Proper way to transport those things is with the stalk stuck into some styrofoam, or with 2 pieces of styrofoam rubber banded around the stalk. Then the whole thing floats upside down in your bag of water. That keeps the tissue from resting against the bag with the full weight of the skeleton going through it. Maybe I'm reading too much into your post, but it just sounds like they threw it in the bag with some water. If they did that, most likely it was on it's deathbed before it even hit your tank.
I know this doesn't help you now, but figured I'd just throw it out there for you for the next time. Wouldn't hurt to politely inquire with the management of where you bought it regarding the handling you witnessed, and the fact that it was pretty much DOA.