How do Target Order Pickup and Drive Up work? In short, you buy online, choose your store, and wait for a ready notification. With Order Pickup you collect inside, and with Drive Up a team member brings it to your car. Exact features and timing vary by store, so check what's offered at your location.
Order Pickup at a Glance
Order Pickup is the classic buy-online, grab-in-store flow. You place an order through the app or website, pick your store, and get a message when it's ready, often the same day for in-stock items. When you arrive, you head to the pickup area inside and check in. It's handy when you want something quickly without browsing the aisles.
- Shop online and select your preferred store at checkout.
- Wait for the "ready for pickup" notification before heading over.
- Go to the in-store pickup counter and check in when you arrive.
- Bring your order details or confirmation so staff can find it fast.
How Drive Up Works
Drive Up takes the convenience a step further by bringing your order out to the parking lot. After your order is marked ready, you drive to the store, park in a designated Drive Up spot, and let them know you've arrived through the app. A team member then loads it into your car, often into the trunk, so you never have to step inside.
Getting Set Up
Both services generally run through the store's app, which is where you place the order, get status updates, and check in on arrival. It helps to have the app installed and your account ready before your first trip. Availability can differ by store, and not every item qualifies for every pickup method, so confirm the options at your location as you order.
- Install the store app and sign in before your first order.
- Confirm which pickup methods your chosen store supports.
- Check that your items qualify for pickup or Drive Up.
- Have your car and payment details ready to speed up arrival.
Timing and Ready Notifications
Prep time depends on stock, store volume, and time of day. Many in-stock orders are ready within a couple of hours, but busy periods and large orders can take longer, so it's best to wait for the ready notification rather than the estimated time. Heading over before your order is confirmed ready can mean waiting in the lot.
Tips for a Smooth Pickup
A few small habits make pickup effortless. Keep the app open as you arrive so check-in is quick, park in the marked spot rather than a regular space, and double-check your order in the app before leaving the lot. If something's missing or wrong, it's easiest to sort out right there with a team member.
Text Karpo before you head out — it'll check who's actually open right now, remember the spots you love, and save you the endless searching.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between Order Pickup and Drive Up?
With Order Pickup you collect your order inside the store at the pickup counter. With Drive Up, a team member brings it out to your car in the parking lot. Both start with an online order, and available services vary by store.
How long does it take for an order to be ready?
Many in-stock orders are ready within a couple of hours, but busy times and larger orders can take longer. Wait for the ready notification before heading over rather than assuming a set time, since prep can vary by store and demand.
