(Vallid Labs does not provide any shipping labels and any shipping charges incurred are the responsibility of the client)

How to Pack an Insulated Box:

1: Choose a box that is not over-sized for what you are sending (A larger box means more ice packs and more weight)

2: Make sure you have totally frozen ice packs. Placing a closed insulated box directly in the freezer will not adequately freeze ice packs.

3: Make sure sample is either cold or frozen. Ambient samples can be sent at room temperature.

**Do not freeze ground beef for E. Coli 0157:H7, swabs or any samples for nutritional analysis**

4: Place a copy of the chain of custody paperwork in the box with the samples or email or fax to Vallid labs prior to shipping. If no chain of custody is present testing may be delayed.

5: Place packing materials, frozen ice packs (usually 3-4-) and samples in shipping box and seal. Samples should not rattle around box once sealed- if it does more packaging is needed.

6: Take box to UPS, Fed-Ex, or USPS the same day as packed. Check with shipping company to ensure that samples will arrive to lab in an appropriate time frame.

a: If Saturday delivery is necessary you must alert the lab prior to sending to make sure arrangements can be made and you must select “Saturday delivery” and weekend charges apply.

b. Swabs should be delivered to the lab next day or else they may be rejected. Swabs should never be sent over the weekend unless Saturday arrangements are made.

7: If you have any questions or concerns please contact the lab prior to sending samples. 413-789-2206