CSI Shipping Requirements and Procedures

Submission Types & Limitations:

Samples may be submitted in various states of preservation including but not limited to Formalin preserved samples and frozen samples. Samples must not exceed the maximum table weight and gantry diameter limitations of our CT scanner. The maximum weight our table can support is 200 kg (approx. 450 lbs). The maximum sample diameter that will pass through the gantry while on the table is 60 cm. Other limitations may apply depending on the sample type and composition. Please csi [at] whoi [dot] edu (contact us) prior to submitting a request if you have questions or concerns about samples you would like to submit.

Requirements & Restrictions:

(For samples shipped in chemicals other than Formalin please consult the US Department of Transportation regulations.)

NOTE: Larger volumes and/or concentrations of Formaldehyde are considered hazardous material and MUST be shipped under the US DOT regulations for hazardous materials. Please consult your institutions distribution department if you are uncertain about whether your shipment falls under these guidelines. Samples shipped without the proper HAZMAT declaration can be confiscated and the shipper fined.

Formalin Preserved Tissue Samples:

Once the sample(s) appears well fixed, call and email us to confirm that you are ready to ship and provide the day for shipment and the carrier tracking number. On the day of shipping, wrap the specimen(s) in several layers of formalin soaked gauze and place in three or more sealed plastic bags with an absorbent material such as diapers inside each bag to prevent leakage. If you use a plastic jar, seal the jar with wax or waterproof tape and place it in a sealed plastic bag. If possible, avoid using glass containers. The important point is to preserve moisture around the sample(s) without a large fluid volume and to have several leak proof seals. Place the packaged sample(s) inside a cooler or reinforced box. The container should be capable of withstanding a drop of at least three feet without damage when fully packed. Within the USA, ship by Federal Express® or other expedited service for one or two day delivery. If sending from over seas, please use a method that will deliver within 7 days. You will also need to confirm with us any permit numbers that are required for domestic or international shipping for some species. Check with your shipper that formalin fixed, non-liquid samples are allowable and considered non-hazardous. If so, mark the container: Scientific Specimen – No Medical Hazard - Deliver Immediately.

Frozen Tissue Samples:

Once the sample(s) are well frozen, call and email us to confirm that you are ready to ship and provide the day for shipment and the carrier tracking number. On the day of shipping, wrap the specimen in three or more sealed plastic bags with an absorbent material such as diapers inside each bag to prevent water leakage. If you use a plastic jar, seal the jar with wax or waterproof tape and place it in a sealed plastic bag. If possible, avoid using glass containers. Place the sample in either a plastic cooler (recommended) or a reinforced thermal styrofoam shipping box. The important point is to prevent thawing and water leakage. The container should be capable of withstanding a drop of at least three feet without damage when fully packed. Within the USA, ship by Federal Express® or other expedited service for one or two day delivery. If sending from over seas, please use a method that will deliver within 7 days. You will also need to confirm with us any permit numbers that are required for domestic or international shipping for some species. Mark the container: Scientific Specimen – No Medical Hazard - Deliver Immediately.