I have purchased my stuff from 3-4 different suppliers so that I can evaluate quality, service, prices, etc. The BIG cost is shipping! So be careful to note where your supplier is located and determine your TOTAL cost.
All of my boxes have been purchased from Rossman because I don't want to paint them. Would rather have them grey-out so they are not as noticeable by the neighbors! Pricing is probably a little higher because they are cypress and the quality is pretty good. Fred Rossman will really bend over backwards to make sure that you're happy. This past weekend, Fred was at the NC summer beek meeting and I bought a dozen boxes from him. He was sold out of some other hive components (i.e. tops, bottom boards, etc.) and agreed to ship them to me FREE!
All of my frames and foundation were purchased from Brushy and they too have been pretty good on quantity and price. Have not really noticed any "bad" quality of the wood other than the occasional blemish. But I think that's normal............mother nature doesn't grow perfect trees! Brushy's service is pretty good as well. Last December, Brushy had a special sale where they would ship anything east of the Mississippi FREE of freight charges. Good time to buy those heavy items (if you live east of the Mississippi River)!
My suits, hats, veil, smoker, and tools were purchased from Betterbee. I have been satisfied with all pricing, quality, and service from BB. They have been responsive to my questions and the quality is good, WITH ONE EXCEPTION. The frame removal tool that I purchased from BB recently does not fit wooden top bars. BB tells me that it is really made for the plastic frames. Their description in their catalog does not say anything about it not fitting the standard, wooden top bar. This is the only issue that I have had with BB and I'm trying to work something out on this one! Regardless, I would still purchase future stuff from them. Incidentally, I bought a frame removal tool from Fred R. this past weekend and it fits the wooden top bar just fine!
Just my thoughts!