Specimen and shipping requirements

Invitae accepts sample types listed below and offers free kits for sample collection. Please visit our Request a Kit page to learn more and contact Client Services if you require any assistance. For more information about specimen and shipping requirements, visit our FAQ page.

For diagnostic and proactive testing, saliva is the easiest specimen for patients to provide from home and enables results just as accurate as blood.

Invitae also accepts DNA that has been isolated in other laboratories, although there are assay limitations for previously-extracted DNA specimens (for details, please see the “DNA” section below). Please note that we cannot accept DNA specimens for STAT testing at this time.

Whole blood

Test type
Accepted for the following test types:
  • Diagnostic testing (panels and exome)
  • Proactive health panels
  • Carrier screening
  • Parental/familial studies
  • Pediatric microarray analysis
  • Karyotype
Specimen types
Specimen types accepted:
  • Whole blood
  • Cord blood, collected at birth (but not prior to birth; we recommend that you perform MCC analysis if you have concerns about maternal cell contamination for a given specimen)
  • Frozen or partially frozen blood, although deletion/duplication analysis is not guaranteed for these specimens; also note that these specimens will be thawed upon receipt
We are unable to accept:
  • Hemolyzed or clotted blood
  • Blood, saliva, assisted saliva, and buccal swabs from patients who have had an allogeneic (non-self donor) bone marrow transplant
  • Blood, saliva, assisted saliva, and buccal swabs from patients who have had an allogeneic (non-self donor) stem cell transplant
  • Blood, saliva, assisted saliva, and buccal swabs from patients who had a blood transfusion less than two weeks prior to specimen collection

Hematologic conditions:
Results may be affected for blood, saliva, or buccal specimens from patients with certain hematological conditions that are actively circulating in the peripheral blood. In such cases, a specimen type that does not contain leukocytes is suggested, such as gDNA extracted from cultured fibroblasts obtained via a skin biopsy. Please see the “Specimens for patients with hematological conditions” section on this page for more information.

VOLUME
For adults:
  • We require a minimum of 3 mL of whole blood per clinical area for adults.
For pediatric cases:
  • We prefer 3 mL per clinical area, but can accept 1.5 mL if necessary.
For newborns/infants:
  • We accept small-volume microtubes (0.5-mL capacity) from capillary blood collection (heel or finger stick). We require 3 full small-volume tubes per clinical area.
For pediatric microarray cases:
  • 4 mL blood in an EDTA (purple top) tube and 4 mL NaHep (green top) tube
  • For NICU/PICU patients, minimum 1-2 mL per tube
For cytogenetic parental/familial studies (FISH, karyotype, microarray):
  • 4 mL blood in an EDTA (purple top) tube and 4 mL NaHep (green top) tube
Container
  • Diagnostic, proactive, carrier screening and parental/familial samples should be sent in EDTA purple-top or pink-top tubes. We accept both K2EDTA and K3EDTA.
  • Pediatric microarray must include both the EDTA (purple top) tube and 4 mL NaHep (green top) tube.
  • Please see the post-mortem specimens section for details on gray-top tube specimens.
Labeling
For diagnostic, proactive, and carrier screen testing, each tube must be labeled with:
  • The patient’s full name
  • One additional unique identifier:
    • Date of birth
    • Medical record number
    • IB number, if placed by submitting clinician
    • Invitae test order ID (RQ#)
  • Specimen collection date
The patient name and at least one additional unique identifier written on each tube must match the name and identifier provided when the test order was placed. We recommend including more than one additional unique identifier to ensure a match.

For pediatric microarray and parental/familial studies label with the following information:
  • Specimen collection date (today’s date)
  • Patient’s sex
  • Patient’s date of birth (MM/DD/YYYY)
  • Patient’s full name, including legal first and last name
Storage & Stability
We recommend using overnight shipping the same day that the blood is collected.
  • Blood can be kept at room temperature for up to 48 hours.
  • We request that blood is refrigerated no longer than two weeks.
  • Please do not freeze blood as deletion/duplication analysis is not supported for frozen or partially frozen blood.
Documentation
For diagnostic, proactive, and carrier screen testing:
  • A printed copy of the requisition form must be submitted with the specimen if you're not placing your order through the online portal. You can find and print a copy of the requisition form here.
  • If you're placing an online order, a printed copy of the requisition form is helpful but not required.
  • Please note that notes handwritten on the form will not be processed.
  • If you need to modify your order, please contact Client Services.
For pediatric microarray and parental/familial studies:
  • A printed copy of the requisition form must be submitted with the specimen. You can find and print a copy of the form here.
  • If you need to modify your order, please contact Client Services.
Shipping requirements
For diagnostic, proactive, and carrier screen testing:
Blood should be shipped overnight at room temperature. We recommend including cold packs when shipping from outside the US and Canada in hot weather or if shipping is expected to take longer than overnight to keep the specimen at 2 to 8 degrees Celsius (35.6 to 46.6 degrees Fahrenheit). Frozen blood should be shipped overnight using cold packs.

To assist with specimen collection and shipping, you can request a free Invitae blood collection kit by submitting our online Request a Kit form.

