It took about two hours for me to put it together. I thought it was going to be wobbly, but after it was all together, it was quite sturdy. I treated it with tung oil to protect it from the elements. I did not put in the shelves as I plan to put shovels, rakes, etc. in it. The shelves gave the floor more support. I have them there in case I change my mind and want to add them later. Overall, I am pleased.