Complaints

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

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• 

  Harbor Freight Tools

  22912 Victory Blvd Woodland Hills, CA 91367-1634

• 

  Harbor Freight Tools

  8884 Waltham Woods Rd Parkville, MD 21234

• 

  Harbor Freight Tools

  1775 Shelburne Rd South Burlington, VT 05403

• 

  Harbor Freight Tools

  45 Highland Ave Seekonk, MA 02771-5805

• 

  Harbor Freight Tools

  124 Sycamore St Vestal, NY 13850-2061

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:11/27/2022

  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 5/13/22 I purchased a predator **** super quiet generator from Harbor Freight for ****** As well as added the extended warranty for *****. When doing regular end of the season maintenance on the generator on 11/27/22 while following the manual's instructions on cleaning the spark arrestor. I want to remove the two bolts holding the spark arrestor on to the unit. The one on the right side was completely stripped. Once I got it out I noticed that it was improperly tapped by the factory. I called Harbor freight and they told me that they did not have an extended warranty on file for me and that there was nothing they could do for me. They referred me to call a predator generator which does not seem to have a number or a website as it is a subsidiary of Harbor freight. Anytime my car I just keep getting the runaround.

  Business Response

  Date: 12/30/2022

  In response to ***************************************** current complaint, I have reviewed the complaint mentioned and have attempted to reach ************************** by phone but was unable to reach him. Once we can speak with ************************** we will gladly address his concerns.
  
  
  Thank you as well for providing this opportunity to respond.

  Customer Answer

  Date: 01/05/2023

  (The consumer indicated he/she DID NOT accept the response from the business.)
  Nobody has reached out to me

  Business Response

  Date: 01/11/2023

  In response to ***************************************** current complaint, we have attempted to contact the customer at the number provided but have not been able to speak with **************************. We ask that he contact ** at his earliest convenience at ************** and request to speak to ***** at ext ****.
  
  Thank you as well for providing this opportunity to respond.

  Customer Answer

  Date: 01/13/2023

  (The consumer indicated he/she DID NOT accept the response from the business.)
  I have yet to receive a call from the business nor have I received any voicemails if my phone was off. I will contact the business at the number, provided.

  Customer Answer

  Date: 01/16/2023

  Today I called ***** back. The number provided does not allow you to enter an extension. Waited about 20 minutes to get a hold of a representative, told the representative what was going on and who I was trying to get a hold of. She told me that *************** on lunch and will give me a call as soon as she got back. This was 2 PM. Still have not received a call back nor have I ever received a call from Harbor freight in regards to this matter.

  Business Response

  Date: 01/31/2023

  
  Thank you for contacting Harbor Freight Tools.
  
  We have been in contact with ************************** and have ensured that his return shipping label was received.
  
  Once again, thank you for taking the time to contact us. We value your business and look forward to serving you again soon.

  Customer Answer

  Date: 02/04/2023

   
  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:11/26/2022

  Type:Billing 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 November 13, 2022 at 1:34 pm,at *************** , Harbor Freight Tools.. The sales girl told us we could purchase the generator today and take it with us and they would "honor" the black friday sale price, but we would have to come back to the store on Black Friday 11/25, with sales receipt to get price adjustment.
  We explained that we live in ************, so would that be an issue, She said "No, we could go to ANY Harbor Freight store.
  We have shopped their before and they had made price adjustments in the past, so we believed her. They even gave us the black friday ad so we had everything. The generator was $929.00 and sale price was $779.00.
  When we took our sale slip in on black friday, in*************,Harbor Freight, they wouldn't honor their own ad. They didn't care what we were told. They declined .
  We wouldn't have bought it early, if we knew they weren't going to honor their own sale, especially, since they have done it in the past.
  We are just requesting that they honor what their employee stated, and has-been done prior. We would like our$150.00 refund which we are entitled to.
  I wasn't expecting an issue so I don't have a name, but********************************************************************************************************* was the cashier.
  Than you for any assistance in this matter.
  

  Business Response

  Date: 01/18/2023

  Business Response /* (1000, 8, 2022/12/30) */
  Thank you for contacting Harbor Freight Tools.
  
  I apologize for the inconvenience Mr.******* has experienced with us. What he described is not what we want for our customers. Our goal is to provide friendly and helpful service every day.
  
  I forwarded this information to the appropriate District Manager for Store #****. They will review the information and make every effort to correct the situation for you.
  
  We appreciate you taking the time to provide us with feedback, and again, I apologize for the poor experience. If you need further assistance, please let us know.
  
