We opted to assemble the bed ourselves and found out that everything needed to be put together. Three hours from the time we started, we were about to attach the ladder and finish the project when we realized the slats for both beds should not have been attached at that side of the bed because it blocked the screw holes to attach the ladder. Not too big a deal, but annoying all the same. The boys are really happy with it and it looks great! My advice, Spring for the assembly fee!