• Harbor Freight Tools

Harbor Freight Tools

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Overview

Harbor Freight Tools has a rating of 1.42 stars from 289 reviews, indicating that most customers are generally dissatisfied with their purchases. Reviewers complaining about Harbor Freight Tools most frequently mention customer service, home depot, and credit card problems. Harbor Freight Tools ranks 107th among Industrial Equipment sites.

  • Service
    148
  • Value
    138
  • Shipping
    83
  • Returns
    108
  • Quality
    126
Positive reviews (last 12 months): 7.1%
Positive
7
Neutral
3
Negative
88
56
See all photos

What reviewers want you to know

Positive highlights

  • Of course you have your home depots and lowes, but I love Harbor Freight.

Critical highlights

  • Eight days later, I still have no items, nor any shipping updates, so I called customer service.
  • Go to home depot, lowes and you will have a sound mind no questions, that will be worth your time and money
How would you rate Harbor Freight Tools?
Top Positive Review

“Excellent service”

Frances R.
11/16/23

First thing, the Monmouth junction, NJ store the employees always great you like an old friend. Had some confusion over a coupon and the manager Mikki went over and above to get it resolved. Everyone is s helpful, kind and nice. All other retail establishments should emulate them. Insider track purchase pays itself over after a few visits; would definitely recommend this.

Top Critical Review

“Extended Warranty Return”

Robert D.
11/25/23

An absolute joke. They try and give you so much crap at filling out warranty stuff that you enter over and over and the format is very poor for a company like HF. I will never purchase anything that I need an extended warranty for from this place. Time is precious and you shouldn't have to deal with this. Look at the review rating. It should tell you something is wrong. Oh and it says thanks for being a loyal customer. Wow...

Reviews (289)

Rating

Timeframe

Other

Reviews that mention popular keywords

customer service (65) home depot (19) store manager (12) harbor freight (131) phone number (8)
Thumbnail of user robertd3686
2 reviews
1 helpful vote
November 25th, 2023

An absolute joke. They try and give you so much crap at filling out warranty stuff that you enter over and over and the format is very poor for a company like HF. I will never purchase anything that I need an extended warranty for from this place. Time is precious and you shouldn't have to deal with this. Look at the review rating. It should tell you something is wrong. Oh and it says thanks for being a loyal customer. Wow...

Tip for consumers:
Nope

Products used:
Sprayer Pump

Service
Value
Returns
Quality
Thumbnail of user patriciaw2884
1 review
1 helpful vote
January 19th, 2024

I wish I could give no stars. I purchased a circular saw for 47.00…regular priced 59.00. I used it one time and it stop working. I had only had it 1 month. I took it back to the store where the store manager, Ashley Wattley, who was aggressively rude, stated I had 5 days to figure it out and refused to refund me my money. My perception, this is robbery, you just going to take and keep my money for a non working tool.
I left the saw at the register counter, I can not do anything with it, it does not work. The manager picked it up and took it somewhere. Now I have to go through my bank to recover my loss. What kind of customer service is that?

Tip for consumers:
I have always had a pleasant experience but I never had a product issue. When I had a product issue I received the worst customer service ever.

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Value
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Thumbnail of user danhurley2011
2 reviews
4 helpful votes
March 21st, 2024

I bought a tool that advertised fitting my car. It didn't. I brought it right back and was denied a refund. I was told that their system tagged me as a Known Retail Theif. They say I go around returning items in various stores. Total lie. I use Amazon to avoid these kinds of businesses. But today I went into harbor freight and was instantly ripped off. They gave me a number to call. I called their complaints number and was treated like a criminal. The fact is, Harbor Freight sells garbage and when you try to return their garbage they call YOU a Thief.
I will Never wasl into that Sewer again.
Amazon is still the Safest way to shop

Products used:
None. They sold me just that will NOT work

Service
Value
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Quality
Thumbnail of user donk509
1 review
0 helpful votes
February 14th, 2024

I used this on my outboard and it measured 60-30 psi. So I borrowed a tester and it read 176-174 psi. So I would have had possibly scrapped motor due to bad compression. Good thing I tested again with a accurate tester. To make things worse Harbor Freight charged me 20% restock fee for their defective tools. 100 percent satisfaction guaranteed as long as you pay restock fee.

Tip for consumers:
20% restock fee on defective is ridiculous

Products used:
None

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Value
Shipping
Returns
Quality
Thumbnail of user davids11903
1 review
0 helpful votes
March 16th, 2024

Had a tool cart held for me to pick it up the next day and they sold out from under me won't shop there again…….

