>>>Once a CD is on a store shelf, the label and the distributor have both been paid for it.<<<

Not entirely true. The distributor and then the label (by the distributor) are basically credited, until the CDs are actually sold. I am sure you are definitely aware of return policies...

When I worked at an indie label it was always exciting to see really good ship numbers but then have some problem arise and not be able to market and promote the release properly and then see 90% of the units come back. That sucks. We released The Rembrandts' Lost Together CD. Very nice ship numbers. The street date for the disc was I think September 25....2001.