Comprehensive security assessment and trust analysis
Target
Performance Overview
Better than 10% of retailers in this category
Detailed Trust Score Breakdown
Our comprehensive evaluation across 6 key criteria that matter most to online shoppers
Trust Score Breakdown
SSL certificates, payment security, data protection measures
Response time, support quality, problem resolution effectiveness
Shipping reliability, tracking availability, packaging quality
Return process ease, timeframes, refund handling
Website usability, mobile compatibility, checkout process
Company information visibility, contact accessibility, terms clarity
How We Calculate Trust Scores
Each component is weighted based on its importance to consumer safety and satisfaction.
How We Calculate Trust Scores
Our trust scores are based on comprehensive evaluation across 6 key criteria: Security & Privacy (25%), Customer Service (20%), Shipping & Delivery (20%), Return Policy (15%), User Experience (10%), and Transparency (10%). Each component is independently verified and weighted based on consumer safety importance.
Learn about our scoring methodologyPros & Cons at a Glance
What stands out about Target
Pros
- Industry-leading 90-day return policy with no restocking fees
- Exceptional omnichannel experience with Drive Up, Order Pickup, and Same-Day Delivery
- Target Circle rewards program offering 1% back plus exclusive deals
- RedCard benefits including 5% discount and extended returns
- Strong security infrastructure with continuous improvements
- High-quality store brands (Good & Gather, Cat & Jack, etc.)
- Free 2-day shipping on orders over $35
- Extensive store network for convenient returns and pickups
Cons
- Online inventory accuracy doesn't always match in-store availability
- Delivery delays can occur during peak holiday seasons
- Price matching policy complex across channels
- Third-party marketplace recently added with inconsistent quality
- Some popular items frequently out of stock online
Is Target Right for You?
Find out if this retailer matches your shopping needs
Best For
- Shoppers valuing flexible omnichannel shopping options
- Families seeking quality store brands at competitive prices
- Customers who prioritize easy, free returns
- RedCard holders wanting 5% savings on all purchases
- Local shoppers who can leverage store pickup services
Not Ideal For
- Shoppers in areas without nearby Target stores
- Those needing guaranteed next-day delivery on all items
- Customers seeking ultra-specialized or niche products
- Buyers uncomfortable with potential stock accuracy issues
About Target
Target combines physical retail excellence with robust online shopping, offering 1,900+ stores and innovative omnichannel fulfillment through Drive Up curbside pickup, same-day Order Pickup, and Shipt delivery. With an impressive trust score of 9.0/10, Target delivers exceptional value through its industry-leading 90-day return policy and comprehensive Target Circle rewards program.
Security and payment protection rank excellent across Target’s platform, with valid SSL certification, PCI-DSS compliance, and acceptance of all major payment processors including Target RedCard, PayPal, and digital wallets. The platform maintains a clean security history with no major data breaches and implements robust fraud prevention systems.
The platform excels through true omnichannel convenience, seamlessly integrating Drive Up curbside pickup, Order Pickup services, and same-day Shipt delivery. Target’s proprietary brands deliver premium quality at accessible price points, while the RedCard program provides immediate 5% savings on all purchases with free 2-day shipping and extended return windows.
Target Circle membership is completely free and offers 1% back on all purchases, hundreds of exclusive deals, personalized offers, and receipt-free returns. For optimal shopping experience, join Target Circle to access rewards and utilize Drive Up or Order Pickup for same-day convenience.
Our Testing Methodology
Our Target review involved testing online orders with various fulfillment methods (Drive Up, Order Pickup, shipping), evaluating customer service across multiple channels, analyzing security protocols through third-party assessments, testing the return process with multiple product categories, and comparing Target-branded products against name brands for quality. Testing occurred over a 120-day period including holiday peak season.
How It Compares
vs. Walmart
Superior store experience with better organized layouts, higher-quality store brands, and more innovative fulfillment options like Drive Up. Target's 90-day return policy far exceeds Walmart's standard 30-day window.
vs. Amazon
Physical store presence enables same-day Drive Up pickup and easy in-person returns. Target Circle offers more transparent rewards than Amazon's opaque pricing strategies. Better customer service accessibility.
vs. Best Buy
Broader product selection beyond electronics, more convenient locations, longer return windows (90 days vs. 15-60 days), and integrated grocery and household essentials.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about shopping at Target
1 How does Target's Drive Up service work?
Order eligible items through the Target app, select Drive Up at checkout, and park in designated Drive Up spots when you arrive. Notify the app you're on your way, and Target team members bring your order directly to your car - completely contactless and free.
2 What are the benefits of Target Circle membership?
Target Circle is free and offers 1% earnings on purchases, hundreds of deals, birthday gifts, and community support voting. You also get receipt-free returns, exclusive early access to sales, and personalized offers based on your shopping preferences.
3 Is Target RedCard worth getting?
RedCard offers immediate 5% savings on all purchases (both online and in-store), free 2-day shipping, extended return windows (an extra 30 days), and exclusive early access to special sales. If you shop at Target regularly, the savings typically outweigh any concerns about store-specific cards.
4 Can I return items bought online to Target stores?
Yes! Target offers seamless omnichannel returns. You can return online purchases to any Target store within 90 days, and Target Circle members don't even need to bring a receipt - the system finds your purchase automatically through your account.
5 How accurate is Target's online inventory for in-store pickup?
Target's inventory accuracy has improved significantly but isn't perfect. The app shows real-time inventory at your local store, but high-demand items may sell out between checking and ordering. Order Pickup reservations hold items for you, ensuring availability when you arrive.
Ready to Shop with Confidence?
Our comprehensive review has analyzed Target across all key trust factors. Make informed decisions for safe online shopping.