This rug shipped & arrived 1 week earlier than expected in a sturdy thick plastic wrap with the ends covered well. It rolled out perfectly for us. My husband noticed a smell, assuming it’s from being rolled/wrapped for awhile, but went away right away. Not too many lumps to flatten out. As soon as we tucked it under our furniture, it flattened right away so I did not need to purchase a rug pad. The colors & design are as shown. When you walk on it, itms very soft in your feet. I like that this rug isn’t thick & not cheaply thin. Love the quality of this rug & goes beautifully with our rustic gray themed living room. Worth the money!!