Well here is the paraphrased version... First of all I order from the internet several times a week for both work and personal items. eCommerce is certainly not rocket science, but it does need to be coupled with a capable supporting staff and backbone.
1. Placed order for 3 items on 1/21/08 was a bit surprised the shipping was as much as it was but no biggies went ahead with it anyway
2. Received an order confirmation almost instantly and in stock verification. Credit card was also charged full amount the day of the order.
3. Never received a shipping confirmation, so I investigated a bit and found some VERY small print explaining that they reserve the right to not ship items for up to 4 or 5 weeks. This is unheard of in this day and age but again, whatever.
4. 5 weeks came and went no product and no shipping confirmation
5. I sent two emails without response, they were both very professional and just basically went about askign where my order might be and when I might expect it.
6. I have been emailing them on a regular basis for the last 3 weeks now and finally they responded (Oh yes I forgot to mention, NO Phone number!) Their repsponse was we don't have one of the items in stock. Again I said no problem ship me the items you have and just ship the remaining item when it gets in.
7. Did NOT hear back... I was assuming I would have the partial order at my door any day, NOT the case.
8. I emailed again and got the response it is company policy to not ship partial orders. At this point almost two months later I told them cancel the order and I will be glad to order from one of their competitors.
I am not a horn blower by nature but I know I would want to know about an operation like this prior to ordering.
My apoligies for the novel...
Happy Shopping (Elsewhere!)