By customized I mean with added RAM and SSD (16Gb, 256Gb).
I know it's possible to order a customized configuration via website. But in this case such MacBook Pro will be available for pickup not earlier than in a month, website says. Unfortunately I don't have time since my upcoming trip to USA is shorter than that. Are there any other options available for me?
Thanks in advance!
Built-to-order means the ordered computer is not yet built. Your specifications are channeled to the factory in China where your BTO computer is assembled. Once built at the factory in China your computer is scheduled for pickup at the factory then it is put in the delivery queue. Once picked up by the delivery service in China it is routed to a distribution center in your country. The computer is then sent to your location for local delivery. This can not happen instantaneously and the clock starts clicking when you submit your specs for the unique build. Why is this an issue?
Built-to-order means the ordered computer is not yet built. Your specifications are channeled to the factory in China where your BTO computer is assembled. Once built at the factory in China your computer is scheduled for pickup at the factory then it is put in the delivery queue. Once picked up by the delivery service in China it is routed to a distribution center in your country. The computer is then sent to your location for local delivery. This can not happen instantaneously and the clock starts clicking when you submit your specs for the unique build. Why is this an issue?
BTO (built to order is just that— and done online.
The Apple store will carry stock configurations.
You need no appointment to walk into an Apple store to make a purchase.
https://locate.apple.com/country
Thanks for your reply!
I assume, first two sentences are missing word only.
BTO (built to order) is just that— and done online only.
The Apple store will carry only stock configurations.
The problem is - BTO takes too much time.
For instance, if no customization - website says it's ready for pickup right away. But as soon as I add some RAM, website says that I can pick up not earlier than on Feb 11.
Changing store doesn't help, still "Feb 11". Like I mentioned before, I'll have left USA by Feb 11.
But I guess there are no alternatives.
BobTheFisherman, thanks for your exhaustive reply. It really makes everything clear.
> Why is this an issue?
I don't have Apple Store in my own country and I wanted to benefit from my upcoming trip to USA and buy MacBook Pro. Unfortunately, the trip will be short (Jan 26 - Jan 31). BTO notebook won't make it till then.
smile421 wrote:
What I was hoping for - Apple had some BTO notebooks prebuilt and available in Apple Stores just in case. Alas.
Kind of goes against the definition of Built-To-Order.
And if stores did this they could then be left with stock that can't be sold. If I owned a store I would not stock expensive computers that may or may not be sold. My stock would only consist of "in demand by the masses" inventory, not one-of-a-kind items.
What I was hoping for - Apple had some BTO notebooks prebuilt and available in Apple Stores just in case. Alas.
Sounds reasonable. I just wasn't fully aware of these nuances. Again, thanks a lot!
If you know the store you will be, call now and ask the biggest-baddest they have on the shelf. If they have what you want (or at least can live with) buy it over the phone with a credit card.
Is it possible to buy a customized MacBook Pro by walking into Apple store in the US without prior arrangements?
