allowed them to order additional supplies when needed. A few respon-

dents stated that rail cars gave them some flexibility since they

could keep the cars for a longer period than trucks, and thus provide

additional storage space. However, this was a minor point and did

not offset the time and cost disadvantages of rail shipment.

 Containers


 Respondents were asked to summarize their experiences and pre-

ferences for the main types of shipping containers now in use for

celery stalks, the wooden wirebound crate and the waxed carton. Only

a very few retailers had received styrofoam or plastic containers, so

no detailed comparisons are possible for these containers.

 Both wholesale and retail personnel were asked to compare the

wirebound crate with the waxed carton as to effects on celery quality,

arrival condition, and handling characteristics. Additionally,

retailers were asked to compare disposal costs and problems for the

two containers. All personnel were asked to evaluate and compare

each type of Florida container with the same type from California.

Finally, respondents were asked for preferences and comments on the

size and weight of containers now used for Florida celery stalks.

 Overall, more firms accounting for a larger volume of stalks,

preferred cartons to crates in the three study areas (Table 9).

Nearly half the retailers contacted, representing over half the volume,

preferred the waxed carton. Five retail firms preferred crates and

five were indifferent to container type. Smaller firms leaned to the

crate, as shown in the volume share in Table 9.