Northern Tool + Equipment (often called Northern Tool) is a family-owned supplier of power tools and equipment founded in 1981. Headquartered in Burnsville, Minnesota, this retailer stocks over 100,000 products across hundreds of categories. From heavy-duty generators and trailers to hand tools and accessories, Northern Tool’s selection serves serious DIYers and pros alike. Throughout the year, the company runs special deals – on its website and in stores – that can greatly boost your project budget. In this guide, we explain how to find and use Northern Tool deals (coupons, catalogs, clearance, memberships, etc.) so you get the best equipment at the lowest cost.
Why Northern Tool Is a Top Choice for Equipment
Northern Tool has built a reputation on quality, selection, and support. Key advantages include:
- Rugged, Reliable Equipment: Northern Tool emphasizes gear made for serious work. Many products (such as generators, compressors, and drills) come with warranties and repair support. As one tech blog notes, “the retailer emphasizes rugged, reliable gear,” with top brands (Milwaukee, STIHL, Honda) and in-house lines rigorously tested for durability. You can buy with confidence that your tools are built to last.
- Expert Customer Support: Store staff and online customer service are highly trained. Northern Tool has been recognized as a “Top Workplaces” for its knowledgeable team. Whether shopping in-store or online, you can get expert advice on choosing the right tool for your job. For example, store associates can help match a generator or trailer to your needs, and customer care (1-800-222-5381) is available extended hours if you need help after checkout.
- Flexible Shopping Options: Shop in whatever way you prefer. Northern Tool offers online ordering, curbside pickup, and nationwide shipping. You can also browse printed catalogs (mailed several times per year) or their online catalog. The website’s store locator (search by ZIP or city) helps you find a branch in your area (just search “Northern Tool near me”). This omni-channel approach means you can combine online coupons with in-store deals (e.g. ordering online and picking up curbside qualifies for member free shipping credit).
- Top Brands & Exclusive Lines: Northern Tool carries both leading manufacturers (Stihl, DeWalt, Makita, etc.) and its own private-label brands (NorthStar generators, Powerhorse equipment, Klutch hand tools, Ironton accessories, Ultra-Tow trailers, etc.). These in-house lines are designed for quality and value, backed by the same warranties as national brands. For example, NorthStar generators and Ultra-Tow trailers give you affordable options without sacrificing performance.
All together, these strengths make Northern Tool a one-stop shop for projects big and small. By shopping smart (using deals and discounts), you’ll get durable equipment for less.
Unbeatable Deals & Savings Tactics
Northern Tool makes it easy to save on equipment. Important ways to find deals include:
- Join the Advantage Membership: For $39.99/year, the Northern Tool Advantage program pays off. Members get free standard shipping on almost all orders (huge for heavy items like generators or trailers), plus exclusive coupons and catalogs. Northern Tool even sends a $25 gift card each year when you renew. In practice, frequent shoppers find the member perks quickly cover the fee. As one coupon site notes, “frequent customers should consider joining” for members-only discounts and free shipping.
- Use Coupons & Promo Codes: Search online or sign up for their newsletter. New email subscribers usually get a $5-off coupon for their first order. You can also check deal sites (Savings.com, RetailMeNot, etc.) for codes like “$5OFF25” or percentage-off promotions. At checkout, enter any valid code in the “Promo Code” field – it will immediately apply a discount. Stack coupons with sale prices whenever possible. For example, applying a 10% off code to an already-marked-down item gets you extra savings.
- Browse Clearance & Sales Sections: NorthernTool.com’s Deals page lists clearance items (often 20% or more off) and seasonal promotions. Thousands of products – from air compressors to workwear – may be on sale at any time. The clearance section frequently features reconditioned equipment at deep discounts. Bookmark the “Daily Deals” page, too; it highlights 24-hour specials on top items. One source notes you can “score huge discounts on generators, pressure washers, hand tools, and tons more” when shopping Northern’s Daily Deals. Keep checking regularly, since new deals appear often.
- Check Rebates & Special Offers: Many products carry manufacturer rebates (cash-back) or come in special bundles. Visit the “Rebates + Special Offers” page on NorthernTool.com for current cash-back deals or free gift card offers on select items. During major holidays or product launches, you might get bonus gift cards or free accessories. For example, Northern Tool sometimes offers a free $25 gift card on orders over $250, or limited-time percentage-off coupons.
- Combine Seasonal Sales: Major sales events (Black Friday, New Year clearance, Spring sales, etc.) often include site-wide discounts plus stackable coupons. Plan big purchases around these times. For instance, Northern Tool might run a 15% off site-wide sale during a holiday; if you apply an extra 10% off code on top, you’ll save even more. Timing your order can make a big difference.
- Military and Email Discounts: Active-duty military and veterans get 10% off in-store. Everyone can benefit from signing up for email alerts: subscribers regularly receive special coupons (often 5–10% off one order) and early notice of sales.
By combining these tactics – membership perks, coupons, and sales – savvy shoppers often save 30–40% (or more) on their Northern Tool purchases. For example, using a $20-off-$100 coupon on an item already 20% off can net well over a one-third reduction.
