Packaging and Marking

All packages/shipments must be prepared and packed by the sender for safe transportation with ordinary care in handling. Correct recipient address labels should be placed on each package/shipment. Any articles susceptible to damage as a result of conditions, which may be encountered in transportation, such as changes in temperature or atmospheric pressure, must be adequately protected by proper packaging. (See Restrictions for additional packaging instructions on particular commodities.) Each package/shipment must be legibly and durably marked with the name, address and ZIP code of the recipient. The ZIP code is crucial to the efficient movement of the package/shipment through our system.

Corrugated boxes in good, rigid condition large enough to allow cushioning of contents on the top, bottom and sides should be used. Items that cannot be packed into cartons (auto tail pipes, mufflers, tires, rims, etc.) should have all sharp edges and protrusions wrapped and the address label secured by pressure-sensitive tape wrapped completely around the object. A tie-tag can also be used. Briefcases, luggage, garment bags, aluminum cases, plastic cases, computer cartons or similar types of items whose outer finish might be damaged by adhesive labels, soling, marking or other types of surface damage that is normal with ordinary care in handling, should be placed in a protective container for shipment. Items with casters, wheels or rollers must have them removed or packaged to prevent damage.

Blood, urine and other non-infectious liquid diagnostic specimens will be accepted only when shipped in a sturdy outer container containing a sealed, watertight primary receptacle placed inside of a sealed, watertight secondary receptacle. Absorbent material must also be placed inside of the secondary watertight receptacle.

  • Sturdy outer packaging constructed of cardboard/corrugated fiberboard, wood, metal or rigid plastic is required. The sturdy outer packaging must be larger than 7 inches in length, 4 inches in width and 2 inches in depth.
  • Unacceptable packaging includes - but is not limited to - StyrofoamTM, plastic bags, paper envelopes and cardboard boxes. We will refuse to accept packages/shipments that do not meet these or any other federal requirements. These packages/shipments will not be accepted for pick-up.
  • Expanded polystyrene foam coolers (StyrofoamTM) must be shipped inside of a sturdy outer container. Expanded polystyrene foam coolers containing blood, urine and other non-infectious liquid diagnostic specimens must be shipped inside of a sturdy outer packaging. No exceptions are permitted.

If a shipment is refused by the recipient, the package/shipment will be returned to the sender. If the sender refuses to accept the returned shipment or it cannot be returned because of leakage or damage due to faulty packaging, the shipper is responsible for - and will reimburse 1-800 Courier - for all costs and fees of any type connected to the legal disposal of the package/shipment, plus any type of fees and costs connected with the cleanup of any spilling or leakage.