Some things that would encourage proper handling would be a tip-n-tell, shockwatch, or similar, but they cost about a buck each so it's best for high value items.
http://www.uline.com/Grp_332/Damage-IndicatorsI think the 'delicate instruments', 'glass', and 'this side up' do help if they are real stickers and not just written by marker on the carton.
The 4" size makes it very visible. The labels cost about 6-8 cents each on a 500 pc roll, cheap enough to put several on the carton.
http://www.uline.com/Product/AdvSearchResult.aspx?keywords=fragile%20shipping%20label&BrowseGroup=25&SubGroups=1212&METHOD=BROWSE&view=ALL&TrackSearch=NThey used to sell an "insured" label but I don't see it right now. I liked that one and never had anything broken when I used those. Sort of sneaky when it was not really insured. Better than the carrier breaking your stuff and cheating you out of compensation as usual.