If you are sending more than one kit in a given day to Invitae, you can include up to four kits into the same FedEx Clinical Pak envelope for your convenience. If multiple kits do not fit well into a single envelope for any reason, please separate them into as many envelopes as needed.

Alternatively, you can send us the specimen in a crush-proof container via FedEx Priority Overnight (in accordance with the FedEx Packaging Guidelines for Clinical Samples). Please contact Invitae’s Client Services team to obtain the FedEx account number. (Pricing includes return shipping when sent from: US, Canada, Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.)
 
Shipping address:
        Attn: Client Services
        Invitae Corporation
        1400 16th Street
        San Francisco, CA 94103
 
  • Invitae accepts packages Monday through Friday. We recommend that you send your package so that it leaves your facility Monday through Thursday. Please do not request Saturday delivery. Invitae follows the FedEx Holiday Service Schedule.
  • If you ship your specimen from outside the United States, your shipping carrier will require three copies of a commercial (pro-forma) invoice. A sample invoice is available here. Please be sure to also include a customs declaration form. A sample customs declaration form is available here.
For pediatric microarray and parental/familial studies: 
To assist with specimen collection and shipping, contact Invitae to request a free collection kit.

Shipping address:
        Attn: Client Services
        Invitae Corporation
        5 Technology Drive
        Irvine, CA 92618
 
  • Invitae’s Irvine lab accepts packages Monday through Saturday. We recommend that you send your package so that it leaves your facility Monday through Friday. Invitae follows the FedEx Holiday Service Schedule.
  • Include cold packs when shipping from outside the US and Canada in hot weather, or if shipping is expected to take longer than overnight, to keep the specimen at ambient temperature (50–86 °F/10–30 °C).
  • If you ship your specimen from outside the United States, your shipping carrier will require three copies of a commercial (pro-forma) invoice (a sample invoice is available here). In addition to the Air Waybill, Invitae provides 3 copies of a proforma invoice and a customs declaration form (a sample customs declaration form is available here).

Saliva

Test type
Accepted for the following test types:
  • Diagnostic testing (panels and exome)
  • Proactive health panels
  • Carrier screening
Specimen types
Specimen types accepted:
  • Saliva collected and stored in an OrageneTM self collection kit (OG500/OGD500/OGD510)
    • Please note that this kit requires 2 mL of saliva for OG500/OGD500 and 1 mL of saliva for OGD510, and involves active (not assisted) saliva donation.
  • Saliva collected and stored in an OrageneTM assisted saliva collection kit (OG575/OGD575)
    • Invitae no longer distributes this assisted saliva kit. However, we continue to accept specimens collected in previously distributed, unexpired kits.
    • Due to the smaller volume collected in these kits (0.75 mL per kit), we request that two tubes be filled per order.
  • In some cases, the ORAcollect Dx OCD-100 cheek swab collection kit is another option for situations where active saliva donation is difficult. For more information on this kit, please see the “BUCCAL SWABS” section below.

To request a free OrageneTM kit, visit our Request a Kit page.

  • We are unable to accept:
    • Saliva in any container other than the OrageneTM kits (OG500/OGD500/OGD510/OG575/OGD575)
    • Dry buccal swabs and mouthwash specimens
    • Blood, saliva, assisted saliva, and buccal swabs from patients who have had an allogeneic (non-self donor) bone marrow transplant
    • Blood, saliva, assisted saliva, and buccal swabs from patients who have had an allogeneic (non-self donor) stem cell transplant
    • Blood, saliva, assisted saliva, and buccal swabs from patients who had a blood transfusion less than two weeks prior to specimen collection

Hematologic conditions:
Results may be affected for blood, saliva, or buccal specimens from patients with certain hematological conditions that are actively circulating in the peripheral blood. In such cases, a specimen type that does not contain leukocytes is suggested, such as gDNA extracted from cultured fibroblasts obtained via a skin biopsy. Please see the “Specimens for patients with hematological conditions” section on this page for more information.

Labeling
The collection tube must be labeled with:
  • The patient’s full name
  • One additional unique identifier:
    • Date of birth (MM/DD/YYYY)
    • Medical record number
    • IB number, if placed by submitting clinician
    • Invitae test order ID (RQ#)
  • Specimen collection date
The patient name and at least one additional unique identifier written on the tube must match the name and identifier provided when the test order was placed. We recommend including more than one additional unique identifier to ensure a match.
Storage & Stability
Store saliva at room temperature, avoiding lengthy refrigeration. Although there are no special time requirements, we recommend that the specimen be mailed to Invitae soon after collection.
Documentation
A printed copy of the requisition form must be submitted with the specimen if you're not placing your order through the online portal. You can find and print a copy of the requisition form here. If you're placing an online order, a printed copy of the requisition form is helpful but not required. Please note that notes handwritten on the form will not be processed. If you need to modify your order, please contact client services.
Shipping requirements
Ship at room temperature (overnight shipping is not necessary). To assist with specimen collection and shipping, you can request a free Invitae saliva collection kit by submitting a Request a Kit form online.

