This was packaged well and arrived in perfect condition.  It did take some time to put together, but went together beautifully as well.  I had read other reviews saying that not all the holes matched up, but I did not have that issue.  You could probably get it up with just one person, but an extra set of hands is always helpful.  I plan to purchase another one as soon as I can for my parents.  They saw mine, loved it and immediately wanted one.