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Label Packages as "Glass" Instead of "Fragile" for Better Handling


Ever get a package marked "fragile" that was obviously handled not so delicately? When shipping fragile items, you might have a better chance of it surviving intact by using a "glass" or "liquid" label.

Redditor wombatidea notes:

the word "FRAGILE" does not mean anything to someone in the shipping industry, however the word "GLASS" does, because nobody wants to break it because it is a huge pain to clean up. Also if you can do so without incurring an extra charge, write "LIQUID" because liquid items cannot be entered into most automated sort machines, and may help protect it from a lot of banging around.

The "fragile" label on your box might even make it more likely to be mishandled, according to a Popular Mechanics report.

Although the way your package is handled depends on the individual carriers and handlers, but if you must ship fragile items (or restricted ones), this tip might offer better protection. Don't forget to pack it very carefully as well.

What do you wish your customers knew? I'll start... | Reddit via Thought Catalog

Photo by mrbill.