Most of the preparations available from NIBSC are dispatched by standard (air) mail.  The cost of this is covered by the handling charge. (See ‘How much do the reference materials cost? Does this charge include shipping costs?’)

All preparations sent to India, , China, Israel,  South America and Japan and all orders with a value in excess of £200.00 are sent by courier. The current charge for this is GB £58 in addition to the handling charge. Also, when a postal shipment is reported as not delivered, we will then use courier for future shipments

Infectious materials, and all materials shipped on dry-ice, are classified as ‘Dangerous Goods’ and MUST be dispatched by airfreight.

Infectious preparations

It is our policy that every order is accompanied by the following statement:

 I understand that these reagents contain infectious materials. These will be handled only in appropriate containment facilities by fully trained and competent staff in accordance with my national safety guidelines.  I accept full responsibility for the use and disposal of the material. (For non-UK recipients) I confirm that these materials may be legally imported without delay in their delivery.

It is the responsibility of the originator to obtain all necessary import permits/licences needed to accompany the dispatch and to keep NIBSC appraised of any changes in legislation.  These permits should be sent to NIBSC at the time of ordering. In addition, any special instructions, such as using a particular broker to clear your customs, should be included. This should avoid infectious or temperature-sensitive materials becoming delayed in your customs.

If you choose to use your own broker then NIBSC liability will cease when the goods are handed over to that broker. You will be responsible for all charges and ensuring that correct storage conditions are maintained if there are any delays.

In addition to the handling charge, there are two additional charges for infectious materials: GB £26 for the certified packaging that must be used with these materials and the shipping charge, which is charged at cost and will depend on destination. If necessary, please ask for a quotation.

Dry Ice dispatches (Infectious or non-infectious materials)

In addition to the handling charge, there is a shipping charge for dry-ice dispatches which is charged at cost and is dependent on the destination - please ask for a quotation.