  
  Consumer Response /* (3000, 10, 2023/01/11) */
  (The consumer indicated he/she DID NOT accept the response from the business.)
  The only response we received was a phone message on January 2, 2023 requesting our email with times to contact us.On January 4, 2023 we provided that to ****, from Harbor Freight, stating anytime. Today, January 11 , we resent message. So,basically nothing has happened to rectify the issue.
  Thank you for your continued assistance.
  
  
  Consumer Response /* (2000, 13, 2023/01/15) */
  On January 14, 2023 the issue was resolved. Thank you for your continued assistance! They did a return and repurchase. Which allowed us to receive it at the sale price. They provided a credit to our account. This is a satisfactory resolution. Thank you!

• Initial Complaint

  Date:11/25/2022

  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 ****************** flashlight from harbor freight several months ago. It is outside the normal return window, however, the light has stopped working for no apparent reason. It has a very weak light output, no matter what type of new batteries I try, and it intermittently loses all light output.
  I attempted to contact HF via chat, but they apparently do not have this option and I want all communication in writing. I know they have email, however email to large companies tend to be lost or overlooked often.
  

  Business Response

  Date: 12/22/2022

  Business Response /* (1000, 5, 2022/12/02) */
  In response to Mr. ********* current complaint, Harbor Freight Tools makes every effort to assure that its products meet high quality and durability standards, and warrants to the original purchaser that this product is free from defects in materials and workmanship for 90 days beginning on the date of purchase or order.
  
  To assist Mr. *******, we need more information. Please provide your original Invoice Number/Retail Sales Ticket Number, date of purchase, and store number. Once we receive this information we will be happy to review this matter further and properly address his concerns.
  
  We look forward to assisting you once we have this information. We appreciate your understanding and patience.

• Initial Complaint

  Date:11/07/2022

  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.

  Applied for harbor freight credit card to get 10% off purchase plus harbor freight rewards dollars.
  Made $2000 purchase on card in Aug 2022 and received the %10 off. Paid off balance in full in Sept. Waited 2 billing cycles and did not receive rewards. Called CS and they said wait another billing cycle. Received may third billing statement and no rewards. I called CS again and they told me to wait a couple more billing cycles.
  So harbor freight owes me $100 in rewards and I might receive it in 4-5 billing cycles (I hope). It clearly says reward dollars will be received within 1-2 billing cycles.
  

  Business Response

  Date: 12/19/2022

  Business Response /* (1000, 8, 2022/12/02) */
  In response to Mr. *********** current complaint, I apologize for the inconvenience he has experienced with us. What he described is not what we want for our customers. Our goal is to provide friendly and helpful service every day.
  
  I forwarded this information to our Credit Card Team. They will review the information and make every effort to correct the situation for you.
  
  If you have questions about your account, please call the following phone number:
  
  Harbor Freight Credit Card (*********)
  ***************
  
  Please note:
  If you are an existing customer, please have your account number ready.
  
  You may enroll your account for online access by visiting:
  
  **********************************************
  
  Once again, thank you for taking the time to contact us.

• Initial Complaint

  Date:11/07/2022

  Type:Product Issues
  Status:

  UnresolvedMore 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 paint sprayer at the harbor freight and I had to take it back and when I did they put the money on someone else's card and told me to Thursday nothing else they can do about it
  

  Business Response

  Date: 02/02/2023

  Business Response /* (1000, 6, 2022/11/15) */
  In response to the complaint filed by Mr.********. In response to the complaint, I will need Mr.******** to send me a copy of his return receipt as I was unable to locate this on my end. Once I get a copy of the receipt, I can review the matter further and respond to his concerns.
  
  I would like to thank you for providing us with the opportunity to respond to Mr.********'s complaint. Thank you.
  
  
  Consumer Response /* (3000, 8, 2022/11/21) */
  (The consumer indicated he/she DID NOT accept the response from the business.)
  When I texted the item the clerk only gave me the receipt from the smaller paint sprayer I traded for the big one I have that but it's also on video I have the purchase receipt info but the store will not give. Me a copy of the return receipt because I informed them that I was trying to get the bbb or a lawyer to look into my complaint

