Every time I ordered tires online it has been a mistake. Local shops are usually close enough on price, aren't pissed you are bringing in someone else's product, and are there for you if you have an issue. Tire rack is a good place to get reviews and a rough idea on pricing.
Prices look good on the tire rack, but shipping is always over 100+ bucks on 4 tires. A year ago I could not find Blizzaks locally for my Subaru. I ordered from the tirerack, and they arrived the next day. I took them to the big tire shop in town, and like you said they were kinda pissed, and zinged me with mounting. Then a week later I was getting gas at another tire shop/gas station and they would have beat my "deal" by over 100 bucks. So that was a lesson.
