Fastenal is a distributor of fasteners, tools, and industrial supplies for businesses and contractors

Fastenal is a publicly traded company that sells fasteners (bolts, screws, nuts, washers), hand tools, power tools, safety equipment, and other supplies used in manufacturing, construction, maintenance, and repair work. The company operates through a network of physical stores and an online ordering system. You can buy from Fastenal whether you work for a large manufacturer, run a small contracting business, or work as an independent tradesperson.

The company was founded in 1967 and is headquartered in Winona, Minnesota. Fastenal operates more than 3,000 locations across North America and internationally. Most locations are staffed stores where you can walk in, order over the counter, or place orders for pickup or delivery. You can also order online through their website and have items shipped or picked up at a nearby location.

Key Takeaways

  • Fastenal sells fasteners, hand tools, power tools, safety gear, and maintenance supplies primarily to businesses and contractors rather than consumers.
  • You can purchase from Fastenal through physical store locations, online ordering, or by phone, with options for same-day pickup or delivery depending on your location.
  • Fastenal offers account-based purchasing for businesses, which allows credit terms, volume pricing, and consolidated billing across multiple locations.
  • The company stocks both name-brand products and its own private-label fasteners and tools, giving you options at different price points.

How to buy from Fastenal

You can purchase from Fastenal in three main ways: visiting a store in person, ordering online through their website, or calling a store directly to place an order. If you visit a store, staff can help you locate items, answer questions about specifications, and process your purchase on the spot. Many locations offer same-day pickup if you order before a certain time in the afternoon.

Online ordering through Fastenal.com lets you browse their full catalog, check local inventory, and arrange delivery or pickup. You create an account, add items to a cart, and choose your delivery method. For businesses that make frequent purchases, Fastenal offers account setup with credit terms, which means you can order and pay later rather than paying at the time of purchase.

If you prefer to speak with someone, you can call your local Fastenal store or their customer service line. Store staff can check inventory, answer product questions, and process orders over the phone for pickup or delivery.

Types of products Fastenal carries

Fastenal's core product line is fasteners: bolts, screws, nuts, washers, rivets, and anchors in various materials (steel, stainless steel, brass) and sizes. These items make up a large portion of their inventory and are stocked in most locations.

Beyond fasteners, Fastenal stocks hand tools (wrenches, screwdrivers, pliers, hammers), power tools (drills, saws, grinders), safety equipment (hard hats, gloves, eye protection, respirators), and maintenance supplies (lubricants, cleaning products, adhesives). They also carry electrical supplies, hydraulic components, and items for specific trades like plumbing and HVAC work.

Fastenal carries both established brands and its own private-label products. Their private-label fasteners and tools are typically less expensive than name brands but meet the same specifications and standards. You can choose based on your budget and preference.

Pricing and account options for businesses

Fastenal's prices vary by product, location, and volume. Walk-in customers pay standard retail prices. Businesses that set up an account may receive volume discounts if they purchase large quantities regularly. The discount structure depends on your purchase history and the products you buy.

Business accounts allow you to establish credit terms, meaning you can order now and pay later on a set schedule (typically net 30 days, though terms vary). This is useful if you need to manage cash flow or if your business bills customers after completing work. Accounts also provide consolidated billing if you have multiple locations or departments ordering from different Fastenal stores.

To set up a business account, you contact Fastenal directly with information about your company, the types of products you need, and your expected purchase volume. A Fastenal representative will discuss pricing and terms with you.

Delivery and pickup options

Fastenal offers several ways to receive your order. Same-day or next-day pickup is available at most locations if you order before the store's cutoff time. You can also arrange for delivery to your job site, warehouse, or office. Delivery speed and cost depend on your location and the size of your order.

For large orders or regular deliveries, Fastenal can arrange scheduled delivery routes, meaning a truck visits your location on a set day each week or month. This is common for manufacturing plants and large contractors who need consistent supply replenishment.

Shipping costs are calculated based on distance, order size, and delivery method. Some accounts may have access to for free or reduced-cost delivery depending on their purchase volume or location.

Finding a Fastenal location near you

You can locate a Fastenal store using their store locator tool on Fastenal.com. Enter your zip code or city, and the tool shows nearby locations, hours, phone numbers, and available services. Most stores are open during standard business hours, though some locations have extended hours or weekend availability.

If no store is near you, you can still order online for delivery. Fastenal ships to most addresses in the United States and Canada, though delivery times and costs vary by location.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a business account to shop at Fastenal?

No. You can walk into any Fastenal store and purchase items as a walk-in customer, paying at the register. A business account is optional and is most useful if you make frequent purchases and want credit terms or volume discounts.

Can I return items to Fastenal?

Fastenal accepts returns of unused, unopened items within a set timeframe (typically 30 days). Return policies may vary by location and product type. Contact your local store or check their website for specific return procedures and any restocking fees.

Does Fastenal offer bulk pricing?

Yes. Businesses that purchase large quantities regularly can negotiate volume discounts through a business account. The discount depends on what you buy and how much you order. Contact Fastenal to discuss your needs and get a pricing quote.

Can I order Fastenal products online and pick them up in store?

Yes. You can order online through Fastenal.com, select a nearby store for pickup, and collect your order when it's ready. Most locations offer same-day pickup if you order before their afternoon cutoff time.