This mattress arrived in a small compact box which was very convenient. Its truly surprising how a gel foam mattress fits into such a small package. Once its rolled out you just remove it from the plastic cover. I would like to say it takes a full two days for it to fully rise. The mattress is quite comfortable and cool to the touch. It is a medium firm mattress and I can truly say that sleeping on this mattress has given me better quality sleep. I would definitely recommend this mattress.