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Published Feb 10, 2026
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Target Drive Up Hours - Pickup Times & Store Availability
Life is busy. Between work deadlines, school runs, and trying to remember when you last vacuumed, who has time to wander through store aisles? That's where Target's Drive Up service swoops in like a superhero for overwhelmed shoppers. I've lost count of how many times this service has saved me from dragging cranky kids through the store or going out in pouring rain for that one essential item.
If you've ever found yourself wondering about Target Drive Up hours or how this whole thing actually works, you're in the right place. Think of this as your friendly, slightly chatty guide to mastering Target's most convenient service. We're going to cover everything from what time does Target Drive Up close to how you can make this service work like magic for your schedule.
What Is Target Drive Up?
Picture this: It's 4 PM, you realize you need snacks for soccer practice, toothpaste, and a birthday gift for a party this weekend. The thought of parking, herding kids through the store, and waiting in line makes you want to hide under the covers. Enter Target app Drive Up – your new best friend for Target same-day pickup.
This free service lets you shop from your phone and have your goodies delivered to your car, usually without ever unbuckling your seatbelt. It's the ultimate in Target curbside convenience – like having a personal shopper, but without the fancy price tag. And you can do all this while sitting in your driveway or during your lunch break at work.
This isn't just a random perk; it's a core part of Target's strategy. In fact, on an August 22nd earnings call, incoming CEO Michael Fiddelke highlighted the company's "Built to Fulfill" strategy, where stores with large backrooms are being optimized to handle digital orders efficiently, while others focus on the in-store and Drive-Up experience. This corporate focus means the service is designed for reliability and speed.
How the Drive Up Service Works
Let me walk you through how does Target Drive Up work, based on my many (many) experiences:
- Shop in the App: Open your Target app and look for the "Drive Up" label on products. It's like having the entire store in your pocket. I've ordered everything from milk and bread to patio furniture this way.
- Check Out: Pay through the app—they accept all the usual payment methods, plus you can apply those Target Circle offers we all love.
- Wait for the "Ready" Text: This is my favorite part. You get to go about your day while Target's amazing employees gather your items. The Target Drive Up order ready time is usually within 2 hours, but I've received orders in as little as 30 minutes.
- Head to the Store: When you're on your way, tap "I'm on my way" in the app. This gives the store a heads-up.
- Park and Tap: Pull into those special Drive Up spots (they're usually bright orange and right near the entrance), then tap "I'm here" in the app.
- Magic Happens: Within minutes a cheerful Target employee appears with your order. They'll verify everything and load your items into your car.
Difference Between Drive Up and Order Pickup
Now, I know this can be confusing – Target actually offers two ways to pick up your online orders. Here's the real-world difference:
Drive Up is the luxury Target curbside convenience. You stay in your car, someone brings everything to you, and you can even add Starbucks to your order at some locations. It's perfect for rainy days, when you have sleeping kids in the back, or when you're just having one of those "I can't even" days. It's particularly ideal for inclement weather, when you have sleeping children in the backseat, or whenever you need a truly effortless shopping solution during operating Target curbside pickup hours.
Order Pickup means you walk into the store to the Guest Services desk. It's still convenient, but you have to park and go inside. I use this when I need something same-day but also want to quickly browse the dollar section (we all know how that goes).
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Target Drive Up Hours Explained
Okay, let's get to the question that probably brought you here: When does Target Drive Up close?
Typical Drive-Up Hours Across Most Locations
Most Target stores follow pretty standard Target store hours – they typically open at 8:00 AM and close at 10:00 PM, and Drive Up Target hours are available during all those hours. That means you can theoretically place an order at 7 AM for pickup when they open at what time does Target Drive Up open (8 AM), or swing by at 9:45 PM wondering how late is Target Drive Up open at your location.
I've personally used Drive Up at all sorts of times – early morning before work, late evening after my kid's baseball practice, and everything in between. The consistency is really helpful when you're trying to plan your week and need to know what time does Target pick up close each day.
