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Everyone knows Lowe's for home improvement needs, but if you're really looking to save money on shopping, don't underestimate Harbor Freight. From lawn and garden items to tools, Harbor Freight has a solid selection of discounted essentials for your next project.
But what exactly makes the retailer a better alternative? Below, consider these 10 reasons to switch to shopping at Harbor Freight over Lowe's.
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It's easier to get around the store
Short on time? Shopping at Harbor Freight can sometimes be quicker than Lowe's due to the smaller store sizes. On average, Harbor Freight locations are about 15,000 to 16,500 square feet, compared to Lowe's locations, which average 112,000 square feet.
The smaller size of Harbor Freight stores means you can stop in quicker and find items faster when running errands.
There are fewer nonsense items
Lowe's has many non-home-related items throughout the store, such as food, drinkware, and lifestyle products. In comparison, Harbor Freight has fewer 'nonsense' items, which can keep you focused on your shopping mission without distraction if tools are your main priority.
Ultimately, this can save you money by avoiding purchasing unnecessary items you see as you pass through the store.
Coupons and discount codes are frequent and stackable
Harbor Freight is famous for its frequent and varied coupons to help members save. And often, the retailer allows shoppers to stack coupons depending on the fine print of each coupon.
This means shoppers who stack coupons at the right time and wait to purchase essentials with these discounts could save compared to shopping at Lowe's.
There is a convenient warranty on hand tools
Harbor Freight offers a great selection of everyday tools like wrenches and screwdrivers. Even better, the retailer offers a lifetime warranty on defective hand tools, giving you peace of mind with your purchase.
If something goes wrong with your hand tool, rest assured, the company will replace the item or substitute it with a similar item if the original isn't in stock.
You'll have easy access to exclusive member deals
Often, Harbor Freight's membership perks offer quicker access to savings with exclusive member pricing.
In fact, for only $29.99 per year, members get automatic access to member-only deals online and in-store that do not rely on the accumulation of points. Many of these deals are also easily accessible on Harbor Freight's exclusive Member-Only Deals page. And while you'll need to be part of the Inside Track Club to take advantage of them, no account or sign-in is needed to view them.
There isn't much upselling
As a full-service home improvement store, Lowe's relies heavily on upselling by offering services like add-on warranties or installation services.
Shopping at Harbor Freight offers a more streamlined experience with a simple store layout and less emphasis on selling additional services. This can help easily distracted shoppers stay focused on their mission and save more money.
They have a massive tool selection
Harbor Freight has a huge selection of tools, which they specialize in selling at discounted prices. In fact, according to the company, stores carry over 7,500 different tools. That may also mean finding one you couldn't at Lowe's.
Plus, searching for the tools you need in store can be easier in Harbor Freight than Lowe's, thanks to the smaller store layouts.
You may get better customer service
When competing against larger retailers, one thing that smaller stores like Harbor Freight can offer is a more personalized experience.
Not only can the size of Lowe's stores sometimes make it difficult to find assistance while shopping on the floor, but Harbor Freight may offer more personalized and easily-accessible customer service due to more readily available staff.
They offer cheaper tools
Lowe's is known for offering a full-spectrum of products from beginner to high-end. But if you're looking to save money with budget-friendly tools that get the job done, Harbor Freight is a better choice.
For example, an 8-piece screwdriver set at Harbor Freight will run you just $9.99. At Lowe's, the lowest price we found for an 8-piece set was $20.
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
Did you know there are over 1,500 Harbor Freight stores around the country? Make the smart homeowner decision and switch to shopping at Harbor Freight over Lowe's for a cheaper, easier shopping experience. In addition, signing up for a Harbor Freight credit card could help you save even more and means you get access to exclusive member benefits.
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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