Alternatively, you can send us the specimen in a crush-proof container via FedEx Priority Overnight (in accordance with the FedEx Packaging Guidelines for Clinical Samples). Please contact Invitae’s Client Services team to obtain the FedEx account number. (Pricing includes return shipping when sent from: US, Canada, Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.)

Shipping address:
        Attn: Client Services
        Invitae Corporation
        1400 16th Street
        San Francisco, CA 94103
 
  • Invitae accepts packages Monday through to Friday. We recommend that the package leaves your facility Monday through Thursday. Please do not request Saturday delivery. Invitae follows the FedEx Holiday Service Schedule.
  • If you ship your specimen from outside the United States, your shipping carrier will require three copies of a commercial (pro-forma) invoice. A sample pro-forma invoice is available. Please be sure to also include a customs declaration form. A sample saliva customs declaration form is also available.

Cell-free DNA (cfDNA)

Test type

Accepted for the following test types:

  • Non-invasive prenatal screening (NIPS)
VOLUME

  • Minimum volume is 7 mL per tube

Container

  • 10-mL black & tan top Streck cell-free DNA tubes (2 tubes)

  • Use a 21-gauge straight needle to draw (butterfly needles can result in redraw)

  • Gently invert tubes at least 10 times immediately after draw

Labeling

Each tube must be labeled with:

  • Patient’s full name, including both first and last name
  • Patient’s date of birth (MM/DD/YYYY)
  • Specimen collection date (today’s date, MM/DD/YYYY): Please note that specimen must be labeled with collection date and received within 6 days of the collection date
  • Patient’s requisition (RQ) number (if order was placed online)

The patient name and at least one additional unique identifier written on each tube must match the name and identifier provided when the test order was placed. We recommend including more than one additional unique identifier to ensure a match.

If you want to apply your own label to the tube with this information, the label CANNOT wrap fully around the tube, there must be a space where the team can see through the glass so they can extract the plasma layer.

Storage & Stability

Storage instructions:

  • Store kit at room temperature (18–30 °C or 65–86 °F) prior to specimen collection.
  • Do not freeze or refrigerate gel pack.
Documentation

A printed copy of the requisition form must be submitted with the specimen if you're not placing your order through the online portal. You can find and print a copy of the requisition form here. If you're placing an online order, a printed copy of the requisition form is helpful but not required. Please note that notes handwritten on the form will not be processed. If you need to modify your order, please contact client services.

Please note: If a NIPS order form is received with incomplete patient sex information, the patient sex will automatically be marked as female.

Shipping requirements
  • Ship the collected blood specimens(s) at ambient temperature (6–37 °C or 43–98 °F).
  • Don’t wait, specimen must be received within 6 days of specimen collection date.

To assist with specimen collection and shipping, you can request a free Invitae NIPS collection kit by submitting our online Request a Kit form. 

Due to the sensitivity of this sample, please send NIPS kits in the pink plastic FedEx mailer included with this kit. Sending these samples in the pink mailer allows us to easily identify these time-sensitive samples. Using any other mailers may jeopardize the sample quality and turn-around time. A maximum of two kits can be included in each mailer.

 

Shipping address:
    Attn: Client Services
    Invitae Corporation
    1400 16th Street
    San Francisco, CA 94103

Invitae accepts NIPS packages Monday through Saturday. We recommend that you send your package so that it leaves your facility Monday through Friday. Please do not request Sunday delivery. Invitae follows the FedEx Holiday Service Schedule.

For international samples: 

  • Don’t wait. Specimen must be received within 6 days of the specimen collection date.
  • Complete and insert 3 copies of the Pro Forma Invoice(s) and the Air Waybill Transport Document inside the document holder. A sample pro-forma invoice is available here.
    • Affix the document holder to the pink mailing bag being careful to not cover the “Exempt Human Specimen sticker” schedule a pickup by calling your local FedEx or local carrier.  If you have questions, please visit www.invitae.com/contact for local phone numbers or email us at globalsupport@invitae.com

DNA

Test type
Accepted for the following test types:
  • Diagnostic testing (panels and exome)
  • Proactive health panels
  • Carrier screening
Assay limitations
For panel testing, deletion/duplication analysis is not guaranteed for DNA specimens regardless of tissue source. Deletion/duplication analysis will be attempted for all DNA specimens; however, the success rate varies depending on specimen quality. If you require deletion/duplication analysis, please provide a whole blood or saliva specimen.

Please see the flyer Optimizing for DNA specimen success at Invitae for more information.
Specimen return and billing policy
Invitae performs an initial quality-control (QC) analysis on all DNA specimens received. If your DNA specimen fails this QC step, we will contact you and gladly return or safely dispose of any remaining DNA specimen at no charge. Please be aware that DNA specimens that pass initial QC may still fail to produce deletion/duplication results.
Specimen types accepted

We accept DNA purified from peripheral venous whole blood for panel, single-gene, and exome testing.

DNA must be extracted in a CLIA or other suitably certified laboratory.

