I ordered the  loveseat (2), Arm Chair (2) and 2 Ottermans and just got to put them together, Yes they have to be assembled. Had no problem with the assembly. It just takes a little time. In my case all of the holes lined up perfectly. Compared to other sets on the market, you are getting a good set for the price. With expensive sets you will get larger pieces with wider arms and thicker cushions and heavier framing. This set (pieses) serves the purpose and again if I wanted to spend 3 to 5 times the price I would have purchased a different set. With accent cushions or in the future putting a different fabric with thicker foam will certainly enhance the set. Again, the set was worth the price and the purpose it was purchased for.....