Shipping & Handling: DNA Collection Kits

Worldwide Kit Shipping

We ship our whole genome sequencing collection kits to locations around the world. In the United States, shipping includes a prepaid return label, making the process seamless and simple for you. For other countries, we offer priority return shipping at a reasonable cost. Information about shipping and handling for our DNA collection kits is located here.

How Shipping Works

1. After you place your order, the kit is shipped from our kit fulfillment center within 2-3 business days. 

2. The kit arrives at your address, free worlwide shipping is available.

3. In the U.S., you can simply use the provided prepaid return envelope.

4. Outside the U.S., return packaging and instructions will be included; return shipping, customs duties, and any VAT are your responsibility.

Shipping Terms to Know

• Return Timeline: Your sample must be returned within 180 days of ordering the kit, or at least 90 days before the kit’s expiration—whichever comes first. Kits received later may not be processed. 

• Activation Requirement: Activate your kit online before sending it back. Unactivated kits received by the lab must be activated within 30 days or they will be destroyed, making sequencing impossible.

If Something Goes Wrong

• If your sample fails quality control, we will reprocess it at no additional cost.

• If there is insufficient DNA, we will send a new kit for free.

• After three unsuccessful attempts, you are eligible for a refund (minus shipping), and further submissions through future purchases will not be accepted.

Kit Handling Notice for Shipping

Samples collected using buccal swabs in our kits are considered “geneaoligical sample” in the U.S., meaning they are non‑hazardous and do not require special shipping documentation.

FAQ's

Where can you ship DNA collection kits?
Worldwide. Kits ship to most countries, with prepaid return shipping included for U.S. orders and priority return options available elsewhere.

How long do I have to return the kit?
You must return it within 180 days of order or at least 90 days before the expiration date—whichever comes first.

Do I need to activate my kit before returning it?
Yes. Activation is required to process your sample. If received unactivated, it must be activated within 30 days or the lab will destroy it.

What happens if my sample fails?
We will reprocess for free or send a new kit if needed. After three attempts, you will receive a refund (less shipping).

Are DNA collection kits considered hazardous for shipping?
No. They are non‑hazardous “genealogical sample,” and special shipping documentation is not required.