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George Shirley

wrote:
> 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.

I have several friends locally that are current or retired postal
workers. They say the same thing but only throw underhand if the
supervisor is watching. Otherwise it's dribble and overhand.