.... there was a huge chunk (about and 1.5" long, half inch wide and deep) cut out of one of the vertical supports, and it wasn't from shipping (the box was fine). Given the weight, and the fact that it was nearly constructed when I noticed it, I figure I'll try to repair it, rather than break it down and return it.

Further, assembly requires a lot of glue, much more than you're given by the manufacturer. (Simple wood glue works.)

Complaints aside, the shelf is much sturdier than expected, and functions well as a free-standing unit.