Most home improvement stores are now offering curbside pick up with the exception of a few items that can't be picked up like: mulch, lumber, paint (however paint could be shipped home). You will be able to see which items are available for in store pick up when you are shopping online, as well as which items qualify for free shipping if you spend a certain amount.
Overall: It is really convenient to order online, get all the items you need pulled and ready for you then they go straight to your trunk (100% contactless) versus going inside with your mask, hunting for all the items you need, and then checking out to pay.
Note:
- Depending when you order - your order may not be ready the same day. It depends on the day (employees on hand pulling your order), stock availability of your product (some items will be shipped to store for pick up), as well as the time you order.
- Once you receive an email for pick up, you do have a time period (usually 1 week) to pick up so you do not need to pick up your orders urgently unless you need your items immediately. You can check on your email date you need to pick up your order by.
- Make sure to only go to your store when you have a confirmation e-mail that states your order is ready for pick up as well as store hours.
I'll share with you all my experiences:
Note: Your location/experience may vary.
Ace Hardware - There were big red flags that said Ace Hardware along with a sign showing Curbside Pick Up. I parked along the curb and called the phone number on my receipt (of the store), gave my name, car description, and popped the trunk. An employee brought my items out, loaded them into my trunk with the invoice and closed my trunk.
Home Depot - There will be designated parking spots out front, call and let them know you're there, your order name, and parking stall #. However, I had to call twice and waited over 10 minutes in total for someone to pick up the phone as it just kept ringing. An employee will bring your order out, but I believe the employees at my location were not as trained because she stood by the passenger side and I told her to please put my order in the trunk.
Be sure to check your receipt because I had another experience when I ordered an item and the receipt states it's placed in the locker, but could be called for curbside pick up if wanted. The Home Depot orange lockers are out in front of the store so I picked it up myself - it was very easy scanned my barcode on my phone and the locker opened. However, if you don't have a smartphone then you would call and let them know to get it for you.
Lowes - There will be designated parking spots out front, call and let them know you're there, your order name, and parking stall #. An employee will bring your order out to your trunk, place items in with your receipt, and close your trunk.
Overall: I had a wonderful and smooth experience minus the hiccup at Home Depot. It is also probably because this is a new system for the employees to adapt to, but nonetheless, everything in all of my orders were accurate and it was 100% contactless! If you're needing items at home improvement stores and hesitate to go in stores, this is a great route!
Source: My personal experience
