I received this rug very well protected for transport during shipment. The ends of the rug were each wrapped in a layer of heavy paper - not quite cardboard, and the whole rug was wrapped in a heavy duty plastic. These details assure you receive your rug without dirt or scuff marks during handling and shipping. The rug is beautiful and very soft, with the short nap I had expected. It was represented perfectly in the photograph on the website. I would definitely order this rug again!