I unpacked the parts for assembly.  All were there, but there was inconsistency in the stain on one piece and a scratch on another.  I began assembling the steps and the tops of the 1st 3 post-connectors screwed off of the posts rendering them useless.  I have written the company and will re-post here with results.  If they make it right, I'm good.  But this was a very disappointing experience.  BTW, I have assembled many pieces of furniture using these types of connectors and have never encountered such cheap hardware.  This is not a matter of my inexperience.