If you live anywhere near Monmouth County, you already know that Route 9 is basically a gauntlet of strip malls and traffic lights. It can be exhausting. But tucked into the Howell Commons, there is a TJ Maxx that somehow manages to feel like a hidden gem even though it's sitting right there in plain sight. Honestly, not every location is created equal. You’ve probably walked into some that look like a tornado hit the shoe department, but the TJ Maxx Howell New Jersey spot has a reputation for being one of the more organized, high-stock hubs in the area.
It's located at 4773 Route 9 North, and if you’re trying to find it, just look for the massive Target and the Kohl’s nearby. It’s right in that sweet spot of the Howell Commons power center.
People always ask if it’s worth the drive if they have a location closer to home. The short answer? Yeah, probably. Because this specific store is anchored next to a HomeGoods, you get this weirdly synergistic shopping experience where the inventory seems to flow better than the standalone shops.
What Actually Makes the Howell Location Stand Out?
Most people don’t realize that TJ Maxx inventory isn't just random. It’s actually tailored to the demographics of the neighborhood. Since Howell sits at this crossroads between the busier suburban sprawl of Freehold and the quieter residential pockets of Jackson and Farmingdale, the "buys" here are surprisingly diverse. You aren't just getting the leftovers.
One of the biggest draws for this specific store is the Runway section.
Now, look, not every TJ Maxx has a Runway department. For the uninitiated, Runway is where they keep the actual high-end designer stuff—think Gucci, Prada, Theory, or Vince—at prices that won't make your bank account weep. The Howell store is known for having a solid selection of these premium labels, especially in the handbag and contemporary clothing aisles.
The Layout Strategy
Walking into the Howell store, you’ll notice the jewelry counter is usually front and center. It’s a bit of a strategic move. They want you to see the shiny stuff first. But if you’re a seasoned Maxxinista, you know the real gold is usually buried in the back-right corner where the clearance racks live.
The home section here is also a major player. Because it shares a wall (metaphorically) with HomeGoods, the buyers for this location seem to lean heavily into high-end kitchen gadgets and seasonal decor.
It’s big. It’s airy.
The aisles are generally wider than the ones you’ll find in some of the older, cramped locations in North Jersey. That matters when you’re maneuvering a cart full of oversized candles and a mirror you definitely didn't need.
The Secret Timing to Score the Best Deals
If you show up on a Saturday afternoon, you’re doing it wrong. Sorry, but it's true. The store is a madhouse, the lines wrap around the beauty section, and the best items have already been snatched up by the morning crowd.
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If you want the "good stuff" at TJ Maxx Howell New Jersey, you have to play the game like a pro.
- Midweek mornings are the "Goldilocks" zone. Specifically, Tuesday through Thursday. Most shipments arrive and get processed overnight or early in the morning. By 10:00 AM on a Wednesday, the new arrivals are hitting the floor, and the store is quiet enough that you can actually hear yourself think.
- The Yellow Tag Hunt. We all know the red stickers are markdowns. But the yellow stickers? Those are the final, final prices. In Howell, these usually start appearing in late January and July during the semi-annual clearance events. If you see a yellow tag on a Runway item, buy it. Don’t "think about it." It will be gone by the time you circle back from the pet aisle.
- The Monday Reset. Mondays are generally when the staff is cleaning up the wreckage from the weekend. It's a great time to find items that were "hidden" or misplaced in the wrong department by frantic Saturday shoppers.
Don't Skip the Beauty Aisle
The beauty section in the Howell location is consistently stocked with high-end skincare. We're talking brands that usually retail for $80 at Sephora showing up for $19.99. However, a word of warning: check the seals. Since it’s a high-traffic store, some people have a bad habit of opening boxes to smell the products.
Logistics: Getting In and Out
Let's talk about the parking situation because Route 9 in Howell is its own special kind of nightmare. The Howell Commons parking lot is massive, but it's also a bit of a maze.
Pro Tip: Park closer to the Old Navy or the Applebee's if you want an easier exit. The spots directly in front of the TJ Maxx entrance stay packed, and trying to back out of there while a line of cars is waiting for your spot is stressful.
The store hours are pretty standard:
- Monday – Saturday: 9:30 AM to 9:30 PM
- Sunday: 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Wait, check the holiday hours before you go. During the "Ber" months (October, November, December), they usually extend these, sometimes opening as early as 8:00 AM.
Real Talk on Customer Service
Is the staff friendly? Usually. But remember, this is a high-volume discount retailer. The cashiers are moving fast. If you have a complex return (like something bought online or from a different location), have your receipt ready. Howell shoppers are notoriously efficient, and if you’re the person fumbling for a digital receipt in a dead zone, you’ll feel the collective glare of the line behind you.
Actionable Steps for Your Next Visit
If you’re planning a trip to the TJ Maxx in Howell, here is your game plan to ensure you don’t leave empty-handed or frustrated:
- Check the "New Arrivals" Racks First: These are usually near the front of the clothing sections. Don't waste time on the picked-over middle racks until you've cleared the fresh stuff.
- Inspect Everything: Because Howell gets so much foot traffic, things can get a little beat up. Check for missing buttons, snagged zippers, or foundation stains on white tops. If you find a minor flaw, ask a manager for a "damage discount." They’ll often knock an extra 10% off.
- Use the TJX Rewards Card Wisely: If you shop here often, the 5% back in rewards is actually decent. But only if you pay it off immediately. The interest rates on those cards are astronomical, which sort of defeats the purpose of "saving" money.
- Pair Your Trip: Since HomeGoods is right there, do a "loop." Start at TJ Maxx for clothes and beauty, then hit HomeGoods for the heavy lifting. There's also a Burlington nearby if you’re really on a mission to compare prices.
Ultimately, the TJ Maxx Howell New Jersey location is one of those rare spots where the inventory actually matches the hype. It’s large enough to have variety but curated enough to not feel like a warehouse. Just remember: if you love it, put it in your cart. In the world of off-price retail, "I'll come back for it later" is just another way of saying "I didn't really want it anyway," because it definitely won't be there.