The item arrived in a well packed box and setup couldn't be easier. Unroll it, and plug it in. The ability to select the firmness has made all of the difference to me. I have tried it on plush and firm, and I find that firm is a much better sleep. I wanted an air mattress that wouldn't go flat during the night and with the never flat pump, it never happens. I have never once heard the pump kick on but I'm sure it does. The mattress fills and deflates quickly and rolls up to be placed in the carrying bag easily. I use a queen size sheet to cover the entire bed, sides included and it fits perfectly. As a temporary guest bed or an extra bed when travelling I would highly recommend the convenience, comfort and durability of this bed.