I would say that this is almost always the case, but the retailer (both online and in shops) usually gives an extra inch or so to make up for the difference. It's very hard, almost impossible, to make an accurate and straight cut if the fabric is not straight on the bolt, which happens a lot. But if you're actually short of fabric, you have a legitimate complaint. What actually surprises me is that you didn't get a response from either retailer. That doesn't speak well for their customer service.