Credit cards are the wave of the future. They defer payment for 1 month and mail ordering places won't charge you until they ship goods out. Credit card companies summarize your charges and will help you in disputes with the store. For other anime goods So far, California is the best place for anime goods. That means ask for catalogs and ask for advice on the net.
Some shops are much better than others in both price and service.
Call for availability. Some items are out of stock. Call to verify price. Call to make the order. Sending an order form places you in a serious disadvantage.