Transport instructions

General instructions
All samples have to be packed properly (3 layers of packaging) during transport (see packing instruction). Identify all samples and fill in and add our submission form to the shipment. (packaging material and labels can be purchased at GD). In case of shipments which are coming from non-EU countries, please ask for extra information because of the longer transport-time due to the clearance.

Blood or serum samples
We prefer to receive blood samples, which we will centrifuge in our laboratory. If you would like to send in samples, we prefer to receive serum samples in deep well blocks. Eppendorf tubes are less convenient to handle in our laboratory.

Blood

  • Fill the tubes for ¾ with blood;
  • Keep the tubes at room temperature for about an hour;
  • For haematological testing, please turn the tube 5 times (do not shake);
  • During the transport, keep the tubes at a temperature between 4 – 20/25 degrees Celsius;
  • Blood samples have to arrive within 3-4 days after sampling in our laboratory. Otherwise test results may be influenced.

Serum

  • Centrifuge the blood samples at 2500 G during 10 minutes;
  • Serum samples can be stored at 2-8 degrees Celsius for one week;
  • Storage for longer periods can be done at a temperature of -20 degrees Celsius;
  • Transport of serum samples: advisable to send it by cooled transport (4 degrees Celsius) or with dry ice.

Water
For bacteriology testing: 

  • the sample has to be delivered within 24 hours after sampling;
  • use sterile water pots;
  • take samples from both start and end of the watering system;
  • add information about where the sample was taken and describe the kind of problems;
  • send in the sample by cooled transport (4 degrees Celsius).

For chemical testing:

  • use sterile water pots;
  • take samples from both start and end of the watering system;
  • it is advisable to send in the sample by cooled transport (4 degrees Celsius).