We have 2 HD and 2 Lowes within a 20 minute drive from our house (in 3 different directions). Both HD and one Lowes have amazing customer service, at least as far as buying regular things, like tools, lumber, etc. The other Lowes, well, we purchased a freezer from there a few months ago (because the other Lowes didn't have one in stock, and HD was more expensive for the same thing), and the service wasn't stellar, but it wasn't so bad as to complain about.
We've also purchased a washer and dryer from each place (HD 8 years ago, and the good Lowe's about 2 weeks ago). No problems with either delivery or set up, but the Lowe's people actually hooked both up for me, and ran them to make sure no problems (like leaks, etc), whereas the HD people just delivered them to the spot I wanted them but did not hook them up at all.
Just like any other chain, you'll find good locations and bad ones, and good and bad employees at each. Want them to improve? Gotta contact corporate every single time there is an issue.