Business Profile

Hardware and Tools

Harbor Freight Tools

Headquarters

This business is NOT BBB Accredited.

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Complaints

This profile includes complaints for Harbor Freight Tools's headquarters and its corporate-owned locations. To view all corporate locations, see

Customer Complaints Summary

333 total complaints in the last 3 years.
81 complaints closed in the last 12 months.

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The complaint text that is displayed might not represent all complaints filed with BBB. Some consumers may elect to not publish the details of their complaints, some complaints may not meet BBB's standards for publication, or BBB may display a portion of complaints when a high volume is received for a particular business.

Initial Complaint
Date:07/31/2025
Type:Service or Repair Issues
Status:
AnsweredMore info
Complaint statuses
Resolved:
The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.
Unresolved:
The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.
Answered:
The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.
Unanswered:
The business failed to respond to the dispute.
Unpursuable:
BBB is unable to locate the business.
Date:7/27 Business does not honor lifetime warranty.If they have intention of honoring the "lifetime warranty", they shouldn't advertise it.Note this is for the 6 inch dial caliper and not the 6 inch digital calipers which have "limited warranties".
Business Response
Date: 08/11/2025
I am in receipt of the complaint filed by ***** *******. In response to the complaint, the PITTSBURGH 6 in. Dial Caliper, referenced as item *****, does in fact have a lifetime warranty. The alternative item ********** 6 in. Digital Caliper with SAE and Metric Fractional Readings item ***** only carries a limited 90 day warranty. To utilize the lifetime warranty, any guest can visit our local store with the product, a valid government issued ID, and proof of purchase to facilitate an exchange. If the product is not available, a comparable product or store credit will be offered. I would like to thank you for providing us with the opportunity to respond to the ***** ******* complaint. Thank you.
Initial Complaint
Date:07/28/2025
Type:Sales and Advertising Issues
Status:
AnsweredMore info
Complaint statuses
Resolved:
The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.
Unresolved:
The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.
Answered:
The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.
Unanswered:
The business failed to respond to the dispute.
Unpursuable:
BBB is unable to locate the business.
************************ and Hostile Treatment at Harbor Freight -On July 26th, I visited the Harbor Freight store in **********, to purchase a hitch ramp for my wheelchair. From the start, most of the male staff were rude and dismissive, but I needed the ramp, so I made the purchase.After completing the purchase, I requested *** accommodation to help lift the ramp into place so I could insert the security pin into my vehicles hitch. Instead of providing assistance or available options, multiple employees told me what they would not do to help. I stood there sweating profusely due to my terminal illness, but the manager was equally dismissive and refused to allow anyone to ********* daughter and I were forced to go outside and try to manage the 40-pound aluminum frame ourselves. We quickly realized there were additional items we needed, but the store was completely unhelpful as we struggled. I had to go back and forth buying things they didnt care to informed me I would need, even something as basic as scissors to cut the zip ties, while no one offered to help.I was humiliated and ultimately had to give up because I could not lift the 40-pound ramp into place. My daughter returned inside to ask for help just to put the box into our car so we could leave. Instead, the staff argued that they had already refused to help us. She explained that all we needed was for someone to place the box in the car and only then did one employee reluctantly come outside and lift the box into my vehicle.Everyone we interacted with (except for one kind female employee) was cruel and insensitive to a medically vulnerable, disabled woman and her daughter. I left feeling unsafe, humiliated, and completely unsupported, even though my *** accommodation request was legitimate and reasonable.
Business Response
Date: 07/30/2025
I am in receipt of complaint from ****** ****, and we will share this with store leadership team to address her concerns.
Customer Answer
Date: 07/30/2025

Complaint: 23659228

Im rejecting this response because I havent been contacted nor given an option to return this item Im unable to use being disabled.

