Hello,
I'm planning to send some very important samples (snap frozen cell lines) to a company in the States from Southampton, UK. The company suggested to use World Courier services. But as we have had trouble some years ago in clearing the US customs in time, and our samples were destroyed as they ran out of dry ice, I just wanted to know if anyone has used this particular service, and would have any experience to share or any other suggestions to make..
Thanks a lot.
Cheers!
x
We have used Citysprint Healthcare for the past six or seven years. They are way, way better than Fedex, I seem to recall they will refill dry ice if your parcel gets stuck at customs, and they are inexpensive compared with others. Also, you get to speak with, and email people who have always been really nice. You can email them on [email protected] or phone them on 0844 888 4115.
I used them for live transgenic mice shipping and they were extremely useful with custom forms even before the actual shipping.
Dear Simon and Maria, thanks a lot for your valuable reviews. Truly appreciate it!
Cheers.
Thanks Jessica, I am arranging the paperwork now. I am sending mESCs. Though the cell lines fall under a 'no permit required' category according to USDA # 1120, do you have any suggestions regarding description of samples for customs?
many thanks.
It's interesting to hear good things about WC - I haven't used them. But in answer to Jessica - Citysprint do fill up at customs and I agree - customs can be VERY particular.
Dear All,
Thanks for your comments and suggestions. I'd sent my samples from Southampton to North Carolina availing World Courier's services. And I'm relieved and happy to convey that they were pretty good in assistance, re-filling dry ice at several stages of transport and getting past customs. Of course I also took suggestions from the company as to how I should describe my samples for an "easy", less complicated custom clearance. A useful tip: Avoid the term "embryonic" to avoid stirring complications!
thanks again for all your valuable remarks.
cheers!
We have used WC extensively. Their specialty is refilling the dry ice at any time needed, including during delays in customs. They are expensive, but worth it for critical samples.
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