Overcap for container

Abstract

Several embodiments of overcaps for containers are shown for protecting lid portions of container during shipment, storage, and heating. The overcaps are readily releasable from the containers without undue stress.

I claim:  
     
         1 . An overcap for a container, said overcap including an end panel for overlying a container end and including a depending, peripheral skirt portion extending generally along a wall portion of the container, said skirt portion including a plurality of spaced, inwardly extending ledge portions for underlying a lip or flange forming part of the container, said ledge portion providing retention means for maintaining said overcap upon the container during shipping, storing and shelving of the container, a plurality of spaced, generally parallel slots in said skirt portion for providing a handle portion for withdrawing at least one of said ledge portions from engagement under the lip or flange of the container.  
     
     
         2 . An overcap as defined in  claim 1  wherein there is provided a series of three ledge portions substantially equally spaced about said skirt portion.  
     
     
         3 . An overcap as defined in  claim 1  wherein said handle portion extends below a lowermost edge of said skirt portion.