Sears Roebuck & Co: History, Stores, and What's Available Today

What Sears Roebuck & Co is and where to find it now

Sears Roebuck & Co was once America's largest retailer, operating thousands of stores across the country and running a mail-order catalog business that shaped how Americans shopped for appliances, tools, clothing, and home goods for over a century. The company filed for bankruptcy in 2018, and most stores closed. Today, Sears still operates a limited number of physical locations and an online store, though the footprint is a fraction of what it was at its peak.

In South Carolina, you may find Sears locations in larger cities, though availability changes. The company now focuses primarily on appliances, tools, and home services through its website and remaining stores. If you're looking for a specific appliance or service, checking the Sears website directly or calling ahead to confirm a store is open remains the most reliable approach.

Key Takeaways

• Sears operates fewer than 30 stores nationwide after its 2018 bankruptcy, with limited locations in South Carolina.
• The company sells appliances, tools, and home goods through its website and remaining physical stores.
• Sears offers installation and repair services for appliances through its Home Services division.
• You can check store locations and product availability on Sears.com before visiting or ordering.

Sears stores still operating in South Carolina

Finding an open Sears location in South Carolina requires checking current information, as store closures have continued since the bankruptcy. The company's website lists active locations, and this list changes periodically. Before driving to a store, visit Sears.com and use the store locator tool, or call ahead to confirm hours and what departments are staffed.

Some Sears locations operate as smaller format stores focused on appliances and tools rather than the full-line department stores of the past. This means the selection and services available may differ from what you remember if you shopped at Sears years ago.

Appliances and products Sears carries

Sears sells major appliances including refrigerators, washing machines, dryers, dishwashers, and ranges, primarily under its own Kenmore brand and other national brands. The Kenmore brand is owned by Sears and is sold both in stores and online. You can also find smaller appliances, tools, lawn equipment, and home improvement products.

Availability varies by location and online. The Sears website allows you to browse inventory, check prices, and see which items can be shipped to your address or picked up at a nearby store if one exists in your area. Product selection online is typically broader than in physical stores.

Ordering online and delivery options

Sears.com allows you to order appliances and other products for delivery or, in some cases, for pickup at a store location. Delivery times and shipping costs vary depending on the item and your location. Large appliances like refrigerators and washers typically require scheduled delivery, and Sears offers installation services for an additional cost.

When ordering online, review the delivery details carefully, as some items may take several weeks to arrive. You can track your order through your Sears account. If you have questions about delivery to your specific address in South Carolina, contact Sears customer service through the website or by phone.

Sears Home Services for installation and repair

Sears Home Services handles installation, repair, and maintenance for appliances and other home systems. If you purchase an appliance from Sears, you can arrange installation through this division. They also offer repair services for appliances whether or not you bought them from Sears, though availability depends on your location.

To schedule a service appointment, visit Sears.com, navigate to the Home Services section, or call the number provided with your appliance documentation. Service availability and pricing vary by area in South Carolina. Getting a quote before committing to a repair can help you decide whether to repair an existing appliance or replace it.

Sears credit card and payment options

Sears offers a store credit card that can be used for purchases at Sears locations and on Sears.com. The card may offer promotional financing on large purchases, though terms vary. You can also pay with major credit cards, debit cards, and other standard payment methods.

If you're considering a large appliance purchase, ask about current promotional offers when you shop. These promotions change seasonally and may include deferred interest financing or discounts on specific products. Compare the total cost including any financing charges before deciding.

Warranty and protection plans

Sears offers extended warranty and protection plans on appliances and other products at the time of purchase. These plans cover repairs and sometimes replacement if the item fails after the manufacturer's warranty expires. The cost and coverage details vary by product and plan type.

Before purchasing a protection plan, read what it covers and what it excludes. Some plans cover accidental damage, while others cover only mechanical failure. Compare the plan cost against the price of the appliance itself to decide whether the coverage makes sense for your situation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Sears still in business?

Yes, Sears still operates, though much smaller than before its 2018 bankruptcy. The company runs a website and a limited number of physical stores, primarily focused on appliances, tools, and home services. Most of the large department stores that existed decades ago have closed.

Can I return items bought at Sears?

Sears has a return policy that typically allows returns within a set timeframe with a receipt. Policies for large appliances may differ from smaller items. Check the return policy on Sears.com or ask in-store, as terms can vary by product category and whether the item has been installed or used.

Does Sears deliver to all of South Carolina?

Sears ships to most addresses in South Carolina, but delivery times and costs vary by location and item. Some rural areas may have longer delivery times or higher shipping costs. Enter your zip code on Sears.com when browsing products to see delivery options and costs for your specific address.

What should I do if my Sears appliance breaks?

Contact Sears Home Services to schedule a repair. You can reach them through Sears.com or by phone. If your appliance is still under warranty, the repair may be covered at no cost. If the warranty has expired, you'll receive a repair estimate before work begins.

Where can I find a Sears store near me in South Carolina?

Use the store locator on Sears.com to find current locations and hours. Call ahead to confirm the store is open and has the department or product you're looking for, since some locations operate with limited departments or have reduced hours.