Harbor Freight offers cheaper tools due to their significant buying power and direct collaboration with factories, eliminating the need for middlemen.
This approach enables them to provide competitive prices on tools and accessories, including compact drill drivers, portable generators, and gas-engine log splitters, both online and in their retail outlets.
The key factor contributing to the lower prices is not just the buying power, but also the way the business operates, bypassing middlemen and dealing directly with suppliers.
Buying power certainly contributes to why Harbor Freight offers cheaper tools than most places, but it's more about the way the business operates.
Author's summary: Harbor Freight's business model allows for cheaper tools.