I built a web app that calls Target/Walgreens to check Pokemon card stock so you don't have to
Hi all,
I shared my project in a comment earlier today and wanted to make a post with some more details since there was some valid skepticism. Between working and being a dad, I've basically been unable to find any cards at MSRP lately.
I can't (and don't really want to) camp at Target for hours waiting for vendor restocks, and I definitely don't want to spend my free time driving around only to find empty shelves.
So, I spent my spare evenings building a tool to solve this: alreadycalled.com.
How it works:
You put in your zip code, pick your local big box stores (Target, Walmart, GameStop, Walgreens, Barnes & Noble, etc.), and the system calls for you. It handles the automated phone tree and asks the clerk if they have sealed Pokémon stock or when the vendor usually arrives. The call gets transcribed live so you can read their notes and box counts.
I've tested it with some friends and family and wanted to share it more broadly. You can sign up and try it on stores near you 100% free for 7 days with no commitment. Feedback welcome!
Here's an example of what it looks like:
A quick note on pricing:
I know how skeptical everyone in the hobby is of paid services, bot groups, and Discord paywalls. I feel the exact same way.
- Browsing local reports is 100% free, forever: Anyone can enter their zip code and browse verified store findings, restock notes, and clerk transcripts in their area without paying anything.
- Why live calling isn't free : Placing real telephony calls, navigating menus, and streaming voice AI costs real money in carrier and server fees for every minute on the phone.
- No Wasted Credits: If an associate doesn't pick up or it hits voicemail, credits are automatically refunded and retries back off progressively.
What about the stores:
Having worked retail (RIP Circuit City) myself in the past, the last thing I wanted was to annoy store staff:
- Store cooldowns: Stores enter a multi-hour cooldown after being called so 20 different people don't ring the same clerk about the same product.
- Community benefit: Whenever anyone places a call, the result is shared publicly in the local store list for hours so other collectors in that area don't have to call to get the answer, hopefully reducing overall call volume.
I'm looking for real feedback:
You can search your zip code and read all verified store reports in your area completely free with an account.
If you want to test placing live calls in your area, I set up a 7-day free trial (no credit card required) when creating an account.
If you try it out let me know what you think. I've found it helpful in my own card hunting and am hoping it's useful for you too.