Major Northern Tool Product Categories
Northern Tool truly has it all for your projects. Their vast catalog lets you outfit an entire job site from one source. Here are some key categories with typical deals:
Alt: Set of metal wrenches arranged on a dark background, illustrating a variety of hand tools. Northern Tool’s Power & Hand Tools section includes thousands of items – drills, saws, impact drivers, wrenches, hammers and more. The store stocks top brands (Milwaukee, DeWalt, Makita, etc.) alongside its own hand-tool lines (Klutch, Ironton). Look for bundle deals and seasonal discounts on these essentials. For example, multi-piece drill/driver kits and tool sets often go on sale or have promo codes, so you can gear up your workshop affordably. Many high-end power tools appear in clearance events or daily deals, giving you premium performance for much less.
The Generators & Air Compressors category covers everything from portable generators to large industrial air systems. Northern Tool sells major brands like Honda and Champion as well as its house-brand NorthStar models. These heavy-duty machines are often featured in spring/fall promotions (think storm-prep season). Keep an eye on coupons for generator purchases: combining a rebate with a promo code can shave hundreds off the price. Similarly, air compressors (and compressor/gun combo deals) go on sale periodically, especially in summer (garage-cleanout events) and winter (off-season for painting gear).
The Trailers & Towing section includes utility and equipment trailers by Ultra-Tow, Carry-On, DK2, and more. Trailers are big-ticket items, so even a small percentage discount can mean big dollar savings. Northern Tool often runs sitewide percent-off deals on trailers or offers rebates. For example, their Ultra-Tow flatbed trailers might be 10–15% off during a sale event. Before buying, compare with local dealer prices – you’ll often find Northern Tool’s promo bundles (like free shipping or gift cards) undercutting competitors.
Outdoor Equipment covers log splitters, pressure washers, lawn mowers, snowblowers, etc. These are highly seasonal. Northern Tool regularly clears out off-season gear – e.g. snowblowers in spring or mowers in late fall – with discounts sometimes exceeding 50%. Log splitters and wood chipper deals pop up in fall as well. If you need outdoor power tools, it pays to monitor these categories year-round. Clearance sales and coupons can result in huge discounts (often 20–60% off) on items like chain saws or snowthrowers.
Other categories like Welding & Metalworking, Automotive/Garage Equipment (lifts, jacks, tire changers), and Material Handling (forklifts, hoists, lifts) are also well-stocked. Welding machines, battery systems and shop gear often come with rebates or kit deals. Heavy items tend to qualify for free shipping (see below) or extra coupons. In short: no matter what equipment you need – power tools, trailers, generators, or shop machinery – Northern Tool likely has it, and many of these core products regularly appear in sales or coupon programs.
(Shopping Tip: Use Northern Tool’s website filters like “On Sale” or “Free Shipping” to quickly find discounted items. You can also search the site for a category plus “coupon” – for example, search for “Northern Tool generators coupon” – to uncover deal round-ups and promo codes.)
Finding Northern Tool Stores and “Near Me” Options
Northern Tool maintains a large retail network (about 130 stores nationwide as of 2025). This means you can often combine online deals with an in-person visit. Key points:
- Store Locator: Go to NorthernTool.com and enter your ZIP or city to find the closest store, or simply Google “Northern Tool near me”. The results will show nearby locations, store hours and any current local ads. Visiting a store can be handy to see products in person before buying.
- In-Store Deals & Pickup: Many promotions (like gift cards or membership coupons) are valid in-store as well as online. For example, local stores may honor the $25 gift card on a $250 purchase promotion, and weekly ads often have store-specific specials (open-box items, extra clearance discounts). You can also order online and pick up curbside at your local branch – this still qualifies for Advantage member free shipping credit. It’s a great way to avoid shipping costs.
- Local Ads: Each store publishes a weekly ad (accessible via the store locator page or in print). These ads can feature exclusive deals not on the main site. Before heading out, check your store’s current ad for any in-store promotions or “special buy” items.
By using the store finder and watching local ads, you ensure you don’t miss extra savings – even if you primarily shop online. And if you prefer hands-on shopping, you can combine a brick-and-mortar visit with online coupons and member perks.
Tips for Using Coupons, Catalogs & Promos
To squeeze out maximum savings, mix and match deals strategically:
- Printed & Digital Catalogs: Northern Tool mails out printed catalogs a few times a year, packed with exclusive coupons and showcase deals. You can request a free copy from their website or pick one up in-store. These catalogs sometimes hide special promo codes inside. There are also digital versions of the seasonal catalog and weekly ads on NorthernTool.com; browsing these online editions ahead of time helps you plan purchases.
- Email Alerts: Join Northern Tool’s email list. You’ll typically get a welcome coupon (often $5 off) and regular deal alerts via newsletter. Emails often announce flash sales, free shipping promotions, or site-wide discounts. The real-time notice can let you jump on deals the moment they start.
