• Hammacher Schlemmer

Hammacher Schlemmer

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Overview

Hammacher Schlemmer has a rating of 1.5 stars from 128 reviews, indicating that most customers are generally dissatisfied with their purchases. Reviewers complaining about Hammacher Schlemmer most frequently mention customer service, christmas tree, and lifetime guarantee problems. Hammacher Schlemmer ranks 698th among Marketplace sites.

  • Service
    58
  • Value
    51
  • Shipping
    53
  • Returns
    47
  • Quality
    47
Positive reviews (last 12 months): 6.7%
Positive
1
Neutral
0
Negative
14
13
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How would you rate Hammacher Schlemmer?
Top Positive Review

“hammacher.com is the website for Hammacher Schlemmer,...”

Eric K.
5/26/11

hammacher.com is the website for Hammacher Schlemmer, a catalog / online retailer with a brick and mortar store in New York. The products sold are unique and interesting. I purchased a robotic vacuum specifically for picking up pet hair and it shipped quick and works perfectly. After that I purchased the robotic mop. The company has been around since 1848. The catalog is now America's longest running, since Sears folded it's catalog operation. Three stars instead of four because the items are pricey, but everything you buy comes with a lifetime guarantee.

Top Critical Review

“Scam”

alex s.
2/17/24

They automatically sign you up for a rewards program when purchasing online. Not only did my product never arrive they have charged me $45 over the last 3 months for their reward program. Beware, there was a class action lawsuit that they paid $475,000 to settle in 2022. Looks like they are back at it.

Reviews (128)

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customer service (46)
Thumbnail of user sandyt167
Pennsylvania
3 reviews
4 helpful votes
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May 22nd, 2021

I was having issues but finally did receive the positive outcome to help with my concern! Thank you in advance for a reasonable solution

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Value
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Quality
Thumbnail of user judithp6
Texas
4 reviews
24 helpful votes
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August 24th, 2019

Returned reading glasses ($96) when they clouded over after 10 mos and were unusable. Instead of replacing, as requested, they refunded me and deducted $10 for shipping. I paid more for the product than from competitors because I thought the quality would be better. If it doesn't last one year, it isn't better. I won't do business with this company ever again.

Thumbnail of user nk60
California
11 reviews
39 helpful votes
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July 29th, 2017

Sometimes there is an expensive product that should solve your problem, but if it does not work, you have spent all of that money for nothing. So Hammacher Schlemmer solves that issue as they refund your money if you are not happy with the product. I did return an item and received a refund without any problem. I have also purchased a lot of products from them that have worked well. The shipping is expensive with no free shipping for larger orders.

Thumbnail of user barbarac565
Texas
2 reviews
9 helpful votes
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December 3rd, 2019

My husband purchased an alarm clock for me from them, and it broke. I called and they said to send it back and they would reimburse me with a gift card. The lady also suggested another product that she said was travel size. It came and it was not travel size. I sent that one back as well. Because I have received no refund or gift cards I called them today. Out of an $89.95 purchase, the man in customer service said I would be refunded $11.99 and no gift cards. I asked to speak with his supervisor, and he said same thing. They even sent the refund to the wrong credit card that no longer exists. Do not buy anything from this company!

Thumbnail of user darrellc153
Washington
2 reviews
3 helpful votes
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November 23rd, 2021
Verified purchase

We ordered a "World's Best Christmas Tree" - arrived with no base and no assembly instructions. Called Customer Service - got mechanical, scripted responses - sorry, blah, blah - we'll order replacement parts, should arrive in 10-15 business days. Asked for a Supervisor, got exact same scripting autobot. He shared no way of knowing if the part is even available - but they don't expediate parts - period! We're returning the $1,000 Best Christmas Tree to the World's worst Customer Service Company! Stay Away - they won't earn your money or trust! PS I also noticed they were unknowingly billing me $14.95/month - for a "rewards" program... I do not remember authorizing that - so everyone who does business with these crooks to check your statement!

Tip for consumers:
AVOID THIS COMPANY - used to be a good one....not anymore!

Products used:
World Best Christmas Tree

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Value
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Thumbnail of user sherryem6
Maryland
1 review
0 helpful votes
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January 29th, 2024

I have to say I am utterly disappointed with the customer service provided by Hammacher Schlemmer. I placed an order in December with an assurance before ordering that my items would arrive by Christmas. Well, needless to say one item arrived and one didn't. The one that did arrive did not work properly and I had to return it. The other item took so long I cancelled it.

When I contacted customer service regarding the cancellation, the service provided by the representative was less than desirable. Then after reviewing my banking info, I realized the rewards I earned were debited back almost immediately. In the mean time, I returned the defective item and am still awaiting my refund. When speaking with the customer service representative, I admit I was clearly upset as I thought I was charged for both items. After reviewing an email with the order, I realized I had not, but still had several questions, which the representative refused to answer. Instead she insisted on placing me on hold. I asked for a supervisor. She neither acknowledged my request for a supervisor nor answered my questions. She placed me on hold! Had she given me an opportunity to ask my questions, she would have learned, that I now see I was only charged for the one item and was curious about reimbursement of the fees associated with gift wrap, shipping, and taxes. I have enjoyed shopping with the company for years, but I have to say this gives me pause when considering future shopping.

