proficiency test dispatch
Post - Most test materials are sent by normal post. They cannot be traced and can often take many weeks to be returned to sender if undelivered. If you test material does not arrive within 10 days of the start (dispatch) date please contact us. We will verify your delivery address and arrange for another test material to be sent. If you require a tracking system or know that your local post is unreliable please enquire about sending all your samples by courier.
Courier delivery - Certain materials are temperature sensitive or only stable for a short period of time and so are transported by courier. They may be packed in an insulated box with ice packs to prevent them undergoing large temperature fluctuations in transit. They are not transported in refrigerated vehicles and may thaw during transit. This does not indicate that your material is not suitable. If you provide us with a valid e-mail address we will send you the DHL airway bill number of your parcel on the day of dispatch. You can also obtain your airwaybill number from your account. This will allow you to track it and monitor its clearance through customs.
Customs - Participants are responsible for the clearance of their samples through customs although in some countries the local agent will take care of this process for you. Please provide us with any documentation required such as import permits to attach to your parcel. Neither DHL or customs are not obliged to keep your samples refrigerated if there is a delay in clearing your sample. We are not responsible for damage or non-delivery of materials due to problems in customs. Please refer to our terms and conditions for full details.
Delay in dispatch of test materials - Very occasional we have to delay the dispatch of a material. If this occurs we will try to contact all participants on the contact details given, to advise you of the delay and expected re-schedule date. It is therefore important that you notify us of any changes to your contact details, especially your e-mail address, if you are an existing participant you can do this through your account.
