Can you mail saliva tests through usps
The convenience of at-home saliva tests!
Yes, you can mail saliva tests through the United States Postal Service (USPS). However, there are some guidelines and considerations to keep in mind:
- Check with the test manufacturer: Before mailing a saliva test, check with the manufacturer to ensure they allow shipping through USPS. Some manufacturers may have specific requirements or restrictions.
- Use a sturdy envelope: Use a sturdy, padded envelope to protect the test from damage during transit. You can purchase these at a post office or online.
- Use a trackable shipping method: Use a trackable shipping method, such as Priority Mail or First Class Package Service, to ensure your package is delivered and can be tracked.
- Follow USPS guidelines: Follow USPS guidelines for shipping biological specimens, which include:
- Using a biohazard bag or a leak-proof container to prevent leakage.
- Labeling the package as "Biohazard" or "Infectious Substance" to alert handlers.
- Using a secure, tamper-evident seal to prevent unauthorized access.
- Comply with state and local regulations: Check with your state and local health department to ensure you comply with any regulations or requirements for shipping biological specimens.
- Consider using a specialized shipping service: If you're shipping a large volume of saliva tests or need more specialized handling, consider using a shipping service specifically designed for biological specimens, such as FedEx or UPS.
Some popular saliva test manufacturers that allow shipping through USPS include:
- DNA Testing Kits (e.g., AncestryDNA, 23andMe)
- Health and wellness tests (e.g., WellnessFX, HealthLabs)
- Genetic testing for inherited conditions (e.g., MyHeritage, FamilyTreeDNA)
Remember to always follow the manufacturer's instructions and USPS guidelines when shipping saliva tests through the mail.