This bed was very easy to assemble.  Upon taking it out of the box, I noticed one of the poles was bent and the headboard was scratched.  The bed wasn't terribly expensive so I am keeping it.  I do like the look of the bed.  We wanted to use a memory foam mattress on this so we will need to get a box spring but if you get the right mattress you would not need one.  My son really likes it so that is the main thing.  I did chat with customer service and they gave me a 10% discount to keep the headboard as is.  I am glad they offered something.