I just got done chatting with Apple via business chat. I inquired as to whether it’s worth paying the 8$ to add Express shipping to my order (Nov 3-5) to potentially get bumped into next week.
Essentially I was told that anything configured to order (not a base model) will ship from overseas directly, and express shipping won’t have an impact on. So more than likely I’m stuck with 11/3-5, barring any sudden logistics miracles.

A guy can hope! I’m dreaming of 10/29 so I can spend the week at the beach with it!