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Value
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Thumbnail of user steveb3281
1 review
1 helpful vote
December 9th, 2023

Brand new predator auger did not work, I try bringing it back to brick, New Jersey, Harbor freight store, they wanted to charge me restocking fee(39.99). How can you charge a restocking fee when the product does not work and it's under warranty. That is the last time I'm buying some from Harbor freight. It's a freaking scam. Their warranty actually is horrible.

Thumbnail of user connies1303
1 review
3 helpful votes
November 14th, 2023

My husband is 77 yrs old can't hear very well. Bought a paint sprayer $274.00 was charged $50.00 to return unopened. Never will we step foot inside the Tullahoma TN store. You can go on line and they tell you 20% for returns. Most elderly people aren't computer savvy. We don't need store's that pray on the elderly. Never! Never! Will we shop at any of there stores.

Products used:
Paint Sprayer unopened box.

Service
Returns
Thumbnail of user rayz194
1 review
0 helpful votes
February 2nd, 2024

I called the Westminster store in Colorado. I asked about a product, the young lady told me she would check and get right back to me. I waited for 35 minutes and then was hung up on. I call back and promptly disconnected.
It must be hard to have a business when customers are treated so badly.
Good luck in the future!

Products used:
none, I wasn't able to order anything!

Service
Value
Shipping
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Quality
Thumbnail of user bgc12420
1 review
0 helpful votes
March 6th, 2024

In a quest for an upgrade to my reliable Furman generator from Lowe's, I ventured into Harbor Freight, drawn by the promise of the Predator 2000. The appeal of a seemingly powerful and efficient generator blinded me to the potential pitfalls of straying from a tried and true brand. My experience, however, rapidly devolved from hopeful to disheartening, culminating in a staunch warning to others considering the same path.Initially, the Predator 2000 seemed to fulfill its promises. Upon bringing it home, it started up smoothly, and I meticulously followed the break-in process. It ran commendably through its first tank of gas, leading me to believe I had made a wise investment. Yet, this performance was a fleeting illusion. Beyond the first use, the generator faltered, refusing to start or even ignite, betraying the basic expectation of reliability.Compelled by this failure, I sought to return the product, hoping at least for a straightforward resolution. My disappointment was compounded when Harbor Freight imposed a $125 restocking fee, a financial penalty for the generator's inadequacy. This fee felt less like a policy and more like a punishment for trusting in their product's quality.The interaction laid bare a stark reality: the allure of lower prices and new products can mask the true cost of inferior quality and customer service. This ordeal with the Predator 2000 and Harbor Freight not only resulted in a loss of time and money but also in a profound sense of frustration and betrayal.I share this experience not out of spite, but as a cautionary tale for others who might be lured by the prospect of a "deal" at Harbor Freight. The true cost of their low prices can be unexpectedly high, factoring in the potential for product failures and punitive fees. As for me, I returned to Lowe's, to the reliability of brands that have stood the test of time and use, with a newfound appreciation for the value of trust in a product and the company behind it.I urge potential buyers to consider this experience and weigh the true cost of opting for products from Harbor Freight, particularly the Predator 2000. It's a reminder that sometimes, an "upgrade" can turn out to be anything but, leading to more hassle and expense than sticking with what is known to be good. Harbor Freight has lost a customer in me, and I hope my story can prevent others from enduring a similar disappointment.

Service
Value
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Thumbnail of user ronw992
1 review
1 helpful vote
January 16th, 2024

Be aware of the coupons and read the fine print of witch there is a lot of.
I recreantly went to Harbor Freight tools because the emailed me a coupon 30% off the entire store. I picked a few things out and when I get to the check out they say it is only for items $20 or less and you can only use it on one item. I left my cart and walked out! Then I thought I will call and complain 1-800 number. I asked to speak with a manager and this looser comes to the phone. I explained everything and ask if he thinks there advertising was deceptive and he said no he thought it was clear. I never will go back. They just lost a customer for life!

Thumbnail of user roldand
1 review
1 helpful vote
January 24th, 2024

I BOUGHT WATER PUMP AND 2HRS STOPPED WORKING, TRY TO CHANGE, THEY REFUSED, SEND TO HFTPUMPRTN.COM,THIS PAGE DON'T OPEN, WHEN I BOUGHT THE RACISM MEXICAN LADY CHARGED FOR WARRANTY AND TELL ME, ANY PROBLEM COME TO HERE AND E CHANGE, TODAY MANAGER ANOTHER MEXICAN REFUSED RETURN. ******* HWY 290.JERSEY VILLAGE, TX.*******. DON'T BUY IN HERE MEXICAN WORKERS COOPERATE TO STOLEN OUR MONEY, VERY RUDE AND IRRESPECTIVE WITH COSTUMERS., IN THE SAME TIME ANOTHER PERSON TRY TO USED WARRANTY AND THEY ARE BROKE HIS CIVIL RIGHT. NEVER, NEVER BUY TRASH TOOLS OR ANYTHING IN THIS STORE. CHECK ALL REVIEWS AND SEE IS A TRASH STORE.

