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
Packing the Shipment
- Leak-proof primary receptacle (e.g., blood collection tube);
- 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.
- Sufficient cushioning to protect individual specimens and fill head space within the package.
- Rigid outer container (e.g., hard cooler, cardboard shipper with a Styrofoam liner).
- 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:
- 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.
- If shipping with dry ice:
- Indicate net weight of dry ice on the waybill, and
- Include a completed 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.
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 Labs | Poultry 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 |
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 Station | USPS Canyon |
---|---|
College Station PO Drawer 3040 College Station, TX 77841-3040 | Canyon WT Box 60818 Canyon, TX 79016 |