Ever placed an online order for in-store pickup, only to wonder how long you really have before it's sent back? When it comes to Academy Sports + Outdoors, you've got a pretty clear window, but knowing the specifics can save you a trip or a headache!
Let's dive into everything you need to know about picking up your Academy Sports order, from the moment you click "buy" to what happens if you can't make it in time.
Step 1: Placing Your Order – The Excitement Begins!
So, you've found that perfect piece of gear, those new running shoes, or the camping equipment you've been eyeing. The first step is, of course, placing your order online.
Selecting "Free Store Pick Up"
When checking out on Academy.com, you'll want to select the "Free Store Pick Up" option. This is key! Make sure you've chosen the correct store location that's most convenient for you.
Confirmation is Key
After your order is placed, you'll receive a confirmation. This usually comes via email, text message, or even a mobile app notification if you have the Academy Sports app. This initial confirmation simply means your order has been received. It doesn't mean it's ready for pickup yet!
Step 2: The "Ready for Pickup" Notification – Your Green Light!
This is the notification you've been waiting for! Academy Sports aims to get most online orders ready for pickup in as little as one hour. However, if you place an order within two hours of the selected store closing, it will likely be ready the next day.
What to Look For
You'll receive a separate notification (email, text, or app alert) specifically stating that your order is "Ready for Pick Up." This is your official cue that your items are waiting for you at the store.
Step 3: Understanding the Pickup Window – How Long Do You Really Have? ⏳
Once you receive that "Ready for Pick Up" notification, the clock starts ticking.
The 5-Day Rule
Academy Sports + Outdoors generally holds your items for 5 days after you receive the "Ready for Pick Up" notification. This gives you a decent window to arrange your schedule and head to the store.
Important Note:
While the official policy states 5 days, it's always a good idea to pick up your order as soon as possible once you receive the "ready" notification. This ensures your items are there and reduces any potential for mix-ups, especially during busy periods.
Step 4: What to Bring for Pickup – Be Prepared! ✅
To ensure a smooth and quick pickup process, have the following items ready:
Your Order Pick Up Notification
This can be the email, text message, or app notification that confirms your order is ready. It will contain important details like your order number.
Valid U.S. Government-Issued ID
This is crucial for verification. Acceptable forms of ID include:
Driver's License
State-issued ID card
Passport
U.S. Military ID
U.S. Permanent Resident Card
U.S. Laser Visa
Matricula Consular
Canadian Province identification
Picking Up on Behalf of Someone Else?
If someone else will be picking up your order for you, you can designate an alternate pick-up person during the checkout process. That person must then present their valid government-issued ID and the order number. You can also change the alternate pick-up person later through your myAcademy account on the mobile app.
Step 5: The Pickup Process – In-Store or Curbside!
Academy Sports offers two convenient ways to pick up your order.
In-Store Pick Up
Head to your chosen store and look for the designated pick-up sign at the checkout counter. Often, you can skip the regular checkout line and go directly to this counter. Present your pick-up notification and ID to a team member, and they'll retrieve your order.
Curbside Pick Up
If available for your items (some larger or restricted items may require in-store pickup), you can opt for curbside.
Park in or near the designated Curbside parking spaces.
Open your pick-up notification on your mobile device.
Tap the Curbside link to let the store know you've arrived.
A team member will bring your order out to your vehicle.
Step 6: What Happens If You Don't Pick Up Your Order?
Life happens, and sometimes picking up an order within the timeframe isn't possible.
Automatic Cancellation
If you do not pick up your order within the 5-day window, Academy Sports will automatically cancel it.
No Charge for Unpicked Orders
The good news is that your credit card will not be charged for orders that are automatically canceled due due to non-pickup. Academy Sports typically processes your debit or credit card for payment authorization when you place the order, but they do not charge your form of payment until you actually pick up your order at the store. If the order is canceled, the authorization will be voided.
What if I still want the item?
If your order is canceled due to non-pickup, you'll need to place a new order for the items if you still wish to purchase them.
Step 7: Managing Your Order – Flexibility and Support
Academy Sports provides options to manage your order if your plans change.
Changing Pick-Up Location
You can often change your pick-up location by accessing your order through the "Track Order" self-service option on Academy.com or in your myAcademy account. Look for an "Edit" button next to your order details.
Canceling Your Order
If you decide you no longer need the items, you can cancel your in-store pick-up order. Sign into your myAcademy account or use the mobile app, go to your order history, and look for the "Cancel Order" option. You can also contact their Customer Care team via live chat or phone. It's best to cancel if you know you won't pick it up to free up the inventory.
Customer Care Assistance
If you have any questions or run into issues with your order, Academy Sports' Customer Care team can assist you via live chat or phone (1-888-922-2336).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How to Check the Status of My Academy Sports Order?
You can check your order status by going to the "Track Orders & Purchases" page on Academy.com and entering the email you used for the order and your order number.
How to Change the Pick Up Person for My Academy Sports Order?
You can change the alternate pick-up person through your myAcademy account using the mobile app by finding your order under "Purchases" and selecting "Change Alternate Pick Up Person."
How to Change My Academy Sports Pick Up Location?
Access your order via the "Track Order" self-service option or your myAcademy account, and if eligible, you can use the "Edit" button to update the pick-up location.
How to Cancel My Academy Sports In-Store Pick Up Order?
Log into your myAcademy account or the mobile app, find your order in your order history, and click "Cancel Order" in the order details, or contact Customer Care.
How to Know When My Academy Sports Order is Ready?
Academy Sports will send you an email, text message, or app notification specifically stating that your order is "Ready for Pick Up."
How to Return an Academy Sports In-Store Pick Up Order?
All returns for in-store pick up orders must be made in-store. Simply bring the items and your pick-up notification/receipt to any Academy Sports store.
How to Get a Refund if I Don't Pick Up My Academy Sports Order?
If you don't pick up your order within 5 days, it will be automatically canceled, and you will not be charged. Any pending authorization on your card will be voided.
How to Contact Academy Sports Customer Service for Pick Up Orders?
You can contact Academy Sports Customer Care via live chat on their website or by calling 1-888-922-2336.
How to Ensure My Academy Sports Order isn't Canceled Prematurely?
The best way is to pick it up within the 5-day window. If you foresee a delay, contacting the store directly might allow them to make a note, though extensions are at their discretion.
How to Find Curbside Pick Up at Academy Sports?
Look for designated curbside parking spaces at the store. Once parked, use the link in your "Ready for Pick Up" notification to alert the store of your arrival.