Tip for consumers:
TRASH STORE, STOLEN OUR MONEY, IRRESPECTIVE THE COSTUMER, LAYING ENGANAN AL CLIENTE PARA ROBAR.

Products used:
Water pump

Service
Value
Shipping
Quality
Thumbnail of user luisc1096
1 review
0 helpful votes
December 17th, 2023

So last night I purchased the Chicago electric Flex 125amp welder.Today I go to use it and I'm getting 0 arc.Its feeds but absolutely no charge.I tried different thickness of metals and different outlets around my house and still nothing.So right away I go to return it and by "Right away"i mean the day after I bought it and im told at the store that because I didn't buy their warranty I'll be charged a 20% "restocking fee".So even tho the welder didn't work right out the box I was still charged the $21 restocking fee.I didn't make a scene because that's just not my style,but believe me i was seriously pissed off.So my advise to anyone buying any complex item like a welder or a generator or any electric tool,its in your best interest to buy the extended warranty.This is honestly in my opinion just bad business.So home Depot here I come...

Tip for consumers:
I have been a long time customer of harbor freight because of their excellent customer service and decent quality products. You have lost a loyal customer. Manager was very friendly and helpful, but unfortunately she has to follow the ridiculous company policies.

Thumbnail of user loryh17
1 review
0 helpful votes
December 13th, 2023

I found myself in need of a new 2 in 1 handtruck for our warehouse. I hopped onto Harbor freight's website. Assuming I could save some time buying online. Well, here was my first mistake. The order arrived on time. However, upon further inspection, the two large wheels necessary to operate the item had been removed at some point prior to shipping and never replaced. I called Harbor freight assuming they would make this right, which was my second mistake, the operator who seemed to be all of 15 years of age, quickly informed me I needed to come down and visit the store and "Purchase" a pair of heavy duty wheels. I informed her I would not purchase wheels as they are included in the order. Evidently this was a concept too difficult for her to comprehend. I then told her it would be like ordering a new car and receiving it minus the back two tires and then being informed you could "Purchase" the tires necessary to operate the new vehicle. She then agreed to give me a $20 gift card. I then asked just send me the tires that go with the handtruck I purchased. No can-do, she replied I then explained you may have solved the issue, but you have lost a customer her reply – "can I help you with anything else" and there you have it. I will never again shop Harbor freight. I could have driven to Home Depot, purchased the same handheld with wheels and would have been done with it. LESSON LEARNED!

Thumbnail of user derekfargofitlife
1 review
0 helpful votes
January 21st, 2024

Paid extra for 2 to 4 days shipping. Didn't even get a shipping number for 4 days. Then when I emailed about it they said sorry for the confusion it takes us 1 to 5 days to process your order, then 2 to 4 days from there. So if you have a timeline on a job don't order from here.

Service
Value
Shipping
Thumbnail of user amis62
1 review
2 helpful votes
April 28th, 2023

Went to this store, was denied help by employees. Jamie store supervisor was rude, rushing me and
Kept stating thier closing time but not offering any assistance. Than rushed me to check out, was argumentative. After shopping and finding what I needed with no assistance, ended up leaving without merchandise because Jamie was rude at check out and said she didn't need my business. I will never go back. Waste of time and abusive experience.

Products used:
None- couldn’t complete a purchase with hostile store supervisor.

Thumbnail of user eugenes471
1 review
0 helpful votes
November 22nd, 2023

The lovely people there cancelled my credit card account w/ no late payments and in good standing due to inactivity. Then hit my credit rating on all three reports. Scam artists. Not the last time you hear from me.

Thumbnail of user stefanie
1 review
4 helpful votes
August 30th, 2023

Manager RENE had terrible disposition when returning a defective item with receipt. Absolutely hates his job and doesn't happily serve the customers who pay his salary - tools are garbage and so is the store. If you want to make money in the community treat the community with respect or go somewhere else and stop ripping people off!

Tip for consumers:
They manufacture their tools in China, then you return it for being defective - they charge a restocking fee. If the item is defective it is not being restocked for sale since it is defective. HOWEVER, the fee covers the cost of building the item SCAM: sell you defective item (make profit), you return with receipt (they charge a restock fee that covers the manufacturing cost anyway), company profits on refunds. In my opinion - FOOD FOR THOUGHT! Stop making crooks rich!

Products used:
Roofing nail gun

Thumbnail of user gregh707
2 reviews
2 helpful votes
September 4th, 2023
Verified purchase

Bought an expensive zurich scanner which said it would perform abs bleeding. When used on my 2010 fusion, i got the message abs bleeding not supported for this vehicle. Harbor freight charged me 20 percent of the price of this tool for restocking fee because it had been opened. I feel i have been misled by the fact that abs bleeding and all makes and models both are checked for this model on the box. Support could not help me when contacted.

