My order came in three boxes, and while the instructions were not hard, they werent the easiest, either. I did only need one tool--a flat head screwdriver, unless you want to use the L bracket anchors for the frame. The holes dont come pre-drilled, so youll need a drill if you want to use it. I had trouble with one screw on the black anchor that secures the headboard to the base frame, but other than that, installation was pretty easy. The only downfall I see is that if your house is dusty, you will need to vacuum the headboard often. Oh, and around the tufted part of the bed, I do see little white threads from where the buttons were sewed on, but they arent really that noticeable if you arent looking for them.