Conforming Tubes and Sample Labeling Instructions

Compatible Tubes:

Samples designated for analysis must be appropriately aliquoted into snap-cap microcentrifuge tubes with a capacity ranging between 0.5 and 0.65 mL. Examples of conforming tubes are as follows: VWR Cat#: 87003-290 (0.65mL) or Cat#: 20170-293 (0.65mL), Eppendorf Cat#: 022363611 (0.5mL) or Cat#: 05-402-18 (0.5mL).

Cryogenic tubes, 1.5mL tubes, and 96-well plates are a few examples of non-conforming and an additional fee of $4 per sample will be added to your order. Please indicate this when placing your order to avoid delays in processing.

If you are sending samples in a 96-well plate, please seal the plate with aluminum sealing tape (polyester is not recommended). Freeze the samples in the plate on a flat surface before shipping to reduce the potential for samples to spill into neighboring wells in the event of a sealing tape malfunction.

*Please DO NOT Parafilm seal your tubes (this will incur a non-conforming fee).

Labeling:

Using a permanent marker, label the tube lids/caps alpha numerically (first letter of your last name followed by consecutive numbers).  For example, if your last name is “Smith” and you are sending three samples your tubes will be labeled:  S1, S2 and S3.  If you have sixty samples, the samples should be labelled S1-S60. Remember to label the TOPS of the tubes and not the sides so that we can take a photograph of the racked samples for quality control purposes.

An additional fee of $4 per sample will be added to your order for any tubes with non-conforming labels.

Maintain your own record of which number corresponds to which sample.  Proper labeling and documentation of samples are essential for accurate tracking and interpretation of results.

*Using labels or stickers is NOT recommended – labels can come off when frozen.