How to Send Blood Samples by Courier in the UK

To send blood samples by courier in the UK, you must confirm the specimen classification, use appropriate leakproof packaging, follow laboratory temperature requirements and choose a courier authorised and equipped to transport the shipment.

Blood samples require careful handling because incorrect packaging, unsuitable temperatures or delivery delays can affect specimen integrity and laboratory test results.

Whether you’re a hospital, medical practice, diagnostic laboratory or healthcare provider, understanding the correct transportation process helps ensure safe and compliant delivery.

Need urgent blood sample transportation? Contact Twenty47 Logistics to discuss your collection requirements and confirm whether your shipment can be accepted.

How Do You Send Blood Samples by Courier?

Sending blood samples requires six essential steps.

1. Confirm the Blood Sample Classification

Before shipping, determine whether the specimen is classified as an Exempt Human Specimen, UN3373 Biological Substance, Category B, or a higher-risk infectious substance.

The classification determines the applicable packaging and transportation requirements.

2. Use Compliant Blood Sample Packaging

Blood samples classified as UN3373 must follow Packing Instruction P650.

The required triple-packaging system includes:

• Primary receptacle: A leakproof blood collection tube.
• Secondary packaging: A leakproof protective container with sufficient absorbent material.
• Outer packaging: Strong protective packaging suitable for transportation.

Either the secondary or outer packaging must be rigid. The completed package must satisfy the applicable P650 requirements.

3. Maintain the Correct Transport Temperature

Blood samples have different temperature requirements depending on the test.

Some specimens require ambient-temperature transport, while others need refrigerated or frozen conditions.

Always follow the receiving laboratory’s instructions to protect specimen stability.

4. Prepare the Required Documentation

Include the laboratory’s required specimen identification, collection details, test request information and relevant transport documentation.

Ensure patient information is handled securely.

5. Choose a Suitable Medical Courier

Select a courier that accepts the specimen classification and can meet the required delivery deadline.

Before booking, confirm collection availability, transit time, tracking arrangements and any temperature-control requirements.

Need a same day Medical courier? Speak to Twenty47 Logistics about your collection location, delivery deadline and specimen requirements.

6. Arrange Collection and Laboratory Delivery

Schedule collection within the specimen’s permitted transport window.

The receiving laboratory should verify the specimen information and packaging condition upon arrival.

What Packaging Is Required for Blood Samples?

Blood samples must be packaged according to their classification.

For UN3373 Biological Substance, Category B, the packaging must comply with P650 and display the required UN3373 marking and shipping name.

Exempt specimens and Category A infectious substances have different requirements.

Can Blood Samples Be Sent by Same Day Courier?

Yes. Blood samples can be transported by same day courier when the service accepts the relevant specimen classification and meets the laboratory’s transport requirements.

Same day delivery can be particularly useful for:

• Hospital-to-laboratory transfers
• Urgent diagnostic testing
• Private clinic specimen collections
• Time-sensitive laboratory shipments
• Healthcare facility transfers

A dedicated courier may help reduce unnecessary stops and handling, although suitability depends on the specimen and service arrangements.

Looking for urgent medical courier delivery? Contact Twenty47 Logistics to discuss same day collection options and confirm shipment eligibility.

Do Blood Samples Need Temperature-Controlled Delivery?

Not all blood samples require refrigeration.

Transport conditions depend on the sample type, requested analysis and laboratory stability requirements.

For example, certain whole-blood specimens must remain at room temperature, while some separated serum or plasma samples require controlled cooling.

The receiving laboratory should specify the appropriate temperature and maximum transport time.

Can You Send Blood Samples Through Royal Mail?

Certain blood samples can be transported using Royal Mail services that accept the relevant biological specimens.

However, the sender must comply with the service’s packaging, classification, quantity and acceptance conditions.

For urgent specimens, a specialist courier may provide more suitable collection and delivery arrangements.

How Much Does Blood Sample Courier Delivery Cost?

Blood sample courier costs in the UK depend on collection distance, delivery urgency, specimen requirements and transport conditions.

Dedicated same day deliveries may cost more than scheduled collections because they require a vehicle and driver for a specific journey.

For an accurate quote, provide the collection postcode, delivery postcode, required delivery time and specimen transport requirements.

Need a courier quote? Contact Twenty47 Logistics with your shipment details to discuss available transport options.

Arrange Your Medical Courier Delivery With Twenty47 Logistics

Transporting blood samples requires appropriate packaging, careful handling and delivery within the laboratory’s specified timeframe.

Twenty47 Logistics can discuss your urgent courier requirements and help determine whether a suitable transport option is available.

Need to arrange an urgent collection?

Call Twenty47 Logistics today to discuss your shipment requirements, collection location and delivery deadline.

Request a courier quote and confirm availability before dispatch.

Frequently Asked Questions