[header] How to put a cot together [title] Take an inventory. [step] The cot should have three separate pieces: a metal frame with canvas attached to it and two separate metal rails. [substeps] When you first get the cot, the primary metal frame will likely be folded up. 
You should be able to see the canvas attached to the frame as it is folded, though. The two separate metal rails will be used for support, and they will slide into the ends of the attached canvas once the frame has been opened up.