Actually, the problem with ordering from Tamiya wasn't because I had to call first ......the actual problems were :
1- Tamiya's website rejects P.O. Box orders
2-my precaution in 2010 of placing a fraud alert on my CC for personal security reasons meant that Tamiya's website automatically rejected the order-
I had to open a new account in a local bank so I could buy from Tamiya
3- I did do a last minute call to check if Tamiya had enough items in stock as the actual kit had been discontinued and parts availability was limited
( a dozen 1/ 25 Pz.Kpfw V upper hulls - on sale for $3 each vs. $16 normal price, spare poly caps, decals, a book )
but I called only after the previous two difficulties were solved.
4- After checking availability, .I completed the transaction online using my new CC
I would not have been able to order if I did not open a new CC.
No other on-line company software has rejected my CC card because of the security alert. Presumably, Tamiya is being extra careful for customer assurance reasons