PACKING 313 



Compared on the basis of equal quantity the relative costs of 

 filling the two packages and handling them are from 73 to 83 cents 

 for the barrel and from $l.l8| to $1.36^ for three boxes. It 

 takes longer to fill a box than it does to pack a barrel, for a higher 

 degree of skill is necessary, as will be shown later. It is likely, 

 therefore, that four packers and graders will in a specified time 

 put up a fourth or perhaps a third more apples in barrels than 

 in boxes. 



In transportation and handling, there is a slight saving in favor 

 of the barrel, which can be handled by one man in about the same 

 time that is required to handle half the quantity of fruit in boxes. 

 So, too, in loading onto cars and steamships, and in handling 

 on docks, in auction rooms and warehouses, the barrel involves 

 less labor. 



Most men would much prefer to handle boxes than barrels, 

 because boxes are much lighter, requiring less effort or strength 

 on the part of the laborer. Where the boxes are particularly 

 smooth they do not offer the hand as good a hold as do the ends 

 of barrels, with their protruding parts. 



