New generation customer service

I just got back from the AT+T store--a twenty minute drive each way. Walked in with credit card and social security number in hand to buy an iPhone. Out. Only 60 were shipped. And, if I wanted to give them my money now, I might, just might have it by next Wednesday. So, I decided that we would hazard getting it at an Apple Store. So, I call Syracuse and ask if it would be worth it for me to make a 2 hour drive to come and get a phone. They couldn't tell me either way. I asked why they couldn't tell me, it was just that they couldn't? Would they have more tomorrow, I asked? They couldn't tell me. What sort of BS is this? I am ready to plunk down hundreds of dollars and they have no answers? I give up.