Hardware Sales

About Us

Founded by Max and Alta McClellan in 1962, Hardware Sales began as a small shop called Powder Sales on James Street, specializing in surplus goods and dynamite. The early days were marked by a dedication to quality products and exceptional service, principles that still guide us today. As the community’s needs evolved, so did we. By the early 1970s, we transitioned to Hardware Sales and moved to our current location in Bellingham, where we’ve grown to occupy
several blocks.

Our expansion didn’t stop there. We established distribution centers in Ferndale, WA, and Whiteland, IN, to support our thriving online sales, ensuring that customers near and far have access to our extensive inventory. Today, we employ over 140 people who share our commitment to service and expertise. We offer everything from hardware and tools to an extensive fleet of equipment rentals, catering to both DIY enthusiasts and professional contractors.

Hardware Sales

Our Offerings

Our Lawn Equipment Service Center, located nearby, is a certified repair center, reinforcing our commitment to supporting our customers long after the sale. Over the years, our dedication has been recognized—proudly earning us the title of Best Hardware Store. But what truly sets us apart is our knowledgeable and courteous team, who bring hundreds of years of combined hardware experience to the table.
From our humble beginnings to our status as a premier hardware supplier in the Pacific Northwest, Hardware Sales remains rooted in the values of service, quality, and community. Come see why we’ve been the trusted choice for over 60 years—We’ve Got It!

Left to right: Alta McClellan, Jerry McClellan and Ty McClellan

Hardware Sales

Our Offerings

Hardware Sales has become a top hardware supplier in the Pacific Northwest. From plumbing and electrical materials to automotive and garden supplies, we have it all! We also feature an Industrial Sales Division for corporate clients and a Rental Department with competitive rates on nearly everything we sell.

Our award-winning business spans multiple buildings in Bellingham, offering over 68,000 items to homeowners and contractors alike. Since 1962, we’ve grown from three employees to over 140, with 87,000 square feet of retail and warehouse space in Bellingham and an additional 32,000 square feet in Ferndale.

Left to right: LaDonna George, Alta McClellan, Jerry McClellan and Ty McClellan

Hardware Sales

More About Alta

In March of 2003, Alta McClellan, at age 87, received the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award from the Whatcom County Business Pulse “for her dedication to making Hardware Sales such an enduring success.”

Hardware sales

Awards

Here are a few of the many testimonials Alta received with her Lifetime Achievement Award:
Some of our favorite Alta-isms

What she said or did . . . .
1. Buttered her toast to the edges.
2. “Breaker! Breaker!”
3. “Don’t forget please and thank you.”
4. Left room for dessert.
5. “We can give it a try.”
6. Worked diligently.
7. Brought in cookies and candy on holidays.
8. Daily KP (Kitchen Patrol)
9. Reused plastic bags.
10. Wore make-up every day.

What it teaches us . . . .

1. Live life to the fullest.
2. Customers come first . . . Get the phone!
3. Treat each other with respect.
4. Enjoy the little things.
5. Be willing to try new things.
6. Apply yourself 100% to what you do.
7. Celebrate every chance you get!
8. We are all created equally.
9. A penny saved is a penny earned.
10. Put your best foot forward.

Scroll to Top