Products used:
Zurich zr15s scanner

Service
Value
Returns
Quality
Thumbnail of user charlip6
1 review
0 helpful votes
December 2nd, 2023

This specific location is hiring. Do NOT apply, don't waste your time and energy even thinking about it. They offer you big bucks so they (Elle) can abuse you. This job will effect your home life no matter how you approach your ethics. They (elle) gets satisfaction in bullying grown people. They(Elle) like to create tasks in their job description in order to set her employees up for failure. She carries an attitude problem daily that she projects onto her employees and customers. She causes too much unnecessary drama that mentality unstablizes her employees. She will pick a fight with you even when there's nothing wrong. She does not protect her employees from sexual harrasment or aggressive customers. Truly not worth the medical help you'll need while working here. I promise you will absolutely be taken advantage of just like every single current employee is now. Be safe, and choose wisely.

Tip for consumers:
The products are cheap for a reason. It's smart to get the replacement plan for everything you buy. You'll need to use it within a week of your purchase

Products used:
None

Service
Value
Shipping
Returns
Quality
Thumbnail of user lynnb624
2 reviews
0 helpful votes
January 10th, 2024

I was to receive a Pittsburgh 225 piece tool kit back in November and still have not received it. Company is not responding to calls or emails. I think company is scamming me, be careful with this comapny.

Service
Value
Thumbnail of user russellr423
2 reviews
3 helpful votes
February 26th, 2023
Verified purchase

Was not aware that they charged restocking fee of 20% had purchased a socket set for locking lug nuts got home found it didn't fit any of my vehicles so brought back to store returned item they clipped me for 20 dollars will never shop at harbor freight again pretty disgusting to charge for returning product that doesn't work for customer will go to more reputable store I guess you don't get what you pay for at harbor freight

Tip for consumers:
Go to another store that doesn't have to steal to make a profit

Products used:
N/A

Service
Value
Returns
Quality
Thumbnail of user hollym461
2 reviews
3 helpful votes
November 24th, 2023

So I bought my bf a $100 gift card for his birthday because he wanted a top chest for his tool box! He called to our "local" harbor freight because it said on website that item was not in stock! So he asks on this phone call if he can order it at the store the lady says yes now keep
In mind he gives her all the details of the product! So we go up to the store and he proceeds to tell the lady he wants to order it! She says Oh that is a discontinued item you cannot order it! So he says I called up here and was told I could order it and the manager was very rude and says we have a truck on Thursday call back it might be on there! He really wanted the item that They advertised on Their Website! Why would they have a discontinued item on their website! Just saying! Very bad customer service and zero explanation as to why they are advertising a discontinued item on Their Website! The rudeness was uncalled for! He might take his business elsewhere!

Tip for consumers:
He has purchased many things from Harbor Freight but the customer service and rudeness might have lost themselves a loyal customer!

Products used:
None

Service
Value
Shipping
Returns
Quality
Thumbnail of user jimm2181
3 reviews
3 helpful votes
November 7th, 2023

Went in today to buy some 40 by 50 inch packing blankets. The tag said clearance at $2.97 each when I got to the checkout they rang up at $4.79 each. They argued about it so I left the line went back to the store and took a picture of the tag and brought it back and stood in line for 8 more minutes to get waited on the second time. It said the same thing again they got the manager up there they were all frustrated and told me this is the difference SKU number and I said then why did you put this tag under those items. I am so sick of this crap all the time and whenever I check out they always say that my membership is expired and I need to renew it and I told him I have never ever had a membership and please don't ask that question to everybody that checks out. By the way, this is not one pissed off Customer because I've been purchasing stuff here for 35 to 40 years when everything had to be ordered from their catalog and shipped here from California.

Thumbnail of user brucet572
1 review
0 helpful votes
December 11th, 2023

I had to give a 1 start I wouldn't have given any stars the products they sell are cheap and poorly made I bought a battery charger that will not charge a dead battery it was just after the 90 day return Period and they said it was after that time and there was nothing they could do so there's something I can do never buy anything from them again.

Service
Value
Returns
Quality
Thumbnail of user josephc3441
1 review
1 helpful vote
January 4th, 2023
Verified purchase

I went to Harbor Freight after seeing that they were giving 25% off purchases on 1/2/2023. I wanted to buy a 5 tier set of shelves. Got to the register for checkout and was informed that the 25% off was for members only. This fact was not mentioned in their ad on social media. Harbor Freight should make it clear in their ads that their discounts do not apply to everyone.

Update: I called up the add which was in effect for the 25% off after Christmas Sale and it did say for Members Only. My Bad

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