Thumbnail of user georgem1184
California
1 review
7 helpful votes
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July 31st, 2020

Ordered an indoor cycling trainer heavily advertised by them. That was July 1st. I have never received an update from them on why it has not yet shipped, just excuses from Customer Service(that's they call themselves). So far the have mislead(apparently lied) and kept moving it back! HERE is where they are just outright Lying and scamming customers for full payment in advance for shipping and the product. NOTE: If you go on their website the are advertising" in stock- ready for shipment" and taking orders. Complete scam

Thumbnail of user dinac221
Mississippi
1 review
2 helpful votes
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September 5th, 2023

Bought an ottoman with table, and table came cracked and scratched. Called about replacement. Was told to send whole package back. Well couldn't find a box big enough to return it, because box was left out in the rain and was soaked. Didn't get much off just delivery fee. Really disappointed with service. Definitely not ordering off here again.

Products used:
Ottoman were good. It was table that was bad.

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Thumbnail of user beeh37
Maryland
1 review
2 helpful votes
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December 3rd, 2022

Please do not order from Hammacher Schlemmer. I never give a bad review without a recommendation for improvement. Here's what happened. Upon receipt of the puzzle table, it was broken during delivery. I spoke with a representative at Hammacher Schlemmer for 15 minutes. I took pictures and emailed Hammacher Schlemmer while on that same conversation and asked for an exhange. I never received the next steps via email and no record of that conversation was ever inputted when I called back. UPS never called to pick up the puzzle table. If you follow-up via email or phone Hammacher Schlemmer just simply starts the process over with no resolution. There are plenty of other companies out there with their products and money doesnt grow in trees so my recommendation is take your precious money elsewhere!

Tip for consumers:
Please do not order from Hammacher Schlemmer. I never give a bad review without a recommendation for improvement. Here’s what happened. Upon receipt of the puzzle table, it was broken during delivery. I spoke with a representative at Hammacher Schlemmer for 15 minutes. I took pictures and emailed Hammacher Schlemmer while on that same conversation and asked for an exhange. I never received the next steps via email and no record of that conversation was ever inputted when I called back. UPS never

Products used:
Puzzle Table

Service
Value
Shipping
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Thumbnail of user dm737
California
1 review
1 helpful vote
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August 18th, 2021

Beware of erroneous monthly charges. I certainly never meant to sign up for Hammacher Rewards for which I was charged $14.95 every month. Perhaps I failed to see some fine print online? Beware and check your statements for any extra charges. Hope this is helpful to others.

Thumbnail of user melissaz690
Tennessee
1 review
8 helpful votes
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November 23rd, 2022

I bought a 700.00 outdoor tree, it worked for one week, called customer service
Returned the tree but they took back the shipping and tax…shorted my refund $52.63…the customer service rep was very hard to understand and kept saying to me they cannot refund shipping.ok.ok. I kept telling her NO.it is not ok.I didn't pay for a defective tree but that's what I got.I want a full refund.again she said nothing she can do.OK.OK…No It is not Ok. I thought this company was reputable.do not waste your money…. Shame on you Hammacher…

Tip for consumers:
Don’t shop here..you will not be satisfied. Overpriced and poor quality.

Thumbnail of user ravenc30
New Jersey
2 reviews
0 helpful votes
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October 3rd, 2022

I had a difficult experience like a lot of people not realizing that I'd signed up for this rewards program and for way too long the fee was recurring on my account. After calling customer service, Vesta helped me work it out and make sure it won't happen again. I won't place blame on the company because I should've been more vigilant about what I'd signed up for or been signed up for. Regardless of all of that it was incredibly refreshing to have a rep that was efficient and helpful all while being polite and understanding. Thank you Vesta!

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Thumbnail of user yalel4
Maryland
1 review
7 helpful votes
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December 1st, 2020

Made a purchase for a Christmas gift. The package was delivered left out in snow and rain under a sign that says to please not leave packages in the garage area and please put them on the front porch. Called the company and submitted a photo of the situation. And spoke with "customer service" that said I could file a compliant but they need to first review the photo and that will take 24-48 hours under normal circumstances. This being the year of COVID-19 I bet it takes longer and they would not say if the item needed replacement if it will get here by Christmas. Totally unacceptable for a supposedly top ot the line service company... never again!

Thumbnail of user jakee11
Australia
2 reviews
2 helpful votes
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August 17th, 2014

I came across Hammacher.com through strictlymancave and I must say this site has some very unique products!
You can spend literally hours browsing through all their products, they're that awesome! They have everything from a Human Bowling Ball set up to a voice activated R2-D2.
The store has been around for 166 years and I must say it is one of the most impressive sites I have come across!

