honesty ensures they have zero chance of a return customer.

Tip for consumers:
Don’t buy anything or give them your credit card information!!!!!

Products used:
Seat cushion

Thumbnail of user bonniegoss58
1 review
2 helpful votes
December 11th, 2023

Purchased an $800 tree. It stopped working. Customer service sent me to the tech team. After multiple calls and email requests I have still not heard from anyone.

Products used:
Tree and snowman

Service
Value
Shipping
Returns
Quality
Thumbnail of user dinac221
1 review
2 helpful votes
September 5th, 2023

Bought an ottoman with table, and table came cracked and scratched. Called about replacement. Was told to send whole package back. Well couldn't find a box big enough to return it, because box was left out in the rain and was soaked. Didn't get much off just delivery fee. Really disappointed with service. Definitely not ordering off here again.

Products used:
Ottoman were good. It was table that was bad.

Service
Value
Shipping
Quality
Thumbnail of user jimd875
1 review
18 helpful votes
March 22nd, 2021

I bought a product from them in Feb. 2021. The leg rejuvenator. It turned out to be a piece of junk. I sent it back with their return label. They received the item on March 2. I did not get my refund yet. They said it would be at least another week or two. This is terrible that customers should be waiting so long for a refund, if I get one at all. In April I'm going to call my AMEX and place a dispute. I will not be buying from them again.

Service
Value
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Thumbnail of user gailb889
1 review
3 helpful votes
December 31st, 2022
Verified purchase

The Hammacher Schlemmer website has reviews touting how wonderful this tree is. Ours was not made correctly; the light strands are too long on one side so they hang loosely. I have heard others finding this same problem also. The lights work randomly and when you turn the tree off with the remote, some strands stay on unless you unplug it (see photo with two strands lit during the day, the tree is "off". I am extremely disappointed with it, especially for the price.

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