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Sample storage and shipment

Quick guide to sample shipment and storage:

  • Always keep soil samples out of direct sunlight and away from heat, preferably in a cooler.
  • Samples need to be stored in a refrigerator or cold room after returning from field.
  • Make sure to send a completed Soil Health Submission form in a Ziplock bag that includes your penetrometer measurements (optional) with your sample.
  • Use rapid shipping method, double Ziplock bag your soil sample and ship sample with blue ice packs during warm weather periods.
  • Use Small Flat Rate box or send up to four, 4-cup samples, using USPS Priority Mail Medium Flat Rate box.
  • 4-5 cups of soil are required for the soil health analysis packages. Individual analyses have varied required amounts of soil which can be found here.
  • You will be billed after we email you your results via a secure pay portal where you can pay via credit card. Or, you can include a check with the samples made out to Cornell University. We do not charge sales tax.

 

Ship to us as soon as possible

Cornell Soil Health Lab
804 Bradfield Hall
306 Tower Road
Cornell University
Ithaca, NY 14853-1901
(607) 227-6055

Note: Submission forms must be included with the soil samples when shipped. Failure to include submission forms may result in delays and/or denial of requested soil analyses.

Important information regarding changes to packaging protocols for shipments within the U.S.