DNA from the following sources is also accepted; however, DNA isolated from these sources is more likely to fail to meet our quality standards for read-through sequencing and deletion/duplication analysis:

  • Frozen blood
  • Buccal swab/scrape
  • Saliva
  • Mouthwash (oral rinse)
  • Muscle, skin, or liver tissue
  • Cultured fibroblasts
  • Cord blood collected at birth, but not prior to birth
DNA from the following sources is not accepted:
  • Chorionic villus sampling
  • Amniocytes
  • Products of conception or abortus
  • Tumors
  • Peripheral blood or saliva of patients with an active hematologic malignancy in circulation
  • Paraffin-embedded tissue, regardless of whether or not it is fixed in formalin
We are unable to accept:
  • Blood, saliva, assisted saliva, and buccal swabs from patients who have had an allogeneic (non-self donor) bone marrow transplant
  • Blood, saliva, assisted saliva, and buccal swabs from patients who have had an allogeneic (non-self donor) stem cell transplant
  • Blood, saliva, assisted saliva, and buccal swabs from patients who had a blood transfusion less than two weeks prior to specimen collection
Amount & concentration
  • 5 µg of DNA in TE. We recommend the use of a fluorescent-based quantification to ensure high quality double-stranded DNA. Note that the full amount will likely be consumed during our laboratory processes.
  • DNA must be at a minimum concentration of 50 ng/µl.
  • When sending DNA at higher concentrations, the minimum volume is 75 µl.
Container
We only accept 2 mL Fisher brand freestanding microcentrifuge tube with screw cap.
Labeling
The DNA container must be labeled with:
  • The patient’s full name
  • One additional unique identifier:
    • Date of birth
    • Medical record number
    • IB number, if placed by submitting clinician
    • Invitae test order ID (RQ#)
    • Medical record number
  • Specimen collection date
The patient name and at least one additional unique identifier written on the container must match the name and identifier provided when the test order was placed. We recommend including more than one additional unique identifier to ensure a match.
Documentation
The following additional information is required for DNA specimens:
  • Collection date
  • Source of the DNA (which tissue or specimen type?)

If submitting a paper order form, please handwrite this information on the form. If ordering online, you will be prompted print a copy of the online requisition form where you can handwrite this information.

Shipping requirements
DNA specimens should be shipped overnight at room temperature. We recommend including cold packs in hot weather or if shipping is expected to take longer than overnight to keep the specimen at 2 to 8 degrees Celsius (35.6 to 46.6 degrees Fahrenheit). Frozen DNA specimens should be shipped overnight using cold packs.

Please send the specimen in a crush-proof container via FedEx Priority Overnight (in accordance with the FedEx Packaging Guidelines for Clinical Samples). Please contact Invitae’s client services team to obtain the FedEx account number. (Pricing includes return shipping when sent from: US, Canada, Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.)

 Shipping address:
        Attn: Client Services
        Invitae Corporation
        1400 16th Street
        San Francisco, CA 94103
 
  • Invitae accepts packages Monday through Friday. We recommend that you send your package so that it leaves your facility Monday through Thursday. Please do not request Saturday delivery. Invitae follows the FedEx Holiday Service Schedule.
  • If you ship your specimen from outside the United States, your shipping carrier will require three copies of a commercial (pro-forma) invoice. A sample invoice for DNA is available. Please be sure to also include a customs declaration form.
More information
Please see the flyer Optimizing for DNA specimen success at Invitae for more information.

RNA

Test type
Accepted for the following test types:
  • Hereditary cancer RNA panels
VOLUME
2.5 mL per tube; minimum volume is 1.5 mL per tube
CONTAINER
  • 2.5 mL red top PAXgene RNA tube containing 6.9ml additive
  • Both EDTA and PAXgene tubes must be drawn and filled to submit for testing. PAXgene RNA tube must be drawn last; draw the  EDTA tube first. 
  • Use a butterfly needle. During blood collection, hold PAXgene tube vertically below the blood donor’s arm. Allow at least 10 seconds to fill each tube.
  • Gently invert tubes at least 8-10 times immediately after draw.
  • Refer to the instructions for use provided with the kit for additional information.
Labeling
The collection tube must be labeled with:
  • The patient’s full name
  • One additional unique identifier:
    • Date of birth (MM/DD/YYYY)
    • Medical record number
    • IB number, if placed by submitting clinician
    • Invitae test order ID (RQ#)
  • Specimen collection date (MM/DD/YYYY): Please note that specimen must be labeled with collection date and received within 3 days of the collection date.
The patient name and at least one additional unique identifier written on the tube must match the name and identifier provided when the test order was placed. We recommend including more than one additional unique identifier to ensure a match.
STORAGE & STABILITY
  • Pre collection: Store the unused RNA + Hereditary Cancer Blood Collection Kit at room temperature (18°C–25ºC)
  • Post collection: Store the RNA + Hereditary Cancer Blood Collection Kit at either room temperature (18°C–25ºC) or refrigerated until pickup. Collection kits should be shipped ASAP. If overnight storage is necessary, refrigeration is preferred.

DOCUMENTATION
A printed copy of the requisition form must be submitted with the specimen if you're not placing your order through the online portal. You can find and print a copy of the requisition form here. If you're placing an online order, a printed copy of the requisition form is helpful but not required. Please note that notes handwritten on the form will not be processed. If you need to modify your order, please contact client services.