- Combine Offers: Coupons can be stacked with sale prices. For instance, if an item is 20% off in clearance, you can usually still apply a valid coupon or rebate on top. Advantage members can also tack on their free-shipping credit. We’ve seen shoppers effectively “earn back” their membership fee by combining the $25 gift card and free shipping on their first big order. Always try applying a coupon code at checkout – even entering a small code like 5% off or $5 off can trim the total substantially.
- Watch for Promo Codes: Keep an eye on Northern Tool’s social media or coupon forums. Occasionally, the company drops single-use or time-limited codes. (Always verify any code on the official site.) The key is: never pay full price if a coupon is available. Even a modest code means extra savings.
By integrating printed coupons, online catalogs, member vouchers and promos, you’ll often end up paying far less than list price. For example, one smart shopper applied a $20-off-$100 coupon on top of a 20%-off sale price, yielding over 35% off the normal cost. With a little planning, stacking discounts really boosts your budget.
Superior Customer Service & Support
Northern Tool prides itself on post-sale support:
- Expert Help: Staff across all stores are well-trained, so you can get knowledgeable advice in person. Northern Tool invests in employee training (it’s been repeatedly voted a Minnesota Top Workplace). Whether you’re a DIY beginner or a contractor, the team is there to assist.
- Easy Returns & Repairs: Most items can be returned within 60 days in like-new condition (with some restocking fee for opened items). You can return by mail or at any store (with a Return Authorization). Note that fuel-powered equipment cannot be returned once used. Also, Northern Tool offers repair services and sells replacement parts – for example, their website notes “Parts. Service. Repair. Small Engine Pros.”. This means ongoing support if a tool ever needs fixing.
- Multiple Contact Options: If you need help, Northern Tool provides several ways to reach them. Call customer care at 1-800-222-5381 (Mon–Fri 7am–7pm CT; Sat–Sun 8am–5pm CT). Live chat and text support are also available on NorthernTool.com for quick questions. With phone, chat, email and in-store help, you won’t be left hanging if there’s an issue with an order or product.
Excellent support means less stress for your projects – you know help is available long after purchase.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Q: How does the Northern Advantage Membership work?
A: For an annual fee of $39.99, the Advantage Membership gives free standard UPS/FedEx ground shipping on nearly all orders, plus exclusive coupons and catalogs. Members receive a $25 gift card each year they renew. The membership even has a 6-month money-back guarantee if you’re unsatisfied. In short: if you order tools multiple times a year, the free shipping and gift card alone can cover the fee. - Q: How can I find Northern Tool coupons and promo codes?
A: Sign up for Northern Tool’s email list to get a $5-off coupon for your first order. After that, you can look for codes by searching “Northern Tool coupon” or “Northern Tool promo code” on savings sites (e.g. Savings.com, DealCatcher). These sites list current offers (like dollar-off or percent-off deals). When you find a code, copy it and enter it in the “Promo Code” field at checkout. If it’s valid, your total will immediately reflect the discount. - Q: Where can I find Northern Tool store locations?
A: Northern Tool has about 130 stores nationwide. To find the closest one, use the Store Locator on NorthernTool.com by entering your ZIP code or city. You can also simply search Google for “Northern Tool and Equipment near me”. Visiting a store lets you see tools in person and take advantage of any in-store-only promotions. (Note: active-duty U.S. military and veterans usually get a 10% in-store discount.) - Q: Does Northern Tool offer free shipping or discounts?
A: Yes. Many items on NorthernTool.com qualify for Everyday Free Shipping (especially smaller tools and accessories). Advantage Members get free ground shipping on virtually all orders. Northern Tool also runs periodic free-shipping promos on the whole site or specific categories. Always look for a “Free Shipping” label on the product page. Combined with coupons, you can often avoid all shipping fees. - Q: What is Northern Tool’s return policy?
A: Most new, unused items can be returned within 60 days for a refund or exchange. (Some opened items may incur a 15% restocking fee.) Fuel-powered tools and special orders are final sale. Returns must include all original packaging. You can return by shipping back or dropping off at a store with a Return Authorization. If in doubt, contact customer service to confirm the process. - Q: How do I apply coupon codes on my order?
A: During checkout on NorthernTool.com, there is a field labeled “Promo Code” or “Discount Code.” Just paste your coupon code there and click Apply. The discount will appear instantly if the code is valid and meets the terms (minimum purchase, expiration date, etc.). You can usually apply one coupon per order, but you can use a coupon on sale-priced items (unless otherwise specified). Always double-check the code’s restrictions (for example, some coupons are for first-time orders only).
Conclusion
Northern Tool + Equipment provides everything you need to boost your projects – from generators and trailers to drills and hand tools. By leveraging Northern Tool deals (coupons, catalogs, clearance items and the Advantage membership), you can outfit your workshop without overspending. The secret is to combine available savings: sign up for emails, check the Daily Deals and clearance pages regularly, and use promo codes at checkout. Plan big purchases around major sales (Black Friday, New Year clearance) and always apply any coupon or rebate you have.
Ready to start saving? Visit the Northern Tool website to browse today’s offers, or drop by your nearest Northern Tool store to shop in person. Share these tips with friends who do home projects or leave a comment with your best Northern Tool deal– we’d love to hear how these savings helped your builds!