Can You Get Keys Copied at Harbor Freight? We Have the Answer
When it comes to home improvement projects and equipment repairs, Harbor Freight is a go-to destination for quality tools at affordable prices. With an extensive selection of hand tools, power tools, tool storage, and shop equipment, they cater to both DIYers and professional contractors alike.
But if you need a new key made or an existing key copied, you may be wondering if Harbor Freight offers this type of service. We're here to provide a definitive answer on whether or not you can get keys duplicated at Harbor Freight.
Key Duplication is Not a Service Offered by Harbor Freight
While Harbor Freight sells a variety of locks, padlocks, and replacement keys for their tool storage products, key making and copying is not a service they provide in their stores.
Harbor Freight focuses exclusively on selling quality tools and equipment at low prices. They do not have key cutting machines or kiosks, nor do they employ locksmiths or other skilled workers to cut new keys.
Key duplication requires specialized equipment and training that is not part of Harbor Freight's business model. Their expertise lies in sourcing and selling affordable tools and hardware accessories to their customers.
Where to Get Keys Made Near Harbor Freight Locations
Just because you can't get keys copied at Harbor Freight doesn't mean there aren't convenient options nearby their store locations. Here are some ideal places to turn to for key duplication services:
- Hardware Stores: Home Depot, Lowes, Ace Hardware, and True Value typically offer in-store key cutting machines.
- Locksmiths: From mobile services to brick-and-mortar storefronts, locksmiths specialize in key duplication.
- Grocery Stores: Many major chains like Walmart, Target, and Kroger have key kiosks inside the store.
- Drug Stores: Pharmacies like CVS and Walgreens often provide key copying services.
These retailers frequently set up shop in close vicinity to Harbor Freight stores, making it easy to get your new key made right after picking up tools and supplies.
Online and Mobile Key Cutting Alternatives
In addition to the traditional key duplication options located near Harbor Freight, there are some convenient modern alternatives:
- Mobile Key Cutting: These services come right to your home or workplace to cut new keys on the spot.
- Online Key Blank Sales: Numerous e-commerce sites sell key blanks that can be shipped directly to your door.
Both mobile and online services allow you to skip the trip to the hardware store when you need a spare key made. The convenience factor makes them worth considering alongside the more traditional key cutting methods.
Professional Locksmiths for Complex Key Projects
While simple key duplication is handled at many retailers and by mobile services, complex key projects often require a professional locksmith.
Situations where you may want to hire a locksmith include:
- High-security locks and restricted key systems
- Luxury and exotic vehicles requiring specialized key blanks
- Home and business rekeying services
- Lock installations, repairs, and replacements
With extensive training and professional-grade equipment, locksmiths can handle intricate key cutting jobs as well as total lock servicing for homes and businesses.
When you need a new key made, Harbor Freight may be your go-to for tools and hardware accessories, but not for key duplication services. They simply do not offer key copying at any of their store locations.
Your best options are to visit a nearby hardware store, drug store, or locksmith instead. For convenience, you can also consider mobile or online key cutting services that come to you.
While Harbor Freight doesn't provide key duplication, they remain a leading retailer for affordable, quality tools for DIYers and professionals alike. You'll just need to look elsewhere when it comes time to getting that extra key made.