First off know the source, there are a lot of fakes out there so be careful and do some research on them like; how long have they been around, where do they ship from, what shipping methods they use, do you know other sources that use them, did you find them on a google search, do they own or work at the company or are they a middle man. All of these things will help to know if what you are getting is real and good and if the pack is going to make it through customs. A high minimum order is kind of scary, good sources will sell by the gram and not have a minimum order at all.
Brewing does take a good start up fund too, for just a beginner I would say around a grand will buy all you need to start out.
Thanks
TMM