All packages containing diagnostic/clinical specimens must be prepared and shipped to MPLN in accordance with International Air Transport Association (IATA) Packing Instruction 650. Therefore, we provide an assortment of IATA compliant boxes and packing supplies to our clients at no charge.

Shipping Supplies

MPLN provides our clients with specimen collection supplies, freezer gel packs, biohazard specimen transport bags, and an assortment of boxes and packing containers at no charge.

If you need supplies, please complete the order request form and submit it to MPLN by fax at (865) 273-1129 or email at supplies@mplnet.com. You may also contact Client Services for assistance by phone at (865) 380-9746 or via email at services@mplnet.com.

Client supply order request form

Packing and Shipping Instructions (PDF)

• Specimen Packing Instructions 
• Clinical specimen transport regulations (IATA 650)
• FedEx shipping pointers for clinical specimens

High Temperatures and Sample Quality

It is important to remember that heat is a major factor in sample degradation. This can negatively affect sample quality and the ability to obtain reliable laboratory results.

Increased protection from high temperatures is critical when packaging samples. Be sure all samples, including paraffin blocks, are sent at ambient temperature and packaged with a cool pack. It is also important to take precautions to ensure the sample is not in direct contact with the cool pack. (Insulate the sample by wrapping it in a protective material such as a paper towel.)

If you have questions or need cool packs, please call a Client Services Specialist at 865.380.9746.