Frequently Asked Questions

Please see below for answers to some of the most common questions about our reuse nonprofit. If you have additional questions that aren’t covered here, please get in touch by email at info@CommunityForklift.org or by phone at (301) 985-5180.

PURCHASING MATERIALS

Can you tell me if you have a specific product in stock?

Our inventory relies on donations and materials come and go every day. Please visit our reuse warehouse to see all of the materials we currently have available. You can also see a selection of materials online in our Community Forklift Marketplace.

Do you provide delivery for materials?

We don’t have delivery partners or anyone that we endorse for delivery, but a couple of hauling services have left their cards with us if you want to contact them! Visit our reuse warehouse and ask at the front desk to see their cards.

Can you hold or reserve an item for me?

We only hold items that have been purchased! So if you see an item that you like, please check online in our Community Forklift Marketplace to see if it is listed there or visit our reuse warehouse in person to make a purchase. We can hold purchased items for up to 5 days to give you time to make arrangements for transportation.

Can I purchase an item over the phone?

We do not sell items over the phone. In order to make a purchase, please check online in our Community Forklift Marketplace to see if your item is listed there or visit our reuse warehouse in person.

What are your reuse warehouse store policies on returns, loading, visiting, etc?

Check our store policies to learn about our return policy, how to load purchased materials into your vehicle, preparing for your visit the warehouse, and more.

DONATING MATERIALS

What kind of donations do you take?

All materials are evaluated on a case-by-case basis and accepted based on our donation guidelines after being inspected in person by our receiving team. If you have any questions (or if you’d like someone to review photos of your materials before you bring them to the warehouse) please contact our Donations Team at Donations@CommunityForklift.org or (301) 985-5180.

How do I schedule a donations pickup appointment?

Please visit our material donations page to learn more about donating and fill out a donation pickup request form. Our Donations Team will assess the items and determine if they are sufficient in volume and value for our free pick up service. You can also drop off donations during our open warehouse hours. If you have questions, please contact our Donations Team at Donations@CommunityForklift.org or (301) 985-5180. Thank you!

Do I need to be home for a donations pickup appointment?

Not at all! If you won’t be at home during your appointment, just put your items in an accessible space and let us know where to find them. If items are left outside, please use caution to avoid theft or water damage. We’ll leave your donation receipt under your door or in your mailbox.

When can I drop off a donation?

We accept donations at our reuse warehouse up to 30 minutes before closing. Please check our donation guidelines before visiting. If you have questions about donating materials, please contact our Donations Team at Donations@CommunityForklift.org or (301) 985-5180. Thank you for your support!

Are donations tax-deductible?

Yes! Community Forklift is a 501(c)3 nonprofit and your material and financial donations are tax-deductible to the full extent allowed by law. We will provide you with a receipt for tax purposes that lists the items you’ve donated.

PROGRAMS

How can a community group or nonprofit apply to get free materials?

Please visit our Community Building Blocks page for more information and an application. If you have any questions or need assistance with the application, please contact Susana, our Community Giving Manager, at 301-985-5180 ext. 303

How do I apply for the Home Essentials program?

Please visit our Home Essentials Program page for more information and an application. If you have any questions or need assistance with the application, please contact Susana, our Community Giving Manager, at 301-985-5180 ext. 303.