Shipping requirements
Don’t wait. The specimen must be received within 3 days of specimen collection date.
To assist with specimen collection and shipping, you can request a free Invitae collection kit by submitting our online Request a Kit form. 
Due to the sensitivity of this sample, please send kits in the plastic FedEx mailer included with this kit. Using any other mailers may jeopardize the sample quality and turn-around time. A maximum of two kits can be included in each mailer.


 Shipping address:
        Attn: Client Services
        Invitae Corporation
        1400 16th Street
        San Francisco, CA 94103
 
  • Invitae accepts packages Monday through Saturday. We recommend that you send your package so that it leaves your facility Monday through Thursday. Please do not request Sunday delivery. Invitae follows the FedEx Holiday Service Schedule.
  • For international samples, don’t wait. The specimen must be received within 3 days of the specimen collection date. 
    • Complete and insert the Pro Forma Invoice(s), Invitae Customs Declaration Letter, and Air Waybill Transport Document inside the document holder. Affix the document holder to the mailing bag being careful to not cover the “Exempt Human Specimen sticker.” Schedule a pickup by calling your local FedEx or local carrier.  If you have questions, please visit www.invitae.com/contact for local phone numbers or email us at globalsupport@invitae.com.

Post-mortem specimens

After the death of a loved one from a suspected inherited condition, post-mortem genetic testing may provide valuable information for family members. Post-mortem testing may help confirm the deceased person’s cause of death, as well as clarify whether family members could benefit from genetic testing for the same condition.

Post-mortem genetic testing involves consideration of several important factors prior to testing. Below is general information about Invitae’s testing process for post-mortem analysis. Due to the sensitive nature of this type of analysis and these specimens, we require that clinicians contact us before sending a post-mortem specimen. 
Test type
Accepted for the following test type:
  • Diagnostic testing (panels and exome)
Specimen types
Please refer to the whole blood or DNA tabs on this page for specimen requirements.
Specimen quality
The success of genetic testing is dependent on specimen quality. While we make every effort to generate complete test results, this may not always be possible if a specimen is of poor quality. Deletion/duplication testing is not guaranteed for DNA isolated in other labs or for frozen blood.
Container
Containers accepted for whole blood post-mortem specimens:
  • We prefer specimens sent in EDTA purple-top or pink-top tubes. We accept both K2EDTA and K3EDTA.
  • We accept specimens sent in gray-top tubes containing sodium fluoride and either potassium oxalate or Na2EDTA. Deletion/duplication analysis is not guaranteed for these specimens.
Specimen storage & send-out
Invitae is unable to store or hold specimens at this time. We encourage consideration of DNA banking through other facilities specifically focused on long-term DNA storage.
Specimens received that do not meet Invitae’s minimum requirements for testing may be returned to the sender. Specimens that meet minimum requirements will start the testing process and will likely be consumed.
Payment & billing
Families have the option of paying $250 per clinical area for testing when the test is ordered online by a clinician. For this option, a family member agrees to register the deceased patient through Invitae’s online patient portal and provide payment by credit card upfront and in full. This family member must be the authorized next-of-kin because the portal will display test results, and these can only be accessed by authorized individuals. Please note that insurance does not typically cover post-mortem testing, so we cannot submit claims to insurers for tests performed on deceased patients.
Results reporting
The results of genetic testing are reported to the ordering clinician. The family member who registered the patient in the Invitae patient portal may request a copy of the patient’s test results, which will become available online once reviewed and released by the ordering clinician.
Shipping requirements
Please refer to the whole blood or DNA tabs on this page for shipping requirements for these specimen types.

Embryo biopsy

Test type
Accepted for the following test type:
  • Preimplantation genetic testing

Embryo biopsies are accepted for preimplantation genetic testing for chromosomal aneuploidy (PGT-A) and structural rearrangements/translocations (PGT-SR). PGT-SR is accepted on a case by case basis and requires a completed PGT referral form and approval from Invitae’s medical team prior to sample submission.

Please see the complete guide to biopsy and shipping instructions for PGT.  

Specimen types
  • Invitae PGT can be performed on trophectoderm/blastocyst biopsy samples only.
  • No fresh transfers can be accommodated.
  • All samples must arrive in the Invitae tubes (0.2 mL) provided.
  • All samples must arrive in ~2.5 to 3.5 μL of the Invitae buffer provided.
  • All samples must be frozen prior to shipping and remain frozen during the shipping process. Samples stored at room temperature may render samples unable to be tested.
  • All samples must be received within two weeks of biopsy.
Specimen quality
The success of genetic testing is dependent on specimen quality. While we make every effort to generate complete test results, this may not always be possible if a specimen is of poor quality. For the best test outcome, please follow your laboratory’s standard sterile procedures and the steps listed below.
Labeling
Prior to loading the samples in the rack, use a permanent marker to clearly label the tube cap and the sidewall with the appropriate embryo # and complete the Biopsy worksheet form included in your kit.  All columns must be complete and legible so that sample processing is not delayed. Once samples are placed in the rack inside the Invitae kit, please follow these labeling instructions:
  • Affix the large Invitae barcode sticker to the outside of the rack and label with the patient’s name and DOB.
  • The medium barcode stickers are for any patient-related paperwork included in the shipment (e.g., the Biopsy worksheet form, Patient consent form, Test requisition form, etc.).
  • The small barcode stickers should be used to associate each tube with the appropriate rack. Each sticker should be wrapped around the tube so that it sticks to itself. Please ensure that the embryo # is visible on the sticker and the top of the tube.
Storage & Stability
Prior to use, the Invitae PGT kit and its components may be stored at room temperature. Immediately place the Invitae rack upright in a freezer once samples have been added to the rack.
  • Invitae buffer will turn yellow to indicate that it is frozen.
  • Samples may be stored frozen for up to one week.
Documentation
PGT samples cannot be processed without:
Shipping requirements


