I've been ordering from LM for a good few years now, from 2 different continents.
The key to ordering from them is:
- is you need it urgently look only at the "In Stock" items
- "Available" means they can source it, i.e. it's either not an item they normally hold stock of or are simply out of stock.
- communication: before you place your order send them an email and enquire as to stock levels, and in the case of "available" items what the lead time is or when they expect their next order. And don't be afraid to follow up on your order status once it's placed. I find them really responsive to enquiries (bear the time zone differences in mind - I'm approx 3 hours ahead of them, but you may be 18 hrs behind them...)
- always have them split the order, i.e. send what is in stock. else your "in stock" item may suddenly become "available" while you're waiting on an outstanding item.
- if you have placed your order, they've processed the payment, and you really can't wait any longer (I consider waiting 2 weeks too long), cancel the order for that item and ask for a refund. Personally I take store credit as I know I'll order from them again - that said I've had them refund to my c/card before as well.
HTH
Rudi