Samples should be well protected in packaging that is not likely to contaminate the samples. Plastic bags are normally fine but it is best to use those designed for use with food as these are likely to have lower plasticiser levels, and to wrap the samples in them in aluminium foil. However, please note that charcoal from high/low pH sediments will degrade the foil so an alternative should be used. For small samples, glass tubes with screw on tops are preferable - use aluminium foil under the lids to prevent the samples sticking to the lids, which are usually plastic.
Water samples should be stored in inert plastic bottles with tightly sealed screw tops and a negligible air gap.
Fill in the online sample submission form and include a printed copy of this, with a signed copy of the terms and conditions, inside the parcel with your samples.
If you are shipping samples from outside the UK you will be asked to describe the contents of the parcel. To avoid unecessary delays at customs please describe the contents as 'Scientfic samples for research use only, no commercial value; non-toxic, non-hazardous, non-infectious.'