KIT PACKAGING

Small shipper (1–2 patients)

  • Remove the ice packs from the freezer.
  • Place 2 ice packs in the bottom of the styrofoam container.
  • Place a foam insert with cutout on top of the ice packs.
  • Place the biohazard bag containing the PCR rack inside the cut out. It should fit tightly in the cutout. You may ship an additional sample rack if you wish, however it is not necessary. Ensure the rack(s) are upright in the cutout.
  • Place 3 ice packs on top.
  • Place cooler lid on styrofoam container.
  • Seal kit and follow shipping steps below.

Large shipper (up to 4 patients)

  • Remove the ice packs from the freezer.
  • Place 2 ice packs in the bottom of the styrofoam container.
  • Place a foam insert with cutout on top the ice packs.
  • Place 2 biohazard bags containing the PCR racks in the cutout. Ensure the racks are upright in the cutout.
  • Place 1 ice pack on top.
  • Place a foam insert with cutout on top of the ice pack.
  • Place remaining biohazard bags containing the PCR racks in the cutout. Ensure the racks are upright in the cutout.
  • Place 3 ice packs on top.
  • Place foam plug on top.
  • Place cooler lid on styrofoam container.
  • Seal kit and follow shipping steps below.

SHIPPING

  • Place the styrofoam container in the cardboard shipping box.
  • Seal the kit and affix the prepaid FedEx shipping label to the box.
  • Schedule a pickup by visiting fedex.com or bring your kit to your local FedEx office. 

We do not accept shipments on Sundays. Please ensure your shipment arrives Monday-Saturday, otherwise your shipment may be rejected.

Please send your sample within two weeks of biopsy.

Ship samples for overnight delivery to:

        Invitae Corporation
        1400 16th Street
        San Francisco, CA 94103

If you are shipping your specimen from outside the United States:
Pricing includes return shipping when sent from: Canada, Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. Dry ice coordination is the sender’s responsibility. Your shipping carrier will require three copies of a commercial (pro-forma) invoice. A sample invoice is available here. Please be sure to also include a customs declaration letter. A sample customs declaration letter is available here.

Amniotic fluid

Test type
Accepted for Invitae’s prenatal diagnostic tests:
  • Prenatal microarray analysis
  • G-banded karyotype
  • Rapid interphase fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH)
VOLUME
Dependent upon test type(s) ordered and gestational age:
  • 10-15 mL for direct microarray analysis
  • 10-15 mL for culturing for karyotype or FISH analysis
  • 5 mL for rapid interphase FISH for 13, 18, 21, X, and Y
Container
  • Sterile 15-ml conical tube(s)
Labeling
Label with the following information:
  • Patient’s full name, including legal first and last name
  • Patient’s date of birth (MM/DD/YYYY)
  • Patient’s sex
  • Specimen collection date (today’s date)
  • Sex of the fetus (if known)
Storage & Stability
  • The sample should be stored and shipped at ambient temperature (50-86 °F/10-30 °C).
  • Ship with a cold pack during hot weather conditions.
  • Please mail the specimen to Invitae within 1-2 days of collection for best results.
Documentation
Shipping requirements
To assist with specimen collection and shipping, contact Invitae to request a free collection kit.

Shipping address:
        Attn: Client Services
        Invitae Corporation
        5 Technology Drive
        Irvine, CA 92618
 
  • Invitae’s Irvine lab accepts packages Monday through Saturday. We recommend that you send your package so that it leaves your facility Monday through Friday. Invitae follows the FedEx Holiday Service Schedule.
  • Include cold packs when shipping from outside the US and Canada in hot weather, or if shipping is expected to take longer than overnight, to keep the specimen at ambient temperature (50–86 °F/10–30 °C).
  • If you ship your specimen from outside the United States, your shipping carrier will require three copies of a commercial (pro-forma) invoice (a sample invoice is available here). In addition to the Air Waybill, Invitae provides 3 copies of a proforma invoice and a customs declaration form (a sample customs declaration form is available here).
More information
For more information about our specimen retention policy, please visit our FAQ page

Buccal swabs

Test type
Accepted for the following test types:
  • Pediatric diagnostic testing (panels and exome)
  • Pediatric and parental microarray analysis
We are unable to accept:
  • Blood, saliva, assisted saliva, and buccal swabs from patients who have had an allogeneic (non-self donor) bone marrow transplant
  • Blood, saliva, assisted saliva, and buccal swabs from patients who have had an allogeneic (non-self donor) stem cell transplant
  • Blood, saliva, assisted saliva, and buccal swabs from patients who had a blood transfusion less than two weeks prior to specimen collection
Specimen types

Hematologic conditions:
Results may be affected for blood, saliva, or buccal specimens from patients with certain hematological conditions that are actively circulating in the peripheral blood. In such cases, a specimen type that does not contain leukocytes is suggested, such as gDNA extracted from cultured fibroblasts obtained via a skin biopsy. Please see the “Specimens for patients with hematological conditions” section on this page for more information.

