We have a few final adjustments on the design translation from Squadra to Castelli - it will be nearly the same as our most recent Big Mountain design.
The order form is due to go live very soon. Here's how it will go:
How do I place my order?
Order form goes live. You will be notified via email. You can also reach the form as linked thru the Members section of our website. That's correct, Members Only - so make sure your dues are paid! Questions? email members@portlandvelo.net .
You place your order and pay via PayPal (the simplest means for us to track orders, and an instant receipt for you.)
How long will it take?
After about 4 weeks, the orders are submitted to Castelli. We need minimums for items, and don't want this to drag out waiting for months that to happen. If you want something, place your order ASAP.
Castelli processes our order, right here in town! They estimate 4-6 weeks for full order completion.
We receive the goods, sort for distribution. We send out an announcement that the order is ready, and schedule a pickup window with dates, times, and locations.
Best Guess? We should be distributing gear in October.
What if we don't hit the minimum orders?
Option A) If we are close to minimums, we can wait and beg people to order. This extends the timeline.
Option B) If we are close to minimums, the club can choose to buy a few extra pieces and hope someone decides they really did want to place an order.
Option C) If we completely miss the minimums, then it's time for Tough Love. We cancel the order, and hold off until the Spring'09 order. Refunds, and unhappy club members.
The minimum order quantities aren't ridiculous ~ but we do need Everyone who is interested in placing an order to do so as soon as the order form goes live. Traci will work with the club officers to make the best decision for the club if we fail to reach appropriate minimums.
How do I get my gear?
YOU will be responsible for picking up your order within the delivery window. Failure to do so can result in handling fees (via partial refund) and forfeit of your order. Read on for details.
If you cannot pick it up in person, assign a friend to pick it up for you AND contact Traci (traci@portlandvelo.net) to let her know who you've authorized.
If neither of those options work for you - it will be YOUR responsibility to make arrangements so the order can be shipped to you. You will contact Traci (traci@portlandvelo.net) and submit a paypal payment to cover the cost of shipping (tbd.)
If I do not hear from you by the end of the pickup window, I will attempt to contact you twice, via email. If I do not receive any communication or attempts to pick up your gear, I can choose to consider the order forfeit. If I am able to resell your order, we'll issue partial refunds (minus restock & handling fees.) Don't let this be you! All it takes is communication to avoid this scenario.
Gee Traci, why are you being so Militaristic about this?
A) You want your gear. I don't want to hold on to it. Neither of us wants to wait more than 3 months for distribution. Yes, I know it's August.
B) Prior order history - we've seen orders drag out waiting for minimums, last minute orders, etc. We're also STILL distributing gear from all prior orders! No one wants to store this stuff and track down people for months on end.
C) We want to establish a smooth and consistent order process - for you and for the organizers. This is the transition to that method. Portland Velo will be establishing twice-per-year orders with regular kit design updates. We're also forming a long term relationship with Castelli, supporting a locally based company (US division and manufacturer.) This will lead to additional benefits to our club over time, but we need to get the orders rolling in order to do so!
D) You want your gear. I want to get it to you as quickly as possible, and appreciate your help in making this happen!