Sincerely,

****** ****
Business Response
Date: 08/05/2025
With respect to Ms. ****** **** concerns, I'm sorry she missed the call 07/30 since there was no answer a voicemail was left. I will have store leadership reach out again.
Initial Complaint
Date:07/28/2025
Type:Product Issues
Status:
AnsweredMore info
Complaint statuses
Resolved:
The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.
Unresolved:
The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.
Answered:
The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.
Unanswered:
The business failed to respond to the dispute.
Unpursuable:
BBB is unable to locate the business.
I bought a PREDATOR (brand) Gas-Powered Earth Auger. Within 30 minutes of use 3 screws came out of the unit, it burned oil, and the cotterpin (which was holding in the only pin for the blade) fell out too. All with normal use. I immediately called the store manager who told me I had 90 days for returns. There was no concern for the safety problems. I brought the unit back to the store after work the next day. I was charged almost $50 as a restock fee. I told them the machine could have caused me grave bodily harm, and would NOT like a replacement. I do not trust the product, and that was the only brand/model in the store.I called the corperate number and relayed the same safety concern (fell apart and could have caused grave bodily harm) and the company told me there were "not many" reports of the auger breaking down. They did not take the report seriously at all. They also lied and told me all they could offer me was $25 gift card for my inconvenience and would not refund my restocking fee. They were very clear the offer was jot a return of the restocking fee and they had no ability to issue more, or return my restock fee. They had no interest in the safety concerns and lied about their ability to issue a refund of the restocking fee.
Business Response
Date: 07/29/2025
I am in receipt of the complaint filed by ***** *******. In response to the complaint, I contacted the customer directly and documented a safety allegation, which has been forwarded to our ***************** team for further review. We will follow up with the customer once the case has been reviewed and closed, to determine appropriate next steps for resolution.
Customer Answer
Date: 07/30/2025
Better Business Bureau:

I have reviewed the response made by the business in reference to complaint ID ********, and find that the action(s) thus far is satisfactory to me and I am awaiting follow up actions from the company

Sincerely,

***** *******
Business Response
Date: 08/05/2025
The customer is stating this is satisfactory, we are unsure why this was put in as a rejection.
Initial Complaint
Date:07/25/2025
Type:Service or Repair Issues
Status:
AnsweredMore info
Complaint statuses
Resolved:
The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.
Unresolved:
The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.
Answered:
The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.
Unanswered:
The business failed to respond to the dispute.
Unpursuable:
BBB is unable to locate the business.
I purchased light bulbs from Harbor Freight. I paid cash. The total price was 3.20. The bulbs will not fit my light. I tried to return them to the store for a refund. I had my receipt which clearly states proof of purchase required for returns or exchanges. I questioned why they would not refund my money and showed the receipt. Still they would not refund my money. Three dollars and twenty cent is not much money but I do not throw money away.
Business Response
Date: 08/05/2025
Hello,
After reviewing, we recommend the customer contact us directly through customer service so we may rectify the issue with a gift card and apologize for any inconvenience.
Thank you for the opportunity for us to respond to this!
Initial Complaint
Date:07/21/2025
Type:Product Issues
Status:
AnsweredMore info
Complaint statuses
Resolved:
The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.
Unresolved:
The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.
Answered:
The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.
Unanswered:
The business failed to respond to the dispute.
Unpursuable:
BBB is unable to locate the business.
I ordered a HAUL-MASTER 5 ft. x 10 ft. Custom Modular Utility Trailer Top Rail System, they delivered and returned near the destination after 1 week - I called to learn what was about, and I was told that a new package will be sent, meanwhile I learned that I do not need it any more, so it was 5PM in **, I called to tell to cancel but I was told that their customer service program ended - on next day morning I called by 8:11 AM, waited on line for 15 min, that an assistant to answer, I told her I need to cancel and not send any package, just refund, and she said that the limit was 3 h after the order. She ignored all my arguments and forced the delivery - I objected to that - as they were able to cancel an order send and return after 1500 miles away, but she did not want to stop an order that was not sent - I wrote in time cancelation e-,mails but the company does not read them - is despicable this business style...It is their fault, as sloppy delivery, very late, and refuse cancelation on ******* cancelation was on time inside 3 "office hours", or at about 30 min. after I talked with an operator in CA office and she said that will reorder the sloppy delivery/returned during transportation product...all is their fault, sloppy delivery ARROGANT customer service. Ask for cancelation and refund !
Business Response
Date: 07/31/2025
I am in receipt of the complaint filed by Mr. *********** In response to the complaint, Mr. ****-***** was refunded in the amount of $243.79 (item + tax). The customer was refunded per their request on 07/18/2025 at 15:35:00 PM. I would like to thank you for providing us with the opportunity to respond to Mr. ****-******* complaint. Thank you.
Initial Complaint
Date:07/14/2025
Type:Delivery Issues
Status:
AnsweredMore info
Complaint statuses
Resolved:
The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.
Unresolved:
The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.
Answered:
The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.
Unanswered:
The business failed to respond to the dispute.
Unpursuable:
BBB is unable to locate the business.
Product not delivered on date stated at time stated, refusal of refund.
Business Response
Date: 07/19/2025
Hi,

I am in receipt of the complaint filed by ****** *******.

In response to the complaint, we reached out to ****** via email on 7/19. We acknowledged her concerns, apologized for the confusion and delay, and confirmed that our records show the order was picked up on July 17. We asked if she has now received the product and invited her to let us know if anything remains unresolved.

We are currently waiting for her response.
Initial Complaint
Date:07/13/2025
Type:Product Issues
Status:
AnsweredMore info
Complaint statuses
Resolved:
The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.
Unresolved:
The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.
Answered:
The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.
Unanswered:
The business failed to respond to the dispute.
Unpursuable:
BBB is unable to locate the business.
I purchased a two piece toolbox on 6-8-25. **** the Store Manager said it would arrive in 2 to 3 weeks. It has been over 6 weeks today and I went to get a refund because I can not wait any longer. ******** at the store said 1/2 of the toolbox is in. When I asked for a refund she said I would have to wait until the other half came in, probably late August. They gave me a customer service number and told me to call it because they can not refund me.If the Store Manager **** would have told me I would have to wait 6 weeks, let alone 12, I would not have purchased it.I'm requesting a full refund.
Business Response
Date: 07/18/2025
Due to the complex inventory nature of the Pre-sale process, Pre-sale orders are not able to be cancelled or changed until they arrive in-store. This information is provided on the receipt. You can get a refund once the second item arrives in store, the *** for that currently is 8/22/25. I'm sorry for the delay, we do try to get our items in as quick as possible for our customers, but there are some delays in shipping or production which we cannot foresee or counter.
Customer Answer
Date: 07/22/2025

Complaint: 23593679

I am rejecting this response because:

Sincerely,

***** Troll
Customer Answer
Date: 08/01/2025
I am rejecting their response because it's not okay to sell a product and not be VERY clear that it will not arrive for 2 to 3 months. Moreover not be able to get your money until the product that you no longer want arrives. This is a BS policy!!
If the store manager, **** would have not told me the product would arrive in 2 weeks I would not have bought it. One part took 6 weeks and the other part still has not arrived 10 weeks later.
Business Response
Date: 08/08/2025
Thank you for your response. I'm sorry for the confusion, Presale orders cannot be returned, cancelled or exchanged until they are at the store due to system and inventory limitations, this information is on the receipt. I show this was ordered on 6/8/25 and is currently at the store. You may go to the store of purchase in order to get a refund.
Customer Answer
Date: 08/12/2025

Complaint: 23593679

I am rejecting this response because:
The policy that requires me to wait two months after I purchased a product that was promised in two weeks to get my money back is unacceptable.

Sincerely,

***** Troll
Business Response
Date: 08/21/2025
I have *** with the customer explaining that they can get the refund they are requesting at the store, we do not have a way to provide the refund over the phone. The store would also have to handle any adjustments if they do choose to accept items with compensation.
Initial Complaint
Date:06/30/2025
Type:Sales and Advertising Issues
Status:
ResolvedMore info
Complaint statuses
Resolved:
The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.
Unresolved:
The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.
Answered:
The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.
Unanswered:
The business failed to respond to the dispute.
Unpursuable:
BBB is unable to locate the business.
On 06/19/2025 I contacted Harbor Freight's customer service regarding purchasing a new frame for a canopy I purchased last year at their local store in my town. I promptly received a email back from an associate at their contact center named ****** who seemed very willing to help me. She regretfully informed me that the frame in question was not available for purchase but since I was "a loyal customer and long-time paying member of their ****************** that she would like to offer me a gift card to use toward my next purchase in-store or online. All she needed was for me to confirm some basic information, which I did. The next day came around and I sent a follow-up message to see if she had received the needed info to process the gift card. I got a message back saying they needed me to confirm the same information I had already confirmed the previous day. Again, I did and a few days went by with no reply from them. I've sent them emails for four days and at this point I have reason to believe they are either ignoring me or have blocked me. The reason I think they blocked my email address is because after using a family member's email address to message them, I promptly received a response. This is not acceptable considering I have been a PAYING ***************** member for YEARS and they can't simply respond to a email from a long time loyal customer. I will be cancelling my membership and I have contacted my state attorney general's office regarding this issue.
Business Response
Date: 07/08/2025
I am in receipt of the complaint filed by **** ******. In reviewing the complaint, I show that we responded to the customer on June 28, 2025 and provided the order number associated with the gift card that was offered. I have also reached out directly to the customer to confirm receipt of that email and the gift card in question. We value our customers feedback and are always working to ensure any concerns are addressed thoroughly. I would like to thank you for providing us with the opportunity to respond to **** ******** complaint.
Customer Answer
Date: 07/08/2025

Better Business Bureau:

I have reviewed the response made by the business in reference to complaint ID ********, and find that this resolution is satisfactory to me.

Sincerely,

**** ******
Initial Complaint
Date:06/30/2025
Type:Product Issues
Status:
AnsweredMore info
Complaint statuses
Resolved:
The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.
Unresolved:
The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.
Answered:
The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.
Unanswered:
The business failed to respond to the dispute.
Unpursuable:
BBB is unable to locate the business.
On June 25, 2025, I purchased a power washer at Harbor Freight. Only after completing the purchase was I informed there would be a 20% restocking fee for returns.When I asked why this information wasnt disclosed before buying, the cashier explained she only saw it after ringing up the item, as it appears in their computer system and only on the printed receipt. There were no signs on the shelf, the product box, or anywhere in the store mentioning this fee beforehand.This is a deceptive business practice, as it hides critical return policy information until after the sale is final. According to Consumer Reports, if a store fails to clearly disclose a restocking fee before purchase and then tries to enforce it, this may be considered unfair or deceptive and may violate consumer protection laws.I then called and spoke with Manager ****, requesting that the store clearly post the restocking fee on or near products so customers can make informed choices. Instead of resolving the issue, he argued and made excuses, saying they have many cashiers and cannot disclose the fee beforehand. He refused to accept the power washer back for a full refund.I have been a loyal Harbor Freight customer for over 25 years and always valued fairness. I am not asking for special treatment only for equal consumer rights and honest practices. By hiding this policy, Harbor Freight misleads customers and damages ******** a result, ********************** has lost my business, and I will pursue remedies through Michigan consumer protection agencies. I request a full refund without the restocking fee and that Harbor Freight immediately post clear restocking fee notices in-store and on products to prevent future deception.Thank you for addressing this serious issue promptly.
Business Response
Date: 07/13/2025
I am in receipt of the complaint filed by ***** *********. In response to the complaint, the restocking fee is posted on the product shelfs, at the registers, and on the receipt. We have reached out to ***** via email to offer a 50% refund of the restocking fee as a courtesy. We are waiting for a response from *****.
Initial Complaint
Date:06/25/2025
Type:Service or Repair Issues
Status:
ResolvedMore info
Complaint statuses
Resolved:
The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.
Unresolved:
The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.
Answered:
The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.
Unanswered:
The business failed to respond to the dispute.
Unpursuable:
BBB is unable to locate the business.
On 6/9/2025 I purchased a Predator 5000/3900W DF Invertor generator for $799 +tax. After servicing the generator and test running it, it would only run for about 10 seconds and shutoff no matter how many times I tried to get it to run properly. I tried calling their tech service numerous times ,but only got a recording they were closed. I called the store where I purchased it and told them of the running issues and was told I could bring it back for a new one or upgrade to another model. They said they were out on the one I purchased so I wanted a full refund since it was defective. When I returned it on 6/16/2025 and explained everything again and I wanted a full refund, they charged me a restocking fee of $160 on a defective generator even though they said they were going to send it back to the supplier, not restocking it.
Business Response
Date: 07/10/2025
We are in receipt of the complaint and understand the frustration of the generator not working as well as a replacement being unavailable. The re-stocking fee can be waived when an even-exchange or the unit is exchanged for an upgrade or if the box had never been opened. I understand the exact same unit was not available for exchange at the time, we would like to offer a one-time courtesy digital gift card in the amount of $100.00 due to the inconvenience incurred with this experience, the gift card would be sent to the email address on file: ******************* Thank you for the opportunity to address this matter.
Customer Answer
Date: 07/13/2025

Better Business Bureau:

I have reviewed the response made by the business in reference to complaint ID ********, and find that this resolution is ok with me, but leaves a bad taste in my mouth for Harbor Freight in general. I spent a lot of time prepping the generator, buying and filling the engine oil, adding fuel with stabilizer and testing its operation only to have to drain out all fuel before returning this defective unit. My time means a lot to me these days, so does where I spend my money!
Please make sure to use my correct email address: ****************** not ************** in your response.

Sincerely,

*** *****

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Harbor Freight Tools is NOT a BBB Accredited Business.