Interesting thread.
Interesting, because I purchased what I thought were unopened kits of a Magnum-D SR-71 (kit #5349) and the Space Shuttle Columbia (kit #5343). They were advertised as "new," so I assumed they were unopened.
I should have asked to be sure...
The kits were both 'buy it now's and were about $30 each. Shipping was about $10.00...EACH!
Again, I assumed that if I bought both, shipping would be discounted...wrong again!
The kits arrived in their original packages both opened. No container padding. Some pieces loose in the box.
Both kits were missing launch lugs and engine tubes (had the CR's, hooks, and engine blocks, though), and there were only 4 tape discs between them (SR-71 has 2 'chutes, Columbia has just 1), and all the main BTs were damaged (only one can't really be fixed).

Moral: Don't assume anything.

I will build these; might as well, huh?
I need to ask Gordy if he has the stickers (gasp!) that come with the Columbia converted to decals. If he doesn't, he will shortly!

Allen