Guide
Average flat pack assembly times
Some flat pack furniture can be assembled quickly, while larger wardrobes and storage systems may take several hours.
The biggest factors are the number of parts, drawer systems, doors, wall fixing requirements and the clarity of the instructions.
Typical assembly times
| Furniture type | Estimated time |
|---|---|
| Bedside cabinet | 30 to 60 minutes |
| Chest of drawers | 1 to 3 hours |
| TV unit | 1 to 2 hours |
| Desk | 1 to 2 hours |
| Double bed frame | 1 to 2 hours |
| Wardrobe | 2 to 6 hours |
| IKEA PAX wardrobe | 4+ hours depending on size |
| Garden furniture set | 1 to 3 hours |
What affects assembly time?
- Size of the furniture
- Number of drawers or doors
- Whether wall fixing is needed
- Quality of the instructions
- Missing or damaged parts
- Whether multiple items are being assembled
- Available space to work
Why some furniture takes much longer
Large wardrobes and drawer units often take the longest because they include many individual panels, rails, hinges, cams and fittings.
Some furniture also needs to be built in stages before standing upright, which requires extra care and space.
Is it worth hiring someone?
Flat pack assembly can quickly become frustrating, especially with larger furniture or unclear instructions.
Hiring a handyman can help avoid damaged panels, misaligned doors, stripped fixings and wasted time.
It is also useful when furniture needs fixing safely to walls, particularly wardrobes and tall storage units.
Final thoughts
Simple furniture may only take under an hour, while larger wardrobes and storage systems can take several hours. If you want the furniture assembled properly and safely, it can be worth getting professional help.
Quick answer
Most flat pack furniture takes between 1 and 3 hours to assemble, but large wardrobes and storage systems can take much longer.
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