Sample Preparation & Transport
Contact CustomerSupport@OpGen.com or call 888.85.MapIt (888.856.2748) for specific sample preparation methods.
Sample Preparation
Sample Prep: What samples are you shipping?
Specific preparation of your sample for shipment and processing will vary depending on your sample type or the specific microbe you are forwarding for
Sample Integrity: When are you shipping samples?
Your sample integrity is important—so it is necessary to notify MapIt® prior to sample shipment. We will let you know when your samples are received for processing. If we receive shippments that we believe may be compromised due to packaging or transport problems or samples that were not cleared for delivery, your samples will not be processed (and possibly destroyed if there are safety concerns). Should this happen, we will contact you as soon as possible.
MapIt® Services: Why do we provide MapIt® sample transport kits?
There are several important reasons why we provide free sample transport kits to you. There are several types of transport kits and not all types meet all regulatory requirements for the transport of biological and/or infectious substances as regulated by law. Ours do. Next, we want to ensure that specimens are packed and transported per DOT and IATA rules and regulations to minimize risk and ensure safety of all persons involved in the transportation chain. Finally, your sample integrity is very important; OpGen wants to ensure that your samples are not jeopardized in transit and arrive safely to our laboratory.
Be sure to complete all areas of the MapIt® Order Form provided—contact CustomerSupport@OpGen.com for further information.
Sample Transport
Sample transport kit
MapIt® Services will provide a transport kit that meets all regulatory requirements for the transport of biological and/or infectious substances, as regulated by law.
Kit components include:
- UN 4GU outer ship box
- Secondary sample container(s) to accommodate up to 8 specimens per container
- Dry ice Styrofoam insert (if applicable)
- Order form and all instructions
- All required labeling, including USDA and CDC permits
Packing and shipping
Packing and shipping instructions are included with the transport kit. The transport of biological and/or infectious substances is regulated to minimize risk and ensure safety to all persons involved in the transportation chain. It is the shipper’s legal responsibility to ensure that specimens are packed and transported according to DOT and IATA rules and regulations. Some carriers may not accept infectious substances, or dangerous goods, so be sure to check with your carrier for acceptable transport specifics. Please contact Customer Support if you have any additional questions.
Important reference information
- www.IATA.org
P 800.716.6326 - www.CDC.gov/od/ohs
- www.dot.gov
- www.cdc.gov/biosafety
P 800.CDC.FAXX - www.icao.int/icaonet/dcs/9284/guidance_doc_infectious_substances.pdf
- www.access.gpo.gov
P 1.202.512.1800