International Shipping Instructions

Shipping Samples Internationally to Desert Research Institute

Soil Characterization and Quaternary Pedology Laboratory

The Soils Lab is currently USDA-APHIS certified to receive soil shipments internationally.   International shipping instructions are listed below.

(1) Samples should be double-bagged.
(2) Samples need to be shipped in a sturdy container (e.g. heavy cardboard box, ice chest, etc.) that is securely sealed.
(3) A copy of the permit must be placed within an envelope (paper, plastic) on the outside of the shipping container for easy access by U.S. Customs. Envelope should be labeled “USDA Soil Permit.”  Contact the Soils Lab for a copy of the permit (soils_lab@dri.edu).
(4) A copy of the Soil Permit must also be enclosed inside the box with the samples.
(5) Contact the Soils Lab (soils_lab@dri.edu) for a black/white barcode label (PPQ-550).  This label will be affixed to the outside of your shipping container.  The unique barcode on the label authorizes direct shipment to the Soils Lab.
(6) Ship Samples to the DRI address:

Soil Characterization and Quaternary Pedology Laboratory

Desert Research Institute

2215 Raggio Parkway Reno, NV, 89512

Other Notes: If shipped using Federal Express or similar commercial shipping company, items shipped should be identified as:
– “Soil Samples”
– Value is $1.00 (Not listed as priceless)
– And noted that a USDA soil permit accompanies sample shipment by designating “Permit Enclosed”

U.S. customs MAY request information regarding a Toxic Substances Control Act Certification. This certification has two options:
1) I certify that the chemical substances in this shipment comply with all applicable rules or orders under the TSCA and that I am not offering a chemical for entry in violation of TSCA or any applicable rule or order there under.
2) I certify that all the chemical substances in this shipment are not subject to TSCA.

Check response # 2: Soil samples do not contain chemical substances that are covered by the Toxic Substances Control Act.