New Harbor Freight Experience For Me (Rant Ahead)

[joe_267]

So over the past couple weeks I have purchased over $500 in equipment from HF. I had to return a couple items as I didn't need them. Like $40 worth in returns. I had originally paid debit/cash and had the receipt.

Go to make the return, and the cashier tells me, I can only get a HF gift card. [emoji53]
I mentioned that I wanted it credited back to my debit account as they always do. Was told not possible. Was polite and friendly. Finally, a manager came over, issued a gift card then cashed it out for cash. I thanked both for their help, wished them a good evening, and the cashies said "yup". Obviously pissed off.

Is this a new thing with HF or just some kind of fluke situation? It all worked out, but appreciate being treated like a pariah.

Anyone else have any problems lately? If a change has been implemented I guess I'll start shopping elsewhere for some stuff. Wish Northern Tool would open around here!

Sorry for the rant! [emoji1]

 

[Danglerb]

Could be the holidays, people do CRAZY stuff, and giving back cash seems to be the first thing that is removed to stop fraud.

 

[goodysgotacuda]

Last thing I returned I received cash back. 2-3 weeks ago.

 

[rsieracki]

i noticed a sign about 'debt card returns' and a new policy at menard's the other day... perhaps there is some new regulation on debt cards or something... i ignored the sign as even when using a debt card i use as a 'credit' as it makes returns 'credited' as i usually use plastic so a look up can be done at most places if the receipt is lost.

 

[5.0 clunker]

Just out of curiosity did you have a receipt? I know that they will only give in store credit for items that do not have proof of purchase. This stops shoplifters from getting cash on stolen items.

 

[Bigbandguy]

It is very likely a seasonal thing along with a fraud prevention. Some people will open a new bank account just in time to get checks and a debit card and then max out the debit card to get cash along with a string of rubber checks.

Tis the season for the scam unfortunately.


Henry

 

[CRF8]

Not directly related to the OP, but pathetic pawnshops in Florida "BUY" gift cards from the shoplifters at a reduced cost.

 

[joe_267]

Yeah had a receipt. Not sure what the issue was. Maybe it's just a holiday thing.

I need to return another item, that obviously someone returned prior to me, and it was put on the shelf missing a ton of parts.

We'll see what happens. That was a debit card purchase as well.

Starting to think I may stop being such a cheapskate and start shopping somewhere a little better in the future.

 

[joe_267]

Not directly related to the OP, but pathetic pawnshops in Florida "BUY" gift cards from the shoplifters at a reduced cost.

That *****. Pretty pathetic for sure!

 

[Harrison2]

I always feel like a cheapskate returning stuff to HF but if it was quality or functional to start with I wouldn't be returning it, I can then use the refunded funds for a better version of said tool and be happy or more importantly safe.

Ive had cash refunds in the last couple weeks/months. Im sure id find a use for a giftcard if it came down to it but yeah it is inconvenient when you have proof of purchase and payment method.

However I wont be that guy returning a $1 screwdriver at 3pm on a sunday afternoon when theres one register open.

 

[joe_267]

I always feel like a cheapskate returning stuff to HF but if it was quality or functional to start with I wouldn't be returning it, I can then use the refunded funds for a better version of said tool and be happy or more importantly safe.

Ive had cash refunds in the last couple weeks/months. Im sure id find a use for a giftcard if it came down to it but yeah it is inconvenient when you have proof of purchase and payment method.

However I wont be that guy returning a $1 screwdriver at 3pm on a sunday afternoon when theres one register open.

[emoji106] True true!