Just talked on livechat. So. not. helpful. I won't post the whole long thing, but here are some highlights:
Lan: Unfortunately, the item is still on back order. When the item is in stock, we will then process to ship it out. When that happens we will then email you an update. Unfortunately, since this is a pre-order we are not able to edit any changes to . That means we are not able to change the prices or offer any discounts. Until the order changes to an active order, we may be able. As of now, there is nothing we can do to the order. The price is as stated at the time of purchase. I do apologize for any inconvenience.
When asked about even an approximate date:
Lan: Unfortunately, we do not have a Sales Department and are not given that information. The only way for us or anyone to know when the item is back in stock is once the website shows in stock.
For those of us who pre-ordered back when shipping wasn't free:
Lan: Unfortunately, we can not guarantee any refunds. However, the order is placed is how much the item would be. Only if you place at the price you want is how you get that price.
(okay, anybody get that? anybody? wha?)
Lan: Thank you for contacting us. I hope you have an Eggcellent day!
I might try to find it a a B&M, but the Costco near me is out of stock, and who wants to pay full price at a normal store? I also considered putting in a new preorder with the free shipping, but then who knows when that one would arrive.