10 questions to ask before joining a custom guitar builder's waitlist
- Is the posted wait until the build starts or until it's delivered? Some builders post both. One in the tracker lists a 24–36 month wait before the build starts, then about 12 weeks of building. See posted wait vs. build time.
- What can move my place in the queue? Spec changes, wood availability, or cancellations ahead of you.
- Is the deposit refundable, and until when? See how deposits work.
- When is the price locked? At deposit, at spec freeze, or at build start?
- When do I have to finalize the spec?
- What are the remaining payments and their timing?
- Will I get progress updates or photos?
- How is the guitar shipped and insured? For overseas builders: who pays import duty and tax?
- Are there wood or material restrictions (e.g. CITES) for shipping to my country?
- What's the warranty and setup policy after delivery?
Then compare the answer with the wait the builder posts in the tracker.