Yes it's true, some of the wood dowels needed to assemble this item don't fit snuggly.  But the problem is easily remedied (not that a customer should have to) and since I really needed this bench here's what I did.  I got some Elmer's wood glue from the hardware store for a few bucks, wetted some thick paper with it and wrapped the problem dowels to make them thicker.  Problem solved.  And since I had the glue handy I put some in all of the connection points and let the bench sit for a few days before moving or using it.  Seems to be doing fine.