I recently called CZ's reservation line to reconfirm a flight and ask for a seat assignment. I was told by the CSR there's no way to reserve a seat and that they do NOT give seat assignments until check in. I find it hard to believe since almost all the airlines I've flown have seat assignments prior to check in(with exception of Southwest), especially for transpacific flights. The only tip she gave me was to arrive early for the flight to get first dibs on the seats.

Is this standard operating procedure, or standard bs?

Any insight appreciated!