Sutherland Hardware in Tulsa: A Shopper’s Guide

Why You Should Visit

• Exceptional Customer Service: You’ll find staff who go above and beyond. One shopper recounted how an employee, Pat, proactively located a hard-to-find item for them. Another experience highlighted a helpful employee who provided knowledgeable assistance with a saw chain replacement. Many reviews praise the friendly and kind staff, noting their helpfulness even with loading heavy items (though this isn’t always consistent, see below).
• Unique Product Selection: The location offers items not found at larger stores like Home Depot or Lowe’s. This includes specific items like grow lights (though their location in the store can be confusing), welded wire at significantly lower prices (a 100′ roll for under $200 compared to $300-$400 elsewhere), wood fence posts, and a good selection of annual plants in spring (though this sells out quickly).
• Competitive Pricing: While some prices are slightly higher than at larger retailers, Sutherland’s often offers cheaper prices on various items. Bulk mulch, in particular, is noted as being the best price in town. Significant savings were reported on 5′ welded wire.
• Convenient for Business Needs: Sutherland’s is described as a one-stop shop for business supplies with easy navigation and minimal wait times.
• Specialized Services: The staff’s expertise extends to skillful loading of bulk materials like mulch into trucks.

Why You Might Consider Alternatives

• Inconsistent Customer Service: Be aware that while many experiences are positive, some shoppers report negative interactions. One customer had difficulty locating grow lights and received unhelpful, vague directions and subsequent inattention from staff. Another experienced aggressive and rude treatment regarding a return policy for a $550 weed eater (note: the return policy wasn’t clarified at the time of purchase).
• Staff Availability: Finding an employee to assist can be challenging. One shopper reported difficulties finding anyone to help load lumber, despite observing employees who seemed idle. Another had trouble getting assistance in the store, even using the assistance button.
• Stock Availability: Expect some items to be out of stock. One shopper noted this issue specifically.
• Return Policy: Be aware that the return policy appears inconsistent and potentially strict. At least one shopper reported difficulty returning a gas-powered product, even with a receipt.
• Store Condition: One long-time customer expresses concern about the store’s condition and the decline in the nursery’s upkeep and customer service compared to previous years.