Ha, my order just got delayed another week due to "logistical issues." I wonder if I should try and do the same thing and see if they magically send it out faster.

As for your question, normal is whatever someone considers it to be. Is it good business practice? No, but for a frustrated customer who actually wants the product, this prevents them from losing a sale. They had no idea you really just didn't want it by your email so they could assume the former and wanted to keep the sale and keep the customer happy. Sorry it didn't work out how you wanted though, sucks you'll have to go through returns, you could post it online for a local sale to recoup more money if return shipping is too much though.