The set arrived in one very large crate. Well packaged, with no damage. The nuts and bolts part of the packaging is particularly well organized and clearly labeled. Extra hardware was included. Instructions are pretty good. Some of the metal round tubes and square tubes can be a bit of a challenge to sort out and identify. Look for the yellow sheets in the instruction book that helps sort it all out. Once assembled the set feels robust and heavy duty. I would recommend anchoring the legs of the swing set if this is used by older kids. Also I will be adding traction strips to the metal ladder rungs. The metal ladder rungs are well painted, but with a high gloss finish so a bit slippery.