CONTAINER
  • ORAcollect Dx OCD-100 cheek swabs (2 swabs must be collected per patient per order)
Labeling
Both collection tubes must be labeled with:

The patient name and at least one additional unique identifier written on the tube (such as DOB) must match the name and identifier provided when the test order was placed. We recommend including more than one additional unique identifier to ensure a match.

  • The patient’s full name
  • Date of birth (MM/DD/YYYY)
  • Specimen collection date
Storage & Stability
  • Pre-collection: Store the collection devices at room temperature (15°C–25°C/59°F–77°F).
  • Post-collection: Samples can be kept at room temperature (15°C–25°C/59°F–77°F) up to 60 days from collection time.
  • Ship the specimens to Invitae directly after collection for best results.
Documentation
  • For pediatric diagnostic testing:
    • A printed copy of the requisition form must be submitted with the specimen if you're not placing your order through the online portal. You can find and print a copy of the requisition form here.
    • If you're placing an online order, a printed copy of the requisition form is helpful but not required.
    • Please note that notes handwritten on the form will not be processed.
    • If you need to modify your order, please contact Client Services.
  • For pediatric microarray and parental/familial studies:
    • A printed copy of the requisition form must be submitted with the specimen. You can find and print a copy of the requisition form here.
    • If you need to modify your order, please contact Client Services.
Shipping requirements
Ship at room temperature.

To assist with specimen collection and shipping, you can request a free Invitae collection kit by submitting a Request a Kit form online. Alternatively, you can send us the specimens in a crush-proof container via FedEx Priority Overnight (in accordance with the FedEx Packaging Guidelines for Clinical Samples).

Please contact Please contact Invitae’s Client Services team with questions.

Shipping address:
     Attn: Client Services
     Invitae Corporation
     1400 16th Street
     San Francisco, CA 94103
 
  • Invitae accepts packages Monday through Saturday. Invitae follows the FedEx Holiday Service Schedule.
  • If you ship your specimens from outside the United States, your shipping carrier will require three copies of a commercial (pro-forma) invoice (a sample invoice is available here). In addition to the Air Waybill, Invitae provides 3 copies of a proforma invoice and a customs declaration form (a sample customs declaration form is available here).

Chorionic villi

Test type
Accepted for Invitae’s prenatal diagnostic tests:
  • Prenatal microarray analysis
  • G-banded karyotype
  • Rapid interphase fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH)
VOLUME
Dependent upon test type(s) ordered and gestational age:
  • 10-15 mL for direct microarray analysis
  • 10-15 mL for culturing for karyotype or FISH analysis
  • 5 mL for rapid interphase FISH for 13, 18, 21, X, and Y
Please refer to specimen collection instructions in your kit.
Container
  • Sterile screw top container with Invitae RPMI media
  • Please contact Invitae for RPMI media
Labeling
Label with the following information:
  • Patient’s full name, including legal first and last name
  • Patient’s date of birth (MM/DD/YYYY)
  • Patient’s sex
  • Specimen collection date (today’s date)
  • Sex of the fetus (if known)
Storage & Stability
  • The sample should be stored and shipped at ambient temperature (50-86 °F/10-30 °C).
  • Ship with a cold pack during hot weather conditions.
  • Please mail the specimen to Invitae within 1-2 days of collection for best results.
Documentation
Shipping requirements
To assist with specimen collection and shipping, contact Invitae to request a free specimen collection kit complete with a pre-paid shipping label.

Shipping address:
        Attn: Client Services
        Invitae Corporation
        5 Technology Drive
        Irvine, CA 92618
 
  • Invitae’s Irvine lab accepts packages Monday through Saturday. We recommend that you send your package so that it leaves your facility Monday through Friday. Invitae follows the FedEx Holiday Service Schedule.
  • Include cold packs when shipping from outside the US and Canada in hot weather, or if shipping is expected to take longer than overnight, to keep the specimen at ambient temperature (50–86 °F/10–30 °C).
  • If you ship your specimen from outside the United States, your shipping carrier will require three copies of a commercial (pro-forma) invoice (a sample invoice is available here). In addition to the Air Waybill, Invitae provides 3 copies of a proforma invoice and a customs declaration form (a sample customs declaration form is available here).
More information
For more information about our specimen retention policy, please visit our FAQ page.

Cultured amniocytes/cultured villi

Test type
Accepted for the following test types:
  • Invitae’s microarray for prenatal diagnosis only
VOLUME
  • 2 confluent T-25s for microarray analysis
Container
  • T-25 flask
Labeling
Label with the following information:
  • Patient’s full name, including legal first and last name
  • Patient’s date of birth (MM/DD/YYYY)
  • Patient’s sex
  • Specimen collection date (today’s date)
  • Sex of the fetus (if known)
Storage & Stability
  • After incubation, please ship flasks at room temperature.
Documentation
Shipping requirements
To assist with specimen collection and shipping, contact Invitae to request a free specimen collection kit.

