Luggage Labels

A selection of baggage labels provided for First Class passengers. Once on-board, baggage could be sent to a number of locations depending on its owner’s needs. Labels that read, ‘Wanted State Room’ were sent to the passenger’s private cabin. Suitcases that carried a ‘Not Wanted’ label told the baggage handlers that this piece of luggage was not needed on the voyage and could be stored in the ship’s hold for the entire duration of the journey. Some ships had a special baggage room to which passengers could send anything not needed immediately on the voyage, allowing passengers to gain access to extra baggage at set times during the day. Colour-coded labels helped baggage handlers to separate and distribute items more efficiently.