Transportation, Shipping,
and Export Control
Check out the new Guide for Shipping Biological Material
Step 1: Assess Your Biological Samples
Unregulated Biological Materials are not subject to IATA and DOT regulations. These include materials that are unlikely to cause diseases, infectious agents contained in human or animal samples being transported for research, and USDA or FDA-approved biological products.
Regulated Biological Materials include Category A and Category B infectious substances per IATA, specimens that are likely to contain pathogens, uncertified biological products, and genetically modified organisms/microorganisms.
Step 2: Determine the Mode of Transportation
Hand-Carry
No restriction on the types of materials you can carry but the materials must be appropriately packaged and labeled.
LBNL Shuttle and Personal/Government Vehicles
Do not transport any regulated biological materials or waste on LBNL shuttles or personal/government vehicles. Exception: regulated biological materials contained in human or animal samples can be transported in personal/government vehicles.
LBNL Transportation
Request transportation of biological materials through Facilities Work Request Center. The materials transferred must not contain regulated or hazardous biological material. (If any equipment (e.g., freezer, centrifuge) is being transported, the equipment must be decontaminated first. If a Biosafety Cabinet is being transported, contact biosafety@lbl.gov.)
LBNL and Common Carrier Shipping
Complete a shipping form and describe biological material to be shipped, including whether it’s regulated and hazardous, and its potential risks. Trained personnel in LBNL Shipping will rely on the information you provide to correctly categorize and package your material.
Step 3: Packaging and Labeling
Use leak-proof, break-resistant primary and secondary containers labeled with the identity of the contents, ownership information, and any appropriate biohazard information (and put a biohazard label on the exterior for RG2 materials).
For transport, in addition to the requirements listed above, include packing materials to keep all containers upright and sufficient absorbent material. Secure the package inside the vehicle.
Step 4: Shipping
For non-infectious materials, same packaging as transporting in a vehicle.
For infectious materials, work with shipping personnel to determine DOT-compliant packaging and labels.
Resources
NEW! Guide for Shipping Biological Material
Transportation and Shipping of Biological Material
Export Control Contact: exportcontrol@lbl.gov