Curbside and in-store pickup are often listed as equivalent options, but they serve different needs. Here's when each makes sense.
Most major retailers now offer both curbside and in-store pickup, and the two options are often listed side by side without much explanation of when to use one versus the other. They're not the same, and choosing correctly can save you time.
How they differ
Curbside pickup means your order is brought to your car in the parking lot. You notify the store when you arrive — usually through an app or a text — and a staff member brings your items out. You don't need to go inside.
In-store pickup means you go inside, typically to a designated counter or service area, and collect your order yourself. It usually requires showing an order confirmation.
When curbside makes more sense
If you have mobility limitations, small children with you, a full car, or simply don't want to navigate a store, curbside is the better choice. It's also typically faster from a total time perspective since you're not walking through the building.
When in-store pickup makes more sense
If you want to inspect the item before leaving — particularly for electronics or anything that might need to be exchanged — going inside gives you that option. In-store pickup also sometimes has a shorter readiness window because staff don't need to coordinate the handoff.
When searching for local pickup options, it's worth checking which method a specific retailer supports. Platforms that aggregate product availability across retailers can show you this information alongside inventory, so you can factor it into your decision.
