Lots of staples. bottom of headboard - they missed where they were stapling.  It comes in one box, you assemble side wings, during the process.
Extra parts are in a zipper at the back- great storage place for valuables later :-)
I am handy but needed help assembling- took about 45 minutes.  Bed looks nice, serves its purpose. Dark gray has a blue undertone. give it an 8/10.. because fabric could have been pulled tighter on headboard- I probably won't notice it after a while.