Can We Talk 2

Open Here

         I have tried following package instructions, but either the directions are badly written, or the packages are badly designed, or I am extremely dense. I try ripping off the top above the red line on a resealable package, but it still won't open. I have used scissors to cut a straight line, but it still doesn't work. I frequently have to cut below the plastic zipper to get it open.

         There are household cleaners and medicines that require you push down while turning or squeeze while turning to get the top off. You end up spilling and possibly using language you don't want the children to hear.

         I can seldom open a child's toys without retrieving tools from the garage to cut or untwist wires and plastic straps. To prevent shoplifting, companies pack almost everything in vacuum sealed plastic, from ink pens to scissors, to batteries. And if your package comes by mail, it's inside other packaging, then wrapped or boxed again. You can see why shipping and handling cost so much. It's all the wrapping and boxing and sealing.

         Why have prices gone up so much? The food content in a bag or box may cost $1.00, labor and materials, but the packaging will cost another $1.00. They still want to pay overhead and make a profit. Then the distributor wants his share for handling it. Did I forget to mention they have to fill the bag or box (cereal for instance) with air to give a cushion while shipping? The air may be a precaution, but it also makes it look like you're getting more than you really are buying.

         Packaging is important to keep products safe, to aid in shipping, and to allow inventory to be kept as accurately as possible. But sometimes you wonder if the people who design these packages ever have to open them themselves? Does the guy trying to cut costs in the factory ever have to open a bottle of his company, or assemble a toy on a birthday or make a sandwich in a hurry? I think it should be a requirement of his or her job.