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In Store Release Guidelines - Best Buy

Welcome to release day at Best Buy!

We want everyone to have a fun, safe and successful experience. Before finding your place in line, here are some things to know and what to do during release day.

For more information about our purpose and values, visit our Code of Ethics. Ethics - Best Buy Corporate News and Information

Forming a line

Learn when and where to form a line before the store opens.

Safety

Find best practices to help create a safe and positive experience for everyone.

Product availability

Learn about product limits and availability for limited releases.

Your place in line

Help make the line safe and fun for everyone.

When to form a line:

  • There is no set time to start forming a line — it’s up to you based on how long you’re willing to wait
  • Lines are formed on a first come, first served basis

Where to form a line:

  • Before the store opens, form a line outside the store, near the front entrance
  • For smaller events during store hours, a line may be formed inside the store as directed by Best Buy employees
  • Do not block entrances, exits, emergency pathways or neighboring businesses
  • Do not interfere with traffic flow, sidewalks or Curbside Pickup areas
  • Best Buy employees or security staff may adjust the line location at any time for safety or operational needs

Courtesies while waiting:

  • Please be respectful and considerate of others in line at all times
  • Do not hold or reserve places in line for others
  • Do not join a group or party already in line
  • “Ghost chairs” or unattended placeholders are not permitted
  • If you need to briefly leave the line (e.g., restroom), coordinate with those immediately around you; extended absences may result in your losing your place
  • A place in line does not guarantee product availability

Safety and conduct

Your safety is our top priority. Whether the store is open or closed, please be respectful and aware of those around you to help create a safe and positive experience.

When the store is open:

  • Follow all directions from Best Buy employees and security personnel
  • Report concerns to a Best Buy employee if someone is acting unlawfully or disrespectfully toward customers or employees
  • Anyone acting in a disruptive, unsafe or disrespectful manner may be asked to leave the line or store
  • If a situation cannot be resolved by Best Buy employees, local authorities may be contacted

When the store is closed:

  • Best Buy employees may not be working at the store location at all times
  • If you encounter an emergency or feel unsafe, call 911
  • Be aware that store premises may be monitored by security cameras
  • When the store opens, Best Buy employees will provide instructions for entering the store and completing purchases — please follow all directions to ensure a smooth process

Product limits and availability

We do our best to help as many customers get the products they’re looking forward to on release days.

When the store is open:

  • Best Buy sets product limits to help ensure product availability
  • Product limits vary by product and release — check with a Best Buy employee for specific limits on this release
  • Must be present to purchase
  • Items cannot be provided to
    • Children not present
    • Infants, present or not
  • No vendors or resellers
  • Best Buy does not share inventory status online for limited-release items
  • Best Buy employees cannot provide real-time inventory numbers

Additional tips

Noise and trash:

  • Keep noise levels reasonable, especially in shared or residential areas
  • Dispose of trash properly and help keep the area clean

Weather tips:

  • Check the weather before lining up
  • Dress for the weather — add additional layers in cold conditions or wear light, breathable clothing in the heat
  • Use sunscreen, hats, or umbrellas for sun protection

Personal tips:

  • Wear comfortable shoes since you may be standing for long periods
  • Stay hydrated — bring a refillable water bottle
  • Eat regular snacks to keep your energy up
  • Take short stretches or shift your weight occasionally to stay loose
  • Have entertainment ready (music, podcasts, books, games) to pass the time

Thank you for helping create a positive and orderly experience for everyone!

Your Best Buy release day checklist:

  • Small folding chair
  • Jacket
  • Raincoat
  • Gloves, hat, blanket
  • Hand warmers
  • Phone and portable charger
  • Water bottle
  • Sunscreen
  • Book, games or other entertainment
  • Headphones/earbuds