We read previous reviews and most people said that they loved the island, but there was always something broken in the box when it arrived. We took a chance because it seemed to be just what we were wanted. We were thrilled as we went through the box and took out each piece. Everything was perfectly intact and well packed. My husband is very mechanically inclined and he was impressed by the clarity of the directions and ease of assembly. It definitely took both of us and it did take two hours. We are delighted with this island; it's exactly what we hoped it would be.