On Sun, 20 Sep 2009 07:16:41 -0500, Melba's Jammin'
> wrote:

>In article
>,
> Deidzoeb > wrote:
>
>> I've tried searching the web, this group, and various home canning
>> websites for info or advice about shipping FILLED jars of home canned
>> goods. But the only things I find are jars for sale, and the shipping
>> and handling costs of that.
>>
>> I'm planning to mail some half-pints of zucchini relish to relatives.
>> I know to write "FRAGILE - GLASS" on the outside and use enough
>> padding to keep the jars safe. Probably leaving the rings on will keep
>> the lids from coming off. But does it cause problems if the jars are
>> laid on their side during transit? I doubt that writing "THIS SIDE UP"
>> will guarantee that really stay that way during shipping.
>>
>> Have you ever shipped juicy items like this? Got any tips to share?
>>
>> Thanks!
>
>I have done it, regularly and frequently, although I mostly mail jams
>and jellies. I can put 12 half-pint jars in a USPS large flat rate box
>and send anywhere in the US for ~$14.
>
>I use the box and dividers that the empty jars were packed in.
>
>I wrap each jar in bubble wrap and put it into one of the 12 sections.
>The box just fits in the flat rate box where I have already put a layer
>of styro peanuts.
>
>I put more bubble wrap and styro peanuts at the long edges of the inner
>box and try to tuck a bit at the corners, too. I cover the top of the
>jars with old newspapers and top with more packing peanuts.
>
>I tape the box closed at all edges with clear packaging tape.
>
>I make yellow 3-5 2x3" labels that say "FRAGILE - contains liquid - JAM.
>I put one of those labels on top of the box and the others on a couple
>other sides. I use clear packaging tape to cover those labels and the
>address label.

Many years ago, I had a postie working part time for me at the shop.
He always said that to postal employees, Fragile or Handle With Care
labels simply meant Throw Underhand.

Ross.