• Initial Complaint

  Date:11/05/2022

  Type:Customer Service 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 22nd, 2022 I purchased 4 tarps from Harbor Freight. These tarps are advertised as being "Heavy Duty Reflective All Purpose/Weather Resistant". Their website claims the following: "This heavy duty (size) tarp provides exceptional protection for equipment, tools and other materials. Made with 14 x 14 mesh of 1000 denier nylon threads, the tarp is designed to withstand rain, snow, and especially sun with its silver reflective color that also keeps the items underneath cooler compared to conventional tarps". It also states: "We guarantee this product to be free from defects in materials and workmanship 90 days from the date of purchase". In an effort to keep this within the character limit I will condense the details, but I have taken photos, kept meticulous records, and been as patient as possible while waiting on the business to stand behind their claims/products and reimburse us for their product failure. We utilized these tarps to keep hay out of the weather until we sold it. The tarps quickly weathered, wore thin, and tore in many spots allowing our hay to get wet and ruin. We paid $1.60/bale to have the hay baled and lost a minimum of $5/bale for the sale of the hay. A conservative total of our loss is as follows (there were other expenses and a ton of time lost as well) :
  484 bales completely ruined and unable to be sold = $2,420
  The price we paid to have the hay cut and baled: $1.60 x 484 = $774.40
  For a total of: $3,194.40
  On 9-7-22 I emailed Harbor Freight following a conversation with customer service encouraging me to provide additional information to escalate my claim. On September 19th I was contacted by ***********, a claims specialist from Harbor Freight. I provided her with ample evidence, and everything she asked for very promptly. I am running out of space here, so I will close by saying-I have provided AMPLE evidence and documentation and been as patient as possible. The "company policies and procedures" have been slow and unresolving.
  

  Business Response

  Date: 12/19/2022

  Business Response /* (1000, 9, 2022/12/02) */
  In response to Ms. ******** current complaint, our claims department has been in contact with the customer and still needs her to provide valid documentation from her business showing the alleged loss. Our claims department has remained in consistent contact with the customer and explained the process.
  
  Ms. Bartle may contact the Claims Department at ******************************************************
  
  Once again, thank you for taking the time to contact us.

• Initial Complaint

  Date:10/25/2022

  Type:Customer Service 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******************** online when the store in question did not have the item I was requesting.After a short time after ordering, (within Two (2) hours, I realized that said item would not fit *************. I called customer service to cancel the item, since it would not fit to cancel the order.The male customer service Rep advised me he would send the shipping department an email to stop the shipment. Whether he sent the email or the recipient did not read it or ignored it is unclear. This same Rep advised me, if they don't read the email in time, I could take the item back to the nearest store for a full refund.The very next day, somewhere around 4:00pm, I noticed through the tracking number that it was shipped anyway, even after I called to CANCEL.Within Two (2) hours of receiving said item by ***** to my residence, I returned the item to Harbor Freight Tools, located at the above stated address in****************.I spoke to a ************* cashier**************** explaining the above and asked for a full refund. She didn't really understand how to do it, so, she invited her manager,***************************** to assist. He came over, punched in some numbers and stated, "I am only going to give you the retail price of $13.00 and some odd cents. My reply was, "No, your going to give me my money back." Not my fault it was shipped after I canceled the order within Two (2) hours, it's the Rep's fault for not doing what he said he was going to do, and that is, "cancel the order." (Keep in mind, he was teaching his subordinate cashier to do the same). (This manager was trying to con me out of my money, by only giving me back the retail price. Then, he asked me for my credit card information. I told him I didn't have it on me, because at this point, he is not getting any information from my card as he was being dishonest. In my opinion, he is not trust worthy, if he is violating his own company policy. Hassle FREE return policy? NOT SO. Left said .
  

  Business Response

  Date: 12/02/2022

  Business Response /* (1000, 5, 2022/11/08) */
  In response to Mr. ********* concerns, I apologize for the inconvenience you have experienced with us. What you described is not what we want for our customers.
  
  To properly address your concerns can you please provide us with the 9-digit order number, or the billing and shipping address used at the time of the purchase? As I am unable to locate an order with the information provided.
  
  Once we receive this information, we will be happy to assist you.

• Initial Complaint

  Date:10/18/2022

  Type:Customer Service 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.

  I purchased item #***** (2-ton capacity foldable shop crane) for $287.99 USD + tax at Harbor Freight Tools in Seekonk, MA on 09/17/2022 at 2:38 pm. I was informed by the manager - who was very polite - that there were only "open box" units available for this tool at this exact location because all of the boxes were apparently damaged en route to store, but that if any items had not been included, she assured it would be zero problem to return to the location and receive any missing parts: I was additionally given a 10% discount (by her own choice) due to the item being open box, as shown on the attached receipt where it shows normal price of $319.99 USD. I brought the tool to my garage and was forced into work while unloading it, and had no time to assemble or inspect the contents. About 2-3 weeks passed until I was able to finally begin assembly of the tool, and I noticed it was missing the hydraulic cylinder and the handle to pump the cylinder: Without these items, I am stuck with an expensive tool that is completely useless. On 10/13/2022 around roughly 4:30 - 5:00 pm, I visited the store when I finally had time, well within the 90 days for returns and exchanges explicitly stated both on the receipt and Harbor Freight Tools website. Upon entry, I was asked by the manager working that day - who instantly noticed the receipt in my hand - what I needed help with. Once I began explaining the above-mentioned, he quickly appeared irritated with me politely asking that I either simply receive the missing parts or exchange the tool/ receive a refund altogether. His response was "well, it was sold open box so you only had a week... or maybe ten days", which I was never told upon purchase and is a confusing answer regardless. I am unable to find where this "policy" for open box returns is stated anywhere in-store or online, and open box was the only purchase option presented to me at the time. I am unsure why this fault of the store now falls on me as the consumer.
  

