This bed was like a big puzzle to assemble.  It took us about 3 hours as others have said but I think it was worth it.  My husband, who is an experienced carpenter and usually does not bother with directions, was reduced to going step by step through the process.  In the end we only made one mistake that doesnt show and was rectified with a power drill.  I love the bed.  Its sturdy and pretty much exactly what I had in mind for our guest room.