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Thumbnail of user marya4268
New Jersey
1 review
0 helpful votes
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December 4th, 2023

I thought that HS was a nice higher-end company. However, I called in to place an order (Dec 4 - when I received the catalog). It sounded like a big loud party in the background. The person couldn't/didn't take any of my information down correctly (including my email & address) even after asking me several times. I was told the order would be delivered in 5-8 days. Because I felt so uncertain I called back and was told most of the information on my order was wrong and that it would take until after Christmas to get the order. I canceled and won't be ordering from them again. I hope they fix their systems & processes.

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Thumbnail of user yunsunk
Virginia
1 review
8 helpful votes
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May 24th, 2021

Poor customer service, unacceptable used item shipped, missing qty of multiple orders, and slow refund process. I used to shop years ago, but no more hassle, aggregation and waste times. The order supposed to be replaced is taking too long, requested to cancel order. Customer service reps need to listen what customer is saying instead of just taking calls. Really really unsatisfied with the whole process involved for 2 months for order to be completed! If you have over a month to receive your item, and have lots of patience and time then go ahead and use this web order process.

Tip for consumers:
No, do not use unless you have months to get your ordered item and have lots of patience with customer care.

Products used:
5 mile flash light, door mat

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Value
Shipping
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Quality
Thumbnail of user liliass
Michigan
1 review
5 helpful votes
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December 10th, 2019

I have called multiple times since september 2019 asking for the rest of my refund $19.37. I am so done with empty promises. I am unsubscribing from everything hammacher schlemmer offers. Will never buy another thing from them.

Thumbnail of user micheleb1027
Pennsylvania
1 review
1 helpful vote
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October 10th, 2023

If you Google shop the products in their magazine, you will find them elsewhere for 1/3 the price!
Additionally, everything is noted as 'the best..." The two items I purchased, were far from it. Not quality.
My suggestion, Google shop that product first. What you will discover will make you instantly trash that magazine.

Products used:
Small remote helicopters and sleep mask.

Value
Quality
Thumbnail of user goobleema219
New York
1 review
2 helpful votes
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April 26th, 2023

Hammacher is a horrible company! I ordered an item from them-an epilator from them. After waiting more than a week, I called them. Customer service told me that the item could not be delivered by the delivery company and was returned to them. But they never informed me, and had the nerve to keep my money!

Service
Shipping
Thumbnail of user garmanp
California
2 reviews
3 helpful votes
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November 26th, 2021

Bought slippers, but product was sent to my old address. Post office charged me $25 postage to forward package to correct address, and HS promised to credit me $25. But when I tried to order another product 3 months later, no credit existed. Called to complain, and HS said they would send me a check. That was 3 weeks ago and still no check.

I don't recommend purchasing anything from Hammacher Schlemmer.

Tip for consumers:
That they have terrible customer service.

Products used:
None

Service
Shipping
Returns
Thumbnail of user herbs36
California
1 review
4 helpful votes
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April 12th, 2021

I ordered an item and paid for it and gift wrapping ($7.00). When the item came it was not wrapped.
I attempted to contact them by phone for a refund on the wrapping. I was held online with a machine for 10 minutes and the pre-prepared message rolled over to another than someone would contact me in 5 days... thes is day 7.

Thumbnail of user gerrik12
Georgia
1 review
2 helpful votes
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March 3rd, 2022

Ordered the Charlie Brown Christmas Tree. When I received, several items were broken. I notified the Company right away and sent the tree back the next day for a refund. The Company acknowledges they received tree back and have promised 6 times a refund is being issued. Here we are in March and still no credit. Unbelievable! Do not buy from this Company!

Thumbnail of user srg1
California
4 reviews
5 helpful votes
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November 6th, 2022
Verified purchase

Bought a gift certificate, they sent an email and mailed the number in an unsealed envelope. Used within a week and it was an invalid number. Service doesn't respond to multiple e-mails and the phone number they give is anther scam designed to get you to buy more and redirect you from service. Out a big chunk of money.

Thumbnail of user thomasd1565
Canada
1 review
5 helpful votes
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November 19th, 2021

Ordered a tree Oct. 19th-so far have received half a tree. No one is able to tell us where the other half is-repeated inquiries have given us many contradictory answers. It is impossible to speak to anyone-- Customer service is terrible. We are now demanding a full refund. Do not buy from this company

Products used:
Christmas tree

Service
Value
Shipping
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Thumbnail of user aliceg381
New Hampshire
2 reviews
2 helpful votes
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July 21st, 2022

I bought the 6000 BTU Quiet AC ******* and I found it doesn't cool at all enough. All the cool air goes up at the window and doesn't reach me about 12.5 feet away. It can be quiet, but that is not the most important thing I was looking for. I'm sweating in my Living Room. I had to take out my fan to help keep me cool I give it 2 Stars.

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