Variations by Store and Region
Now, here's where it gets a little tricky. Not all Targets are created equal when it comes to Target curbside hours. The Target in my hometown has different hours than the one near my sister's house, which threw me off the first time I visited her and wondered what time does Target curbside close at her location.
Urban locations might stay open later, while smaller format stores in cities might have slightly reduced hours. Some stores in shopping centers with strict noise ordinances might not offer early morning or late evening Drive Up service, affecting how late does Target do Drive Up at those specific locations.
During the holiday madness, many locations extend their hours as part of Target holiday hours. I've seen stores open from 7 AM until midnight in December, which is perfect for those last-minute gift pickups without dealing with the crowded parking lot.
How to Check Your Local Target Drive Up Schedule
Here's my pro tip for avoiding disappointment: always double-check your specific Target Drive Up schedule using the Target app Drive Up feature. Just open it, select your store, and the hours will be right there at the top.
If you're searching for "Target Drive Up near me" or "what time does Target pickup close today", the app gives you the most accurate, real-time information about drive up target hours at your preferred location. I also recommend saving your local Target's number in your phone. One time during a snowstorm, I called ahead to make sure they were still doing Drive Up orders, and the employee was incredibly helpful in confirming what time does Target stop Drive Up that evening.
How to Use Target Drive Up Service
Ready to become a Drive Up pro? Let me walk you through the process with all the little tips I've picked up along the way.
Step-by-Step Guide to Placing an Order
Placing your first Drive Up order can feel a little intimidating, but I promise it's easier than assembling IKEA furniture:
- Open That Target App: If you don't have it yet, download it—it's free and honestly one of the most useful apps on my phone.
- Find Your Items: Search for what you need. I love that you can filter by "Drive Up" items only, so you know everything you're adding to your cart is available for Target same-day pickup.
- Check Substitution Preferences: This is important! If something's out of stock, do you want them to find something similar? I usually say yes, because Target employees have surprisingly good judgment.
- Check Out: Apply any Target Circle offers (because saving money feels almost as good as not having to park and walk inside).
- Wait for the Magic Text: I usually get the "your order is ready" text within the typical Target curbside pickup time of 1-2 hours.
Notification and Pickup Process
The pickup process is where Drive Up really shines. Here's what to expect:
After you get the "ready" notification, you can head to the store. I always tap "I'm on my way" about 10 minutes out – it feels like texting a friend to let them know you're coming over. When you arrive, those Drive Up spots are usually impossible to miss. After you tap "I'm here," the wait begins. I've started timing it out of curiosity, and it's rarely more than 3 minutes. It's just enough time to reply to a text or find the perfect podcast for the drive home.
What You Need to Bring for Pickup
Here's the beautiful part: you don't need much! Just your phone with the Target app. The employee will scan the barcode that pops up when you check in.
I always have my ID handy just in case, but I've only been asked for it once, when there was an issue with the app loading. You don't need your payment card since everything's already paid for.
Can You Use Drive Up After Store Hours?
This is a question I see popping up a lot in mom groups and neighborhood chats. Let me give you the real scoop about what time does Drive Up close at Target and those late-night pickup possibilities.
Store Policies and Restrictions
Unfortunately, Drive Up hours Target end when the store closes. Those hardworking Target employees need to go home to their families too.
The app won't even let you check in once the store is closed, which is actually helpful – it saves you a trip for nothing. Your order will be waiting safely inside until the store reopens the next morning.
Tips for Late or Early Pickups
If you're cutting it close to closing time, here's what I've learned:
- Set a phone reminder! I now have a recurring alert that says "Target closes at 10!" on days I have Drive Up orders.
- The app will send you increasingly urgent reminders as closing time approaches if you're wondering how late is Target Drive Up open at your location.
