I've put together a lot of Sauder furniture in my time since my parents always drafted me to do it since I was a child. This unit seems quite sturdy, but buyer beware if both drawers are open it will tip forward. 

The sides of the unit are very sturdy. As well as the drawers, but the shelves inserts into the drawers lack substance. Over time, the cardboard inserts WILL sag. Be careful to rest your books or heavy unmentionables on the table top. This nightstand looks great and is pretty sturdy, but for anything substantial like books (because I I'm a massive reader) isn't made for long-term storage. The capacity for the shelf is supposedly 14lbs, but I don't believe it. 


The putting together of the unit takes an hour to two hours at most; the instructions are for intermediate to beginner level.