To ask if they have something specific you are looking for without you having to physically get there and check yourself?

With products that are in high demand, you can even get stuff reserved.

I'm not even American, and I've done both of these.

And for some reason, stores rarely have an online system for checking inventory. I really don't understand that, because it's literally the main reason I go to a given store, and it's already digitized so it wouldn't cost them much.

The only time I've done that in the current century is to confirm holiday hours when not made explicit on the web. eg. If it's New Year's, "are you open today, what time will you close?"

If the store is clever they will leave a pre-recorded message announcing holiday hours.

If you are picking up catering from say Whole Foods, being able to call is essential. Also helps a lot to call and see if X item is out of stock that is almost always out of stock.

For example to check inventory/stock before going there.

Even with online checks, I’ve had to call the store.

Walmart always lists under 6 inventory counts as « low stock » with no guarantee.

Since I was looking for a particular auto battery that never has more than a few units in stock, I had to call for them to check.

To find out something about the store; hours, events, product availability, etc

For other stores, generally to ask if a product is in stock. For a grocery store, all I can think of would be to ask if it's open.

Calling is handy to ask what price an item is and whether it's in stock, or order something prepared by the deli or bakery that you want on a certain date/time.

I called a few times to ask the pharmacy hours, which are shorter than the main store's.

call and ask if they have a rare produce item in stock like Rhubarb or something..

Wait what, not only is there someone to call in US stores, but also rhubarb is considered rare?!

This whole thread is just a constant TIL/am-I-taking-crazy-pills moment :)

just an example from my childhood like 20 years ago. maybe supply chain for rhubarb is awesome now, i don't know, i don't buy it..