- Morning pickups are surprisingly smooth. I've swung by right at what time does. Target Drive Up open (usually 8 AM) on my way to work, and there's usually no wait at all.
Holidays and Special Hours
Holidays can throw everything off, including your Target runs. Here's what I've figured out about Target holiday hours and Target weekend pickup times over the years.
Target Drive Up Hours on Holidays
Most major holidays follow a similar pattern:
- Easter, Thanksgiving, and Christmas: The store is completely closed. Yes, even for Drive Up. Plan ahead!
- Black Friday: They open crazy early (like 6 AM) and Drive Up is available, but expect longer wait times.
- Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve: Stores close early, so check those app hours carefully if you're wondering what time does Target curbside close on those days.
I made the mistake of not planning ahead one Thanksgiving week and had to get creative with side dishes. Now I place my holiday grocery orders at least three days in advance.
Weekend and Seasonal Schedule Differences
Target Drive Up pickup hours on weekend follow the same schedule as weekdays, but expect more volume. Sunday afternoons seem to be the busiest in my experience, which might affect how late is Target pickup open during peak times.
During back-to-school season and December holidays, expect more cars in the Drive Up spots and allow extra time for order preparation. I've found that placing orders first thing in the morning during these busy seasons means faster fulfillment.
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Target Drive Up FAQs
Can Someone Else Pick Up My Drive Up Order?
Yes, Target allows order pickup by designated individuals for added flexibility. The primary account holder can authorize another person through the Target app by adding their name to the order details. The designated pickup person must present either the order barcode through the Target app or valid photo identification upon arrival.
How Long Will Target Hold My Drive Up Order?
There is specific Target curbside order time limit based on product categories. Standard orders are held for three days before automatic cancellation and refund. Grocery items with perishable content must be picked up by store closing the next business day. Starbucks orders are held for just 30 minutes due to their temperature-sensitive nature. Customers can extend standard orders for an additional three days through their Order Details page if needed.
What Happens If I Miss My Drive Up Window?
Orders not retrieved within the designated timeframe are automatically canceled and fully refunded to the original payment method. The refund typically processes within 3-5 business days, though actual fund availability depends on your financial institution. Target does not charge late fees or penalties for missed pickups. For expired perishable items, customers will need to place a new order for fulfillment.
Tips to Maximize Your Drive Up Experience
After what feels like a hundred Drive Up orders, I've picked up some tricks that make the experience even better and help you understand how does Target Drive Up work effectively.
Best Times to Place Orders
Timing can make a big difference in your Target Drive Up experience:
- Early morning orders (before 9 AM) often ready fastest
- Weekdays are generally less busy than weekends
- Avoid the after-work rush (4-6 PM) if you're in a hurry
- During holidays, order at least a day in advance
Using the Target App for Real-Time Updates
The Target app Drive Up features are your best friend. Make sure your notifications are turned on – those "your order is ready" alerts are satisfying to receive.
I also love that you can see real-time updates on preparation progress. Watching that status bar fill up is weirdly satisfying when you're checking on your Target Drive Up order ready time.
Combining Drive Up With Target Circle Offers
This is where you can really win at Target shopping. Always check your Target Circle offers before checking out. I've saved so much money combining Target curbside convenience with digital coupons.
Plus, if you have a RedCard, you get that sweet 5% off on Drive Up orders too. It feels like cheating, but it's not!
Final Thoughts: Making the Most of Target Drive Up Hours
At the end of the day, Target Drive Up has genuinely made my life easier. It's one of those modern conveniences that you don't know you need until you try it.
Understanding the Target Drive Up schedule means you can reliably plan your pickups around your busy life. Whether you're trying to figure out what time does Target pick up close for your evening planning or what time does Target Drive Up open for your morning routine, the consistency of the service makes it incredibly reliable.
The beauty of Target curbside pickup hours is that they work around your schedule, not the other way around. So next time you're dreading a Target run, remember you have another option.
