How should I collect samples?
It is important not to contaminate the evidentiary items when they are being collected. Therefore it is important to wear gloves or use tweezers to collect the samples. They should be immediately placed into breathable packaging such as a paper envelope. This will allow the items to dry, if they were wet. Each item should be placed in a different envelope. If it is possible to seal the envelope with tape and put your initials across the tape, this will ensure that the package is not opened.

How should I store samples?
While it is preferable that samples are sent to Orchid Cellmark immediately upon collection, we understand that some people need time to consider the testing. If you do store samples, please keep them dry and at room temperature.

How should the samples be sent to Orchid Cellmark?
You should contact Orchid Cellmark to set up your case prior to shipping the samples. We will send you a Chain of Custody form that will need to be included with the samples when they are shipping.