If you’ve recently ordered a custom BMW from the factory, you were probably given a production number. But what does that number actually mean? And how can you use it to track the status of your car? This guide explains what a BMW production number is, how the order process works, and how to monitor the progress from initial order to final delivery.
What Is a BMW Production Number?
A BMW production number is a unique 7-digit identifier assigned to your custom order before it receives a VIN (Vehicle Identification Number). It allows BMW and its dealers to track your car through the entire production and logistics process—from factory scheduling to final delivery at your dealership.
You’ll typically receive your production number after placing your order with a BMW dealer, especially for builds that aren’t taken from dealer inventory.
What Can You Do With a BMW Production Number?
The production number allows you to:
- Track the status of your car build on BMW’s official system
- Check updates through BMW Genius or My BMW app
- Receive alerts as your vehicle moves through different stages
- Confirm build specs (color, trim, packages, etc.)
It’s important to understand that the production number is temporary—it gets replaced by the VIN once your car officially enters production.
How to Track Your BMW Production Status
You can check your production status using the following methods:
1. BMW Genius Hotline
- Call 1-844-4GENIUS (443-6487)
- Provide your production number
- Geniuses are available to give real-time updates
2. My BMW App or BMW USA Website
- Login using your BMW ConnectedDrive credentials
- Add your production number under “My Vehicles”
- Track the car through each build phase (more below)
3. BMW Dealer Contact
- Your sales advisor can look up detailed internal status codes
- Useful for getting more granular information than the public app
BMW Production Status Codes Explained
BMW uses internal status codes to indicate exactly where your vehicle is in the build and delivery process. Here are the most commonly used ones:
| Status Code | Description |
|---|---|
| 047 | Allocation Confirmed – Production number assigned |
| 111 | Order Accepted – BMW AG accepts and schedules the build |
| 112 | Scheduled for Production – Locked for changes |
| 150 | Production Started – Manufacturing has begun |
| 151–153 | Body and Paint – Chassis and body construction, painting |
| 155 | Assembly Complete – Major factory work is finished |
| 160 | Quality Check – Final inspection and testing |
| 165 | Ready for Shipping – Car awaits transport |
| 168 | Shipped from Plant – Left factory en route to port or transport hub |
| 193 | At Port of Exit – Waiting for shipping vessel |
| 193–195 | In Transit – On a ship or truck to destination country |
| 198 | At Dealer – Final arrival at your selling dealership |
How Long Does the BMW Build Process Take?
On average, it takes 6 to 10 weeks from order placement to delivery in the U.S., depending on model, factory, and shipping conditions. The timing varies based on availability, production scheduling, and logistics. Here’s a rough timeline:
- Week 1–2: Order submitted and accepted (status 111)
- Week 2–4: Scheduled and locked in (status 112)
- Week 4–5: Enters production and completes (150–160)
- Week 5–7: Shipped to U.S. or local region (165–193)
- Week 7–10: Delivered to dealership (198)
Note: Factory holidays, global supply shortages, or special configurations (like Individual orders) may extend this timeline.
Can You Change Your Order After Receiving a Production Number?
Yes, but only before status 112 is reached. Once your order is in status 112 (“Scheduled for Production”), the build is locked and no changes to color, options, or packages can be made. That’s why it’s important to finalize all choices early.
What Happens After Your BMW Gets a VIN?
Once production begins, your BMW is assigned a VIN, and you can use that to:
- Track shipping via cargo ship websites (if applicable)
- Apply for insurance
- Register the vehicle before delivery
The VIN also enables more detailed tracking through third-party apps and your dealership’s internal systems.
Tips for Tracking and Managing Your BMW Order
- Download the My BMW App: Useful for tracking progress and scheduling service later
- Contact BMW Genius regularly: They’re free and helpful
- Ask your dealer for internal updates: They can see data not available in the app
- Be patient during shipping: Port delays and customs can add days or weeks
Final Thoughts
Your BMW production number is the gateway to tracking every step of your car’s creation and delivery. Understanding how to interpret production statuses and timelines can help you stay informed, avoid surprises, and prepare for delivery. Whether you’re ordering an M car, a 3 Series, or a custom Individual build, knowing what to expect can make the experience more exciting—and less stressful.
Tip: Save your production number and VIN in a secure location. You’ll use them to track your order, confirm details, and even manage future service records.