Shipping

Samples submitted to TVMDL for testing may be positive for disease. As such, it is important samples are shipped in manner that reduces the risk to the shipper, handlers, and laboratory staff.

Ship your samples with confidence and compliance

This section offers information on safe shipping of biologicals, infectious substances, or diagnostic specimens. The contents are to be used as a guide to assist properly trained shippers. The information provided does not meet the training requirements as required in the Department of Transportation 49 C.F.R. (§172.700 – 172.704). The shipper assumes total responsibility for complying with all applicable laws and regulations regarding the shipment of dangerous goods.

Packing the Shipment | Labeling the Package | Shipping the Package

TVMDL sells a variety of shipping and collection containers. If used as designed, shipping containers comply with all requirements for Category B biological substances.

close up of TVMDL patch on white lab coat

Patient specimen(s) collected directly from animals for research or diagnostic purposes in which there is minimal likelihood that pathogens are present.

Patient specimen(s) collected directly from animals for research or diagnostic purposes in which there is a reasonable expectation that pathogens are present.

See a list of Category A infectious substances.

If you suspect you have a Category A infectious substance, please contact us at 979.845.3414 or toll free at 1.888.646.5623.

Packing the Shipment

  1. Leak-proof primary receptacle (e.g., blood collection tube);
  2. Leak-proof secondary receptacle (e.g., zip-top bag);
    • Absorbent material sufficient to absorb entire specimen.
    • Additional means to maintain seal on formalin jars is preferred.
    • Cold packs, if needed, may be placed around the secondary packaging with additional absorbent material to absorb condensation.
  3. Sufficient cushioning to protect individual specimens and fill head space within the package.
  4. Rigid outer container (e.g., hard cooler, cardboard shipper with a Styrofoam liner). 
  5. Include a properly completed TVMDL Submission Form between the secondary and outer packaging.

Labeling the Package

  • The name, address, and telephone number of a responsible person.
  • Special Markings:
    • For “Exempt Animal Specimen,” this statement must be present on the outer package in letters at least 6 mm high. See example label below:
exempt animal specimen label
Exempt Animal Specimen Label
  • If shipping a “Biological Substance, Category B” specimen:
    • Indicate “Biological Substance, Category B” and “UN 3373” on the waybill, and
    • “Biological Substance, Category B” must be present in letters at least 6 mm high and must be marked on the outer package adjacent to a diamond-shaped UN3373 label.
UN3373 Biological Substance, Category B Label
UN3373 Biological Substance, Category B Label
  • If shipping with dry ice:
    • Indicate net weight of dry ice on the waybill, and
    • Include a completed UN1845 Class 9 hazard label.
UN1845 Class 9 Hazard Label
UN1845 Class 9 Hazard Label
  • Prohibited Marking – “Limited Quantities”
    • Please remove or cover any of the below label(s) or select a different box for your shipping needs.
    • Failure to remove or cover these labels may result in testing delays and a fee charged to your account.
Limited Quantities Label
Limited Quantities Label

Download TVMDL’s packing and labeling guidance as a handout to ensure this information is easily accessible the next time you’re preparing a shipment to us.

boxes of samples stacked among wagons in a diagnostic receiving area

Shipping the Package

Clients have the option of signing up for the Southeast Vocational Alliance (SVA) for discounted FedEx rates. Access the SVA Portal.

Full Service LabsPoultry Labs
College Station*
483 Agronomy Rd.
College Station, TX 77843-4471

979.845.3414
888.646.5623
Center
365 Malone Drive
Center, TX 75935

936.598.4451
Canyon
3209 Russell Long Blvd.
Canyon, TX 79016806.

806.651.7478
888.646.5624
Gonzales
1162 East Sarah DeWitt Drive
Gonzales, TX 78629

830.672.2834
*When using UPS, an error message stating the College Station lab’s address is not recognized, may appear. The UPS agent can override the error on their screen to allow generation of the shipping label. 
USPS Shipping Addresses

It is strongly recommended samples be shipped through FedEx or UPS. Due to the College Station and Canyon labs’ on-campus locations, samples shipped via USPS are sorted through university postal hubs. This process adds additional transit time. 

USPS College StationUSPS Canyon
College Station
PO Drawer 3040
College Station, TX 77841-3040
Canyon
WT Box 60818
Canyon, TX 79016

Shipping Regulation References