Abstract: A method of compactly packaging an upholstered seat for shipment includes providing an upholstered seat bottom including a base with a top surface, a front edge, a rear edge, a first end, a second end, a first upwardly extending side arm attached to the first end, and a second upwardly extending side arm attached to the second end. The method further includes providing an upholstered seat back configured for secure attachment to the seat bottom after shipment, and compactly arranging the seat bottom and the seat back within a substantially rectilinear shipping carton. The upholstered seat can include at least one bracket assembly for irremovably attaching the seat back to the seat bottom after shipment.