Came in two boxes. Packaging was good- One leg did come in defected but wasn't a a big problem since I was able to use, but will get a replacement just in case. There were two brackets that were included I'm guessing for the sides to connect but no holes were drilled for them (we did leave these out.) The headboard does look taller in the picture.I have bottom (5in) mattress and plus a top mattress, however the bottom one hid well in the base of the bed. If you tighten all screws well enough then the bed doesn't make any noise. The material is interesting (not in a bad way) but it is true to its color (black). The nail trim is more brass then silver (I was hoping for silver-but ill work with it.)