Big Lots Store Locator

Big Lots store locator uses either a zip code or a city and state combination entry as search criteria to find the Big Lots store within a specified distance. The top text box of the store locator is where the zip code can be entered. If the zip code is unknown, a city name can be entered in the second text box and the state then selected from the "State" drop-down box. Note: For best results do NOT enter both criteria, enter ONLY the zip code or ONLY the city and state. The Big Lots store locator is designed to use only one of the criteria.

The Big Lots store locator uses six pre-defined search distances. From the drop-down box on the Big Lots store locator screen the following selections can be made: 5 miles from selected area, 10 miles from selected area, 25 miles from selected area, 50 miles from selected area, 100 miles selected area, or 250 miles from selected area. To search farther than 250 miles away, research a zip code or city closer to the target store to get its information if it is available.

Once the search criteria has been entered, selecting "Go" queries the database and results are displayed in the larger map window to the left of the search box. The Big Lots store locator overlays search results in color coded exclamation marks on a map powered by Google Maps. A legend of the color codes is below the title "Store Locator Key" on the right side of the Big Lots store locator below the "Go" button. An orange exclamation mark denotes a full furniture show room to include mattresses. A purple exclamation mark denotes Ready-to-Assemble furniture and mattresses. A yellow exclamation mark denotes Ready-to-Assemble furniture. A green exclamation mark denotes no furniture.

Below the map area of the Big Lots store locator is the information about the results displayed on the map. The store address and phone number, the store hours, directions to the store, whether the store has delivery available and a link to the ad for the store. The results are displayed in order of the distance from the entered search criteria.

The Big Lots store locator fits in seamlessly with the rest of the Big Lots website. The information the store locator provides is informative. The "additional information" section after the search is a little below the fold and it is possible to miss if in a hurry. The color coded exclamation marks to denote the type of store helps to minimize confusion though it could pose a problem if there was a tight concentration of stores.

Big Lots has used current technology to its fullest in putting together its store locator. As long as the proper criteria is used and a store is in the area, results can be found and returned. A consumer using the Big Lots store locator can find most information needed to locate a store, contact the store within store hours and other facts before visiting the neighbourhood Big Lots.