What Do You Need to Pick Up a GameStop Order?
Picking up your new game or gaming accessory from GameStop should be a straightforward experience. However, knowing exactly what to bring can prevent any last-minute hiccups. So, what do you really need when you head to the store? The short answer is: your “Ready For Pick Up” email, a valid government-issued photo ID, and if applicable, the means to pay any remaining balance. Let’s break this down further.
Essential Items for GameStop Order Pickup
The “Ready For Pick Up” Email
First and foremost, you must have your “Ready For Pick Up” email. This crucial email is your confirmation that your order has been processed and is waiting for you at your selected store. It typically includes the following:
- Order Number: This is vital for the store to locate your specific purchase.
- Item Details: This lets you double-check that the correct items are ready.
- Store Information: This confirms the specific GameStop location where your order is held.
- Pickup Instructions: This often includes details about how to notify the staff upon arrival.
You can either print this email or, in most cases, show it on your smartphone or other mobile device. Having this email readily accessible makes the pickup process much quicker.
Valid Government-Issued Photo ID
Next, you’ll need a valid photo ID. GameStop requires this to ensure that the person picking up the order matches the person who placed it. This is primarily a security measure to prevent fraud. Accepted forms of identification usually include:
- Driver’s License: Most commonly accepted.
- State ID Card: A government-issued photo ID from your state.
- Passport: If you do not have any other ID available, use a passport.
The ID must be current and valid, meaning it cannot be expired. A student ID is not usually accepted as it’s not a government-issued identification.
Payment for Remaining Balance (If Applicable)
While you may have paid a portion of your order online, some pre-orders might require an additional payment upon pickup. Be prepared to pay any remaining balance using one of GameStop’s accepted payment methods, such as:
- Cash: Although less common now, cash is still accepted.
- Credit Card: Major credit cards like Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover are usually accepted.
- Debit Card: Debit cards with a Visa or Mastercard logo can be used.
- GameStop Gift Cards: If you have a GameStop gift card, you can use it toward the remaining balance.
- Other Payment Options: GameStop may accept other payment options as well, such as through a store credit system, if applicable.
Additional Considerations
Age Restrictions
If you are under 17 years old and purchasing an M-rated game, you must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. This is to comply with legal requirements regarding the sale of mature-rated content to minors. Your guardian will need to present their own valid photo ID.
Pre-Orders
If you are picking up a pre-order, be aware that GameStop may hold the item for a limited period, usually around 48 hours after it becomes available for pickup. After this period, they might place it back on the shelf for general sale. It’s best to pick up your pre-order as soon as you receive the “Ready for Pick Up” notification.
PowerUp Rewards Members
If you’re a PowerUp Rewards member, you may not need a printed receipt. GameStop associates can often locate your pre-order by scanning your membership card.
Contactless Pickup
GameStop often offers contactless pickup options. Once you arrive at the store, contact the staff via phone or a designated in-store pickup system to initiate the contactless pickup. They will bring your items to you, so you don’t need to go inside the store or wait in line.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can someone else pick up my GameStop order?
Yes, it’s possible for someone else to pick up your order, but it’s not always guaranteed and will require some extra steps. Usually you will need to call the store ahead of time to notify them of your situation. You may need to provide the name and contact number of the person who will be picking up the order. This allows the store to make notes on the order. The person picking up the order still needs to bring your order confirmation email, and they may be asked to provide your full name and phone number for verification.
2. How long will GameStop hold my pickup order?
GameStop will typically hold your item until the end of the current business day if your order was placed during store hours. Orders placed after store closing will usually receive an email notification the next business day and will be held until the end of that business day. For pre-orders, the typical hold period is 48 hours. However, especially for highly anticipated releases, this hold period can be shorter.
3. What happens if I don’t pick up my order?
If you don’t pick up your order within the holding period, it’s usually put back on the shelf for sale. For pre-orders, the money you paid will stay on your account or pre-order so you can move it to another item or cancel the pre-order. However, it’s best to pick up your order promptly to ensure you receive your item without delay.
4. Do I need a receipt to pick up a preorder at GameStop?
While having your receipt is handy, it’s not usually essential if you have the “Ready for Pickup” email and the correct photo ID. GameStop stores can generally look up your order using the order number or your PowerUp Rewards account.
5. How do I know if my GameStop order went through?
To track your order, log into your GameStop account and visit the Order History page. There, you’ll find a list of your recent orders and their status. You should receive an order confirmation email shortly after making your purchase and a follow-up email when your order is ready for pickup.
6. Can I pick up a GameStop pre-order at any location?
No, you must pick up your pre-order at the specific GameStop store you selected at the time of your order. You cannot change the selected store once your order has been placed.
7. Does GameStop charge me immediately for preorders?
GameStop will often authorize your card when you place the order, but you won’t be fully charged until the item is ready for pickup or shipping, depending on the selected delivery method.
8. Can minors buy from GameStop?
While GameStop sells products for children, these sales are typically conducted with adults who can pay through a valid payment method. If you are under 18, you should use the website with a parent or guardian’s involvement. However, minors over the age of 17 can purchase 17+ games as mentioned.
9. Why does GameStop require ID?
GameStop requires ID to verify the identity of the customer when they pick up their order, making trade-ins, and to ensure that they are complying with age restrictions on mature-rated products. They also require it for legal purposes to prevent fraud in trade-ins, as in many states, it’s required by law.
10. Do you need an ID to buy a 17+ game?
Yes, you need to be 17 or older and present a valid ID to purchase an M-rated (mature) video game. If you are under 17, you need to be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.
11. How long does it take for GameStop to process an order?
Orders are typically processed within 1 business day and delivered within 2 business days after the order has been processed. Pickup orders will be typically ready within two hours if the order was placed during store hours.
12. Do GameStop packages require a signature?
Yes, to ensure secure delivery, FedEx requires a signature when delivering GameStop packages to your home.
13. Why does GameStop take fingerprints?
Some GameStop locations, particularly in certain cities or regions, collect fingerprints when customers bring in used games for trade. This is a measure to prevent the sale of stolen goods and is sometimes done in cooperation with local law enforcement.
14. Can you sell games at GameStop at 17?
No, to comply with local laws and regulations, you must be 18 years old to trade in or sell games at GameStop.
15. Does GameStop take pre-orders over the phone?
While it’s not a standard practice, some GameStop stores may allow pre-orders over the phone, especially if a product is sold out on the website. You’ll need to call your local store to inquire about this possibility.
By ensuring you have the necessary documents and are aware of GameStop’s procedures, picking up your order will be a quick and easy part of your gaming experience.