Shipping address:
        Attn: Client Services
        Invitae Corporation
        5 Technology Drive
        Irvine, CA 92618
 
  • Invitae’s Irvine lab accepts packages Monday through Saturday. We recommend that you send your package so that it leaves your facility Monday through Friday. Invitae follows the FedEx Holiday Service Schedule.
  • Include cold packs when shipping from outside the US and Canada in hot weather, or if shipping is expected to take longer than overnight, to keep the specimen at ambient temperature (50–86 °F/10–30 °C).
  • If you ship your specimen from outside the United States, your shipping carrier will require three copies of a commercial (pro-forma) invoice (a sample invoice is available here). In addition to the Air Waybill, Invitae provides 3 copies of a proforma invoice and a customs declaration form (a sample customs declaration form is available here).

Fresh fetal or placental tissue

Test type
Accepted for the following test types:
  • Chromosomal microarray for miscarriage analysis
Specimen types
  • Fresh placental or fetal tissue submerged in room-temperature stable POC transport media or sterile saline
VOLUME
  • 15-20 mg fetal or placental tissue placed in transport media in a 50 mL specimen jar
    • First trimester losses / no visible fetal parts
      If no fetal parts are visible, it is ideal to collect a minimum of 25 mg of chorionic villi (1.0 cm3, about the size of a small marble) from the placenta. For best results, clean the specimen prior to sending by removing large blood clots from the sample and washing the tissue with sterile saline until it is clear of blood. Cleaning the tissue reduces the likelihood of contamination from maternal blood and allows for better identification of the fetal tissue. When possible, separate the villi from the maternal decidua. (Decidua looks pink, dense, and sheet like. Villi, when well-rinsed, tend to float and look feathery and whiter than the decidua.)

      If it is not possible to clean the sample before sending it, please collect a larger sample (1.5 cm3, about the size of a large marble) to ensure that sufficient villi are included. It is important that the sample is placed in the provided POC transport media to keep it moist and prevent bacterial growth while in transit. If the transport media is not available, sterile saline can be used. Avoid storing samples in formalin-based solutions. If the sample cannot be stored in transport media or saline, it can be fixed in formalin and embedded in a paraffin block (FFPE).
       
    • Later losses, intrauterine fetal demise, and stillbirth / visible fetal parts
      When fetal parts are visible, the ideal fetal tissue to collect is skeletal or cardiac muscle. Samples of the skin, connective tissue, or internal organs are also acceptable. If you are unable to collect a fetal sample, collect a 1-2 mL of cord blood or a section of the umbilical cord near the site of insertion instead.. The minimum recommended sample size for fetal or umbilical cord tissue is 25 mg or ~1.0 cm3 (about the size of a small marble).
Labeling
Label with the following information:
  • Patient’s full name, including legal first and last name
  • Patient’s date of birth (MM/DD/YYYY)
  • Patient’s sex
  • Specimen collection date (today’s date)
  • Sex of the fetus (if known)
Storage & Stability
  • Storage conditions
    • Store fresh tissue POC sample in a clinical refrigerator (39 °F/4 °C) or at ambient temperature (50–86 °F/10–30 °C).
    • Do not freeze. Keep out of direct sunlight.
  • Shipping conditions
    • Ship samples at ambient temperature (50–86 °F/10–30 °C).
    • Ship specimens with a cold pack during hot weather conditions).
    • Do not freeze.
Documentation
  • A printed and completed copy of the requisition form must be submitted with the specimen. You can find and print a copy of the form here.
  • If you need to modify your order, please contact Client Services.
Shipping requirements
To assist with specimen collection and shipping, contact Invitae to request a free specimen collection kit.

Shipping address:
        Attn: Client Services
        Invitae Corporation
        5 Technology Drive
        Irvine, CA 92618
 
  • Invitae’s Irvine lab accepts packages Monday through Saturday. We recommend that you send your package so that it leaves your facility Monday through Friday. Invitae follows the FedEx Holiday Service Schedule.
  • Include cold packs when shipping from outside the US and Canada in hot weather, or if shipping is expected to take longer than overnight, to keep the specimen at ambient temperature (50–86 °F/10–30 °C).
  • If you ship your specimen from outside the United States, your shipping carrier will require three copies of a commercial (pro-forma) invoice (a sample invoice is available here). In addition to the Air Waybill, Invitae provides 3 copies of a proforma invoice and a customs declaration form (a sample customs declaration form is available here).
More information
This flyer offers more information on specimen requirements for pregnancy loss chromosomal microarray analysis.

Formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissue block or unstained slides

Test type
Accepted for the following test types:
  • Chromosomal microarray for miscarriage analysis only
VOLUME
  • 1 FFPE block with >1 cm3 of fetal tissue or 10 unstained slides with 7 micron-thick sections plus one H&E stained slide
Labeling
Label with the following information:
  • Patient’s full name, