Except for unusual cases, there is no reason to think that the trees and shrubs would need to become established before winter in your climate zone. In zone 6 areas (like the coldest mountainous areas in far western NC), the ground doesn't freeze deeply or for very long periods of time. The exceptions to this would be tender, marginally-hardy plants, or, certain fleshy rooted trees like pawpaws or some magnolias. Most trees could be planted anytime that the ground wasn't frozen solid, without a problem.

As for the selection at your local nursery, only someone in your area familiar with your local nurseries could answer that one. I'd suggest a shopping trip!

Below is a link that you may find helpful.

Here is a link that might be useful: Planting a Tree or Shrub

Thanks Brandon,
If I go shopping now what's the best way to hold the trees/shrubs until planting time that could be several weeks away. I could hill them up in deep mulch if that works best.
Thanks for your advice.

the best way to hold them... ????

is to find the manager.. and ask him to put SOLD tags on them.. and let him do it...

either pay for them immediately ... or ask if he wants a small deposit ...

the most important variable in winter.. is PROPER WINTER WATERING....

dormant trees dont need a lot of water... but as transplants.. they can NEVER dry out ... water too much in cold soil.. and you may rot roots ...

how that all works in your soil.. is for you to figure out ... but if you describe such.. including the perk time... we can ball park it for you .... [perk: how long the hole you dug holds water.. before draining away .. this defines why clay is bad, but thats another story .. unless you have clay soil ]

so start by digging your first hole.. fill it with water.. and find out how long before the water is gone... and do it a second time ... let us know ...

ken