The size of the packaging is surprisingly small, but when I took it out of the box to expand I found the base to be very sturdy and it helps solve some problems I had with using the mattress on a regular box spring. I had a lot of flex with my old box spring and that is now all gone with the new base. It is actually easier to get into and out of bed. When I sit on the bed to dress it no longer feels like an old overused couch. These guys do it right.