I don't mean to get into the ARF vs Kit debate but I am pretty comfortable determining the difference.  If I open the box and covering isn't anywhere in the box much less on any portion of the airframe, that's the first sign that it's a kit.  The second sign is if I open the box and there is nothing in it that that looks like an airplane or any substantial part there of.  That pretty much does it for me. 

One last point, in my opinion, one builds kits and assembles ARFs.  And just to be clear, I have no problem with either.  The point of this hobby is to have fun and how you get there is unimportant to me.

I hope you are all having fun!