Although those particular sites don't cater to last-minute shoppers, others like www.lowes.com, www.sears.com and www.bestbuy.com can be lifesavers; they confirm availability and allow pickups in as little as two hours after an order is placed.

For some reason, I suddenly felt an urge to go to Amazon.com to confirm availability of the American Heart Association's "Low-Fat, Low-Cholesterol Cookbook."

Consumers should investigate their options and call ahead to confirm availability of coupon-eligible converter boxes on teh day you plan to shop.

Before selecting a preferred time period, you should first confirm availability of transportion to Round Island.

If you win, SkyAuction will confirm availability before charging your credit card.

Facilities Train rides are available seasonally and charges apply (please telephone in advance to confirm availability).

Call to confirm time and availability of tickets, which are free.

(By today many costumes are sold out, and I recommend phoning before buying to confirm availability.)

When I phoned Clothingstudio.com to confirm availability, I learned that an underwire style is available in three colors (black, navy and slate, $70).

Reservations are required, to confirm availability; some resorts may have a policy of advance payment.