The ship date is often real conservative. My system arrived long before the expected arrival date, but given the launch of Windows Vista and Dell's inability to handle the load of the larger demand (they didn't plan for such a large demand--at least from what appears to be posted by purchasers in the forums), I'd say just be patient. It will likely be there on time because the people having issues are in the Vista express upgrade program, your system is a different division as it's brand new and Vista should be pre-installed.

Dell shipping date is usually on time or will arrive a little earlier. But when a new hot item is released with Dell then it might be delayed.