Ive never paid anything except for packs and never heard of a CD who's charged for this (and I've spoken to about 10 altogether including my actual CDCs). They can charge for the booklet etc. at their discretion but this 'start up' fee is not a CD thing, they must just be deciding to try and make some extra cash! Personally I'd find another one as wouldn't like the idea I was gonna be ripped off by the person who' sposed to be supporting me...
But, as Mike (ice moose) said to me very wisely yesterday, you're paying for the service and support, not just the packs. SO if you think this CDC is worth it, you should go for it. If not, find another
xxx