Sorry for the reply to an old post.
As for IPSF
I did... they offered free shipping with certain packages so I thought I'd give it a go vs GARF. But then again I probably paid for it in the product prices but at least I got the illusion of free shipping LOL.
I ordered sand activator, worms, stuff for my macroalgae packs for my refugium, snails/hermits, clams, spaghetti worms, pods, ministars etc. All basic tank starter stuff. I had read on other forums about customers raving about the extras they threw in. I didn't see any extras at all. Just what I ordered - fair enough I suppose but I was hoiping for a surprise.
My order came in promptly and they tracked it very well and everything arrived in good shape. The quantities of the items seemed a bit skimpy for $200 worth of stuff. 6 of this 3 of that etc. Most of it of course disappeared in the sand and LR in my new tank. But that's what it's supposed to do. Can't say I'm displeased, just not overwhelmed.
I've ordered from GARF previously, but also ended up paying lots for shipping for some grunge and janitors.
Guess my opinion is "indifferent" If a NH local shop had all the stuff I wanted (I checked), I'd have gone locally instead.