Love these mugs!  Each set of 4 was well packaged in a form-fitted Styrofoam insert within a heavy-duty cardboard box.  That box may have even been packed inside of a slightly larger box - can't remember.  I've had them for several weeks and they have held up very well to the dishwasher and microwave.  Color was exactly as expected.  I bought the turquoise and the lime, and they are perfect for large cans of soup (like Campbell's Chunky), or adult-sized portions of chili or stew.