[NHCOLL-L:2316] Re: shipping methods for specimens

[James Dean]

James,

our understanding is that fluid specimens cannot be shipped via USPS either domestically or internationally. We have been forced into using Federal Express for fluid shipments both domestically and internationally.  Our choice of Fed Ex is based primarily on the Smithsonian having a contract with them for the majority of our overnight shipping needs.  I can't remember off hand but UPS may not accept alcohol and formalin and other hazardous materials.

For international shipments of dry specimens we usually send the shipments registered air mail which provides a way to track the shipment but does not present an insurance value that could trigger the payment of a duty. The downside is that international registered mail has a 4 pound per box limit.




James Dean
Collections Manager
Division of Birds
Department of Zoology

Mailing address
James Dean
Division of Birds
Smithsonian Institution
P.O. Box 37012
NHB E606  MRC-116
Washington DC 20013-7012     

phone:  202-357-4288
fax 202-633-8084 
 email: dean.james at nmnh.si.edu
web site: http://www.nmnh.si.edu/vert/birds/