DAMAGED during shipping: a few minor nicks and bangs plus 3 out of 4 hinges. had to run to hardware store and buy replacements. nothing substantial enough to hinder assembling. 
ASSEMBLY: was somewhat easy to assemble, except the detail is difficult to make out in the pictures and there are no written instructions. spend 80% time prepping for assembly and it should go together rather smoothly. NOTE pay attention to the two #11 pieces; how they are drilled determines how they are attached. to #s 8,9 & 10.