maybe my deets will reassure people that keep asking the same stuff?
*ordered 2 16GB black iphones approx 12:20am pacific on 9/14
*got confirmation of order, but said credit hold because I'm a new customer
*order number is 50xxx.
*got email confirmation at 3:23am pacific on 9/14 with credit hold removed
*9/14 afternoon status said: We received your order and it is in process. Expected Ship Date: 09/21/2012
*No preauthorization on my debit card.
*9/17 afternoon status said: Your order has been sent for processing. Date is blank now.
*Still no preauth listed on my online banking, but on 9/17 evening my available balance is $398 less than my current balance. (2 $199 phones with no tax, I live in Oregon).
*my order location is W779201 and I live in Oregon.
so even though I have no listed arrival date, I'm feeling good about still getting them on the 21st.

Thanks for all the info in this thread!