A senior discount makes it easy to keep more cash in your wallet. But not every retailer offers this perk.
Harbor Freight is one of the most popular hardware superstores. And while you can get bargains galore, this affordable equipment emporium doesn't offer specific senior deals. Whether you're retired or still working while living on a fixed income, we've got you covered with a few easy ways to save on everything from power tools to lawn and garden supplies.
Are you ready to start shopping? Keep reading for the top tips to cut costs at Harbor Freight.
Editor's note: Prices and availability are subject to change and may vary by location.
Take advantage of everyday low prices
Why spend more at specialty stores when you could get tools, yard gear, and other hardware for less? According to Harbor Freight, the retailer's prices are often half of what you could pay elsewhere. While this doesn't mean you'll always get a 50% discount, you can snag money-saving deals every day at any time without having to show your driver's license just to prove your age.
We compared prices for comparable products at the two stores and found a 20V cordless Bauer drill/driver kit (with a 2 Ah battery and charger) for $59.99. A similar model from Craftsman costs $99 at Lowe's.
Buy an Inside Track Club membership
Unlike Costco and Sam's Club, you don't need a membership to shop at Harbor Freight. But this $29.99 annual option could save you money over time.
Members get early access to sales, monthly deals, a 20% off savings bonus on select sale items/events, and discounts during exclusive member appreciation events. If you're wondering whether the almost-$30 fee is worth it, take it from Redditor MagicScooterEmporium: "I saved more than the cost of the membership on my first purchase alone."
Get coupons online
Visit Harbor Freight's website to score coupons galore. Don't worry about paging through circulars just to find discounts. The retailer's "Super Coupons" offer significant savings.
Like paper coupons, these are limited-time buys. We found a Portland 42cc, 18-inch gas-powered chainsaw for $35 off, a Bauer slide-switch angle grinder for 23% off, and a Drummond submersible utility pump for $30 off, but the coupons change frequently, so there will likely be new deals when you look.
Open a Harbor Freight credit card
Store credit cards, like Harbor Freight's, can save you money if you know how to use them. Shoppers who can't pay off their monthly bills could end up in a financial mess. Accumulating interest adds to the overall price you pay, turning what starts out as a great deal into an outrageously expensive item. But if you score a 0% interest offer or can pay off the card as you use it, store credit offers money-saving benefits.
Of course, these exclusive benefits could change, making it important to review your credit card's terms. New cardholders who are approved can get 10% off their first purchase, although the discount cannot be combined with equal-pay financing. After that, cardholders can earn 5% back in Harbor Freight Money on eligible purchases or choose 0% interest financing with equal monthly payments on qualifying purchases of $299 or more. Financing terms range from six to 36 months, depending on the purchase amount.
Use another cash back credit card
Don't want to open yet another credit card? No problem. Provided you plan on paying off your bill before interest accrues, use your favorite cash back or rewards card to earn airline miles, points, or other perks.
Get brand discounts
This retailer occasionally offers discounts across an entire line. This means you can snag deals on everything from a single brand, like Hercules, Bauer, or Predator, instead of on specific products.
Shop the store's special events
Harbor Freight's special savings events make it easy to cut costs. But you need to know when these sales start. Simply hoping you'll happen to catch an event isn't a smart shopping strategy. Sign up for emails or text message updates, or follow the store's social media pages to get notifications.
Go to Harbor Freight's Parking Lot Sale
Per the retailer's website, this isn't just one of the best sales; it's the biggest. Don't let the title "Parking Lot" trick you into thinking you need to visit the store's parking lot to nab special discounts. You can also find this event online.
Bundle your buys to save money
Think of this money-saving tip as a hardware bulk buy. How does it work? Wait for an exclusive brand deal and bundle together multiple items to save. You could get a free tool or an additional discount.
Wait until items go on clearance
This savvy strategy helps you save money on soon-to-be discontinued items. You can find clearance products in stores and online.
Save on open box deals
Unlike clearance items, you can only get an open box deal in-store.
What exactly is an "open box" product? When a shopper buys an item, opens the box, and returns it to the retailer, Harbor Freight resells it at a discounted price. You get a quality product, possibly gently used, at a lower price.
Get a protection plan on all your appliances
Did you know if your air conditioner stops working, your homeowner’s insurance won’t cover it? Same with plumbing, electrical issues, appliances, and more.
Whether or not you’re a new homeowner, a home warranty from Choice Home Warranty could pick up the slack where insurance falls short and protect you against surprise expenses. If a covered system in your home breaks, you can call their hotline 24/7 to get it repaired.
For a limited time, you can get your first month free with a Single Payment home warranty plan.
Bottom line
Even though Harbor Freight doesn't offer a special discount for more mature customers, we can help you to stay on budget with these smart money moves for seniors. So grab our list and get ready to start shopping.
What stores offer a senior discount? Kohl's offers shoppers ages 60 and older 15% off qualifying in-store purchases every Wednesday. Michaels Rewards members ages 55 and older can save 10% on eligible purchases every day, including sale items. Walgreens offers myWalgreens members ages 55 and older exclusive Seniors Day savings, including 20% off eligible, regularly priced merchandise on the first Tuesday of each month.
More from FinanceBuzz:
- 12 ways to pocket up to $300.
- Are you a homeowner? Get a protection plan on all your appliances.
- 10 little weird hacks Costco shoppers should know.
- Learn how to escape the paycheck-to-paycheck grind.
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