Pre-selling has rules, and if done incorrectly, it can result in consumer fraud and even mail fraud accusations. One of the most important concerns is the length of time between taking money and delivering. That's where the trade organization becomes so valuable. There are trade newsletters, books, symposia for the business. And Mikki must join.
Every library has a book of associations that lists several in each field.
And a few searches on the Web won't hurt. Inventory Loans and Factoring The Uniform Commercial Code, or UCC, is the law that governs security interests in inventory. Yes, there are banks and other lenders that will take inventory as collateral. If you don't pay up, they seize the goods. Believe it or not, many goods are not paid for by customers.