pre order is obviously taking a longer time than ready stock, thats why it call pre order. stock may from oversea.
normally there will be terms and condition to commit before a shopper willing to join.
seller should be able to give your updates on your order status (only conman you call it 'reason')

and under Trade Zone Helpdesk & Dispute Resolution Corner i can see alot of seller id run away with money being reported,but they dont get dispute tag. i think they should (though i understand this section is only to resolve dispute, but it should be a channel to 'catch' dispute too).

my2 cents

i think there is guideline for newbies to go tru. it is NOT recommended to buy from newbie and should look for safe trader tag. but i always see people buy from newbie due to the fact they want cheaper price. at the end of the day,they are on risk