Sample Shipping Instructions

International Avian DNA Sample Submission Guide
Last Updated: May 8, 2026

Thank you for choosing Aviantestpro for avian DNA testing services. To ensure accurate laboratory results and smooth international processing, please carefully follow the sample collection and shipping instructions below.

1. Feather Sample Collection

Recommended Sample Type

Freshly plucked feather samples are one of the most commonly used materials for avian DNA testing.

Collection Requirements

• Collect 4–5 freshly plucked feathers from each bird.
• The feather must contain the root follicle (quill base), as this area contains the DNA material required for testing.
• Do NOT use naturally fallen feathers, old feathers, damaged feathers, or feathers without visible follicle roots.
• Avoid touching the feather root directly with fingers or contaminated tools.

Packaging Instructions

• Place each bird’s feather samples into a separate clean small plastic bag or sample envelope.
• Clearly label each sample with:
  • Bird ID or name
  • Species (if known)
  • Owner reference number (optional)

To reduce sample degradation during storage and transport:

• Before shipping, it is recommended to store feather samples at 2–8°C refrigerated conditions whenever possible.
• Avoid excessive heat, humidity, and direct sunlight.

2. Blood DNA Sample Collection

Required Collection Material

Blood DNA samples must be collected using:

• Professional DNA blood collection cards
• Specialized DNA sample collection paper designed for molecular testing

Important Notice

Please do NOT use:

• Tissue paper
• Printing paper
• Toilet paper
• Cotton paper
• Non-professional absorbent materials

Improper materials may:

• Inhibit DNA extraction
• Damage genetic material
• Cause PCR/qPCR interference
• Lead to invalid or failed testing results

Using proper DNA collection paper is extremely important for successful laboratory analysis.

3. Shipping Method and Mailing Address

Shipping Address

Please contact our customer support team before shipping samples to obtain the latest sample receiving address and shipping instructions.

Recommended Couriers

International courier services supported include:

• DHL
• FedEx
• UPS
• EMS
• Other international express services

For faster international delivery and more stable customs processing, we strongly recommend:

• DHL Express
• FedEx International Priority

4. Customs Clearance for International Samples

International biological sample shipments may require customs clearance procedures depending on the destination country and shipping method.

Customs Clearance Fee

A customs clearance handling fee applies for international sample processing.

• Standard customs clearance fee: USD 40 per shipment
• Our forwarding and customs agent currently charges only: USD 20 support fee

Processing Time

Customs clearance generally requires:

• Approximately 2–3 business days

During peak shipping seasons, holidays, or customs inspections, delays may occur and processing time may be extended.

Please note:

• Customs policies vary by country and courier.
• Delays caused by customs authorities, airlines, weather, or international transport conditions are outside laboratory control.

5. Laboratory Receiving and Sample Confirmation

After customs clearance is completed:

• Samples will be delivered to our laboratory.
• Our laboratory team will:
  • Verify the number of received samples
  • Inspect packaging condition
  • Take confirmation photos
  • Confirm sample information with the customer

Once sample verification is completed and testing payment is confirmed, laboratory analysis will begin.

6. Testing Turnaround Time

Standard Testing Time

For most avian DNA tests, laboratory processing generally requires:

• 1–2 business days

after successful sample receipt and payment confirmation.

DNA Fingerprinting Testing

Please note that:

• DNA Fingerprinting tests may require longer processing time depending on:
  • Marker analysis complexity
  • Sample quantity
  • Laboratory workload
  • Additional verification procedures

7. Test Reports

After testing is completed:

• Customers will receive a digital PDF laboratory report by email.
• Reports are typically delivered in electronic format for faster international access.

Please ensure that your email address is correct when submitting your order.

8. Sample Quality Recommendations

To improve testing success rates, we recommend:

• Using fresh samples whenever possible
• Avoiding contamination between birds
• Individually packaging each bird’s sample
• Clearly labeling all submissions
• Minimizing exposure to moisture and heat
• Shipping samples as soon as possible after collection

Poor-quality or contaminated samples may affect testing accuracy or require recollection.

9. International Compliance Notice

All submitted samples must comply with:

• Local laws and regulations
• Wildlife and animal transport regulations
• Customs and biosecurity requirements
• Courier shipping policies

Customers are responsible for ensuring lawful international shipment of biological samples from their country or region.

Aviantestpro laboratory services are intended exclusively for:

• Avian applications
• Non-human laboratory testing
• Educational and scientific purposes

No services are intended for human medical or clinical diagnostic use.

10. Customer Support

For shipping instructions, sample preparation assistance, or customs questions, please contact our support team before shipping samples.