We ordered two sets of these counter stools (4 stools total), and each set was shipped from a different location. One set was fine. The other looked like it may have been opened before and returned (based on the taping of the box). Cosmetic issues with that set, broken dowels, and one seat was more difficult to assemble than the other three (like the screw was stripped). Its not worth the trouble of returning, but disappointing because one set had no issues. Overall assembly wasnt too bad. We had enough extra part sets to manage with the missing dowels. Seem sturdy enough so far.