Why is it so difficult to buy a T60p in the UK?

[Wardie]

My first post but unfortunately it's a rant, sorry!

I've been looking around for a decent spec laptop and very quickly settled on a T60p (my 1st TP), the UK site only offers the 'top-sellers' and trying to buy one gets you directed to a number of on-line stores which only stock a couple of lower models. I found a 'Premium Partner' near to me (just want to see it in the 'flesh' and get a price, the guy (after a week of waiting) offered me "....a similar spec laptop" which turned out to be a Toshiba Tecra M5!

I thought I'd try the US site, as ideally, I want something a bit customized, decided on:
T7600, Vista Business, 14.1 SXGA+, 4GB, 100GB 7200rpm, DVD burner, 9 cell battery, Office 2007 Pro and the Ultrabay battery...for exactly half the price of a much lower spec T60p here!

Do any of you guys know if it's possible to customize and buy a TP from Lenovo US but, as they won't ship overseas, pick it up direct from them? I'd be more than happy to jump on a plane for a weekend trip! I don't mind spending a few hundred $ to save $3k!

Sorry for the long rant but after reading all the posts about how good these TPs are I'm getting desperate!

[ryengineer]

Do any of you guys know if it's possible to customize and buy a TP from Lenovo US but, as they won't ship overseas, pick it up direct from them?

It's possible as long as you have a shipping address in the US. They don't have any pick-up options. Also, I don't own any international Credit Card so I'm unable to comment on if Lenovo accepts any non US ones.

[bin.dong]

Do any of you guys know if it's possible to customize and buy a TP from Lenovo US but, as they won't ship overseas, pick it up direct from them?

It's possible as long as you have a shipping address in the US.

You have to have a US address. I am in Canada, US Lenovo won't ship any units to Canada.

[Dead1nside]

I hear what you're saying about the UK Lenovo site, it's terrible, you should be able to get customised versions in the UK, but you cannot. They only redirect you to their business partners, Cheriton, InsightUK, PC World Business, Dabs etc.

They only have certain configurations.

So much for having a strong pound as well, since everybody thinks they can take us for double. It's ridiculous I know, but I can't see it changing.

[cakesy]

It is actually cheaper to fly to the US, but it there, and have a little holiday - all prices included, than buy one in the UK. If you have a mate in the US, that is the best option.