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Mailing & Courier Services

Samples should be submitted to the CVMDL in the most timely manner possible to prevent deterioration and ensure diagnostic integrity. Overnight or next-day shipments are highly recommended when shipping specimens. The following shipping services are recommended by our laboratory: U.S. Postal Service First Class or Express Mail; Federal Express; Airborne Express; or United Parcel Service (UPS). Please note that weekend delivery is not possible due to unavailability of receiving personnel. After-hours submissions are limited to animal carcasses for necropsy.

Specimens should be sent to arrive at the CVMDL no later than 4:00 p.m. on the day before the Test Day specified in this user guide.

Samples submitted by a shipping service should be packaged following the shipping guidelines and requirements provided by the service. The U.S. Postal Service provides the following guidelines for the shipment of biological materials. The proper preparation for shipment of diagnostic specimens requires:

  • A leak-proof container non-permeable to the contents
  • Absorbent material sufficient to soak up contents in case of leakage
  • Non-dripping coolant, such as cold packs (do not use ice cubes)
  • A sealed inner container
  • A sealed plastic bag containing submission form(s) placed outside the inner container
  • An outer container, such as a styrofoam-lined box.

For samples that require cooling but not freezing, make certain cold packs are not in direct contact with samples.

Many courier services may refuse to handle any package that shows signs of internal breakage, dripping or dampness. Diagnostic specimens reasonably believed to contain an etiologic agent should be packaged to withstand leakage of contents, shocks, pressure changes, and other conditions incident to ordinary handling in transportation. As the shipper, you could be held legally responsible for improperly packaged specimens. For more information on proper packaging of diagnostic specimens, please visit the following website:

http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_99/42cfr72_99.html

A courier service provided by the CVMDL was initiated on July 23, 2007 for pickup of all species of deceased animals. This is a one year trial program, and if successful will be continued. There will be a courier fee: $40 for Tolland and Windham Counties, $65 for Hartford, Middlesex and New London Counties; $80 for Litchfield and New Haven Counties and $100 for Fairfield County. The courier service is arranged by calling 860-486-3738 during normal business hours, Monday through Friday 8:30 am to 4:30 pm.

There is no courier charge for animals currently covered by surveillance funds. If there is any question regarding coverage please contact the CVMDL at 860-486-3738.