I just noticed that a few of you have pre-ordered cameras (and one Kindle DX) through the Amazon affiliate links on this site. First, I just want to say, thank you! Ordering from those links doesn't change your price and the bit of money that comes from Amazon helps me fund gear tests and other projects like the Camera Work Forums. The main reason for this post, however, is to share a bit about pre-ordering from Amazon since I have plenty of experience in this area.

Amazon says that they fulfill pre-orders in the order they are received, and this is generally the case. When you pre-order, your order goes into a queue, and Amazon adheres to the sequence of the orders. What is important to know, however, is that any change in your order will move you to the end of the queue. For example, let's say that you pre-order a Panasonic GH1 kit (includes 14-150mm lens) today and choose the "Free Super Saver Shipping" option. Then in two weeks you change your mind and decide overnight shipping would be better. If at that point you call Amazon, the customer service representative will tell you that you can change shipping methods without going to the end of the queue. I know they say this because I've asked them. It isn't correct. Every order placed prior to your change of shipping method will be filled before yours.

With relatively low volume items like GH1, I have had best results pre-ordering early and avoiding any changes to the order. That way one has the best chance of shipping with the first batch received at Amazon.