That's an excellent question we hear often! The answer is: it depends on the specific bench you choose, but most require *some* assembly. Let me break it down for you like a real person would.
Many of our popular wooden, metal, and composite material benches are shipped in a "knocked-down" (KD) or flat-pack format. This is done for very practical reasons—it significantly reduces shipping costs, prevents damage during transit, and makes handling the packages much easier. For these items, you can expect to spend 20 to 45 minutes with a basic toolkit (usually just a hex key and maybe a screwdriver) following clear, step-by-step instructions. It's typically a straightforward process of attaching the legs to the seat or connecting a few main components.
However, we also offer a selection of benches that come either fully assembled or with minimal assembly required. For instance, some heavy-duty cast aluminum or wrought iron benches might arrive in one or two large pieces that simply need to be bolted together. We always label these clearly as "Minimal Assembly" or "Ready-to-Assemble" on our product pages.
My best advice? Always check the "Product Specifications" or "Shipping Details" section on the listing for the exact "Assembly Required" note. We pride ourselves on being transparent about this. So, whether you enjoy a quick DIY project or prefer a bench you can place immediately, we likely have the perfect option for your patio, garden, or pathway.