The NC State University PDIC has a USDA-APHIS permit to receive plant samples for disease diagnosis from elsewhere in the continental United States. The Turfgrass Diagnostics Lab has an even broader permit. These permits have specific requirements for documentation and packaging. In addition, we want samples to arrive in good condition for diagnosis. Out-of-state samples not properly packaged will be destroyed without examination.

Important: No live insects, mites, or other animals may be submitted from outside the state of North Carolina.

• Double-bag the sample
• Enclose a copy of the sample submission form with our permit number displayed at the top. If you are using a handwritten form that lacks the permit number, enclose a copy of the first page of the permit itself.
• Place the sample in a sturdy cardboard box with all the seams taped closed. A paperboard envelope does not constitute adequate packaging.
• Tape over the seams of the box with packing tape.
• You may use newspaper or bubble wrap to cushion the sample, but shredded paper and foam packing “peanuts” are discouraged.
• Send the sample early enough in the week so that it is not in transit over the weekend.

"All packages for transport must minimally consist of both inner/primary and outer/secondary packages securely sealed so that both are effective barriers to escape or unauthorized dissemination of the listed materials/organisms. The inner/primary package(s) will contain all regulated materials/organisms and must be cushioned and sealed in such a way that it remains sealed during shock, impact, and pressure changes that may occur. The outer/secondary shipping container must be rigid and strong enough to withstand typical shipping conditions (dropping, stacking, impact from other freight, etc.) without opening."