This lamp traveled halfway around the world to reach me. It arrived safely due to very good packaging, including styrofoam surrounded by plywood, all in a heavily taped cardboard box. It was somewhat difficult getting it free from all of that packaging. There were no assembly instructions, but putting it together was simple and straight forward. My only disappointment is that the lamp is taller than I would have liked, but I was able to accommodate it. The shade is lovely.