Imaginative packaging with the arms stowed into the bottom. But this probably adds to the stiffness as this is not a soft plush lounging couch. But firm and modern looking which I was going for. My only complaint is the piping on the arms is offset to the outside a bit and there is an exposed pleat that could and should have been eliminated and hidden. It throws the fit and finish off. But I am probably the only one who looks at it to notice. My daughter thinks my office now looks like a 60's music producers office. I'm cool with that.