Reputation Merch - Possible Timeline? How does it work?

Hi all! I am a huge Swiftie, ever since her debut album. However, I am very very new to buying official merch and navigating her official channels/website. I was hoping someone could help me understand how it works:

1. When she announces the release date for Reputation TV, is her merch usually on the website when the album drops or when the announcement happens? Is the actual release date the same date to expect merch is available? Or does it happen before the release? Do cardigans come on the website way before or after? What has the timeline been for the last few albums?

2. What is the best way to stay in-the-know about merch, music releases, concert tickets? Is there a newsletter/email marketing? Or just keep eyes on her website/Instagram/Reddit?

Thanks so much, fellow Swifties! And if you have other tips and tricks I’d appreciate it so much - maybe I’m not asking the right questions for the right answers haha!