  Business Response

  Date: 10/27/2022

  Consumer Response /* (2000, 6, 2022/10/23) */
  As of today (10/23/22), I was called by a different and very polite manager of the establishment in question and informed that he had my missing parts set aside and waiting for me. I just picked up both parts and was given an apology, so the situation is now rectified. I greatly appreciate the BBB's help in correcting this situation.

• Initial Complaint

  Date:10/11/2022

  Type:Customer Service 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'm making a complaint against Harbor Freight Tools in Burbank Il. On May 29,2022, I purchased a 2 gallon sprayer. After a couple uses, the sprayer developed a leak on the bottom. I tried to return it to the store , but they referred me to a telephone number , as they said they do not accept returns in person for that product. I called the telephone number who said they do not accept returns after 90 days. I asked if they can exchange the product and they said no. I asked if they back their products any way at all after 90 days and the answer was inherently no. This policy is nowhere on the receipt nor in the store. How are people supposed to shop at a company who only backs their products for 90 days'?!!
  

  Business Response

  Date: 12/08/2022

  Business Response /* (1000, 5, 2022/10/18) */
  Harbor Freight Tools makes every effort to assure that its products meet high quality and durability standards, and warrants to the original purchaser that this product is free from defects in materials and workmanship for the period of 90 days beginning on the date of purchase or order.
  
  An extended warranty is also available for purchase that extends the manufacturer's warranty coverage for the replacement of the item.
  
  In order to properly address ********'s concerns we ask that that they provide us with a copy of the sales receipt. Once we receive this information we can review and respond to their concerns.
  
  We look forward to assisting you once we have this information. We appreciate your understanding and patience.
  
  
  Consumer Response /* (3000, 7, 2022/10/28) */
  (The consumer indicated he/she DID NOT accept the response from the business.)
  Haven't gotten a response yet
  
  
  Business Response /* (4000, 9, 2022/11/08) */
  I have reviewed the receipt provided by********* and have issued a Gift Card refund in the amount of $15.00. Please allow 7-10 business days to receive the gift card by mail to the address you provided. Please dispose of the non-working item.
  
  Please note that the return policy is located on the back of the receipt.
  
  Once again, thank you for contacting us and please let us know if you need further assistance.
  
  We truly appreciate your business.
  

• Initial Complaint

  Date:10/07/2022

  Type:Product 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.

  I purchased a small utility trailer from Harbor Freight within the last three months. Upon installation, I noticed the hub assembly were slinging grease.
  
  I contacted Harbor Freight again and was able to place an order (Order # *********) for free hub assembly replacement since they are under warranty. A few days later I received an email saying the hubs (SKU #*****) are being backordered. I was told it will take up to three weeks to restock the parts.
  
  I called Harbor Freight Parts department at **************** the next day and found out there were 60 hubs (SKU#*****) in stock. Harbor Freight customer rep helped me place a second order for the same items. The current order is *********. The Harbor Freight website says in stock items typically ship within 24-48 hours. One week gone by and no word from Harbor Freight. I called in again and find out the second order is now backordered. However, this time, the rep said it will take up to three months to restock the parts. The story changes from one Harbor Freight rep to another.
  
  I can't return the trailer because it is already assembled and registered. It is very frustrating since I have pending projects that can't be completed without the trailer. I will have to purchase the hub from a different manufacturer since I can't wait three months for the replacement parts.
  
  Lesson learned, you are taking a leap of faith when you buy a product from Harbor Freight.
  

  Business Response

  Date: 11/07/2022

  Business Response /* (1000, 14, 2022/11/07) */
  In response to *******'s current complaint, all of us at Harbor Freight Tools would like to extend our apologies for the shipping delays in receiving the merchandise that was ordered.
  
  We hope that he can accept this apology, as well as our appreciation for his continued patience. We hope we will have another chance and are confident our next experience with Harbor Freight Tools will be a much better one.
  
  Thank you for contacting us, and please let us know if you need further assistance.
  
  
  Consumer Response /* (2000, 16, 2022/11/15) */
  (The consumer indicated he/she ACCEPTED the response from the business.)
  Items were delivered.