This chest arrives fully assembled and VERY well-packaged; it is supported by firm styrofoam blocks on both sides as well as thick styrofoam strips on the front, back and top. The drawers and tray are padded with foam strips which keep them closed during shipping.
The chest is darker than shown in the pictures, it does not have the vibrant red color shown, but this was not a problem for me as I purchased it for a bedroom done primarily in a claret color. The wood color is less golden and more of a pecan color, leaning toward cherry, which also worked out quite well for me. I bought the chest for its functionality more than its form.
The construction on this piece is nothing short of magnificent - every surface is finished, with the exception of the underside of the top, and I had to take out a drawer and use a flashlight to determine that. The roomy drawers glide smoothly on their tracks, the pull-out tray offers plenty of extra real estate and the hardware is solidly attached.
While this piece is composed of MDF it is of exceptional quality; I have never seen a piece of furniture composed of MDF look this good, and I am NOT a fan of composite wood furniture by any means. I was prepared to be disappointed and I am delighted to say I was wrong. This piece is solid, heavy (the 80 pound weight description is dead-on!) and well worth the money.
This piece is true to the listed dimensions - please be sure to read them when considering your purchase. It is exactly what the title says it is - an accent chest. It should not be confused with a chest of drawers, if you need more space this item probably is not for you. If you're looking for a more compact item to use for a lingerie chest or for other accessory items I give this item my highest recommendation