Before you send a sample
Plan sample submission with the PLS technical team before collecting or sending material for an agreed research service.
Last reviewed · Research submissions
Confirm the service, material type, quantity, container or transport medium, required temperature, maximum transit time, delivery address and receiving arrangements with PLS. There is no single transport condition suitable for every sample.
A specimen listed on an assay page does not confirm that PLS accepts it. Do not send clinical diagnostic samples, cultures or suspected high-risk infectious material without explicit written acceptance and an appropriate shipping plan. This page does not establish PLS diagnostic or high-containment capability.
Use the sample identifier agreed with PLS and make it match the accompanying sample list. Record material type and collection or preparation details as requested. Keep paperwork protected and separate from the sample containers.
Use coded research identifiers where appropriate. Do not enter patient names, reports or other sensitive identifiers in the public enquiry form or website chat. Ask the team how required submission records should be transferred.
Confirm the delivery day, receiving contact and courier before dispatch. Use the agreed temperature control and notify PLS of tracking details and any delay or temperature deviation. Refrigerant choice, including dry ice, must be reviewed by the shipper.
The basic packaging principle
A compatible, securely closed, leakproof sample container. For liquids, add enough absorbent material to contain the entire contents if a leak occurs.
Leakproof packaging around the primary container and absorbent material. Separate and cushion individual containers so they cannot strike one another.
A sturdy outer package that protects the contents during transport, with the required shipping marks, labels and documentation.
These three layers explain the packaging principle; they are not a complete packing instruction or certification. A trained, competent shipper must determine classification, compliant packaging, markings, documents and any permits under current national, route and carrier rules. Research use does not automatically make a specimen exempt. Dry ice has additional dangerous-goods requirements.
See the WHO transport guide and IATA dangerous-goods requirements.
Storage temperature and transit limits must come from the agreed, sample-specific instructions. CDC shipping guidance likewise directs submitters to test-specific requirements.
Background on packaging, transport planning and responsibilities. Check the rules in force when you dispatch.
General shipping principles. CDC receiving requirements are not PLS acceptance criteria.
Air transport classification, packing, marking, documentation and training requirements.
Share the service, material type and sample count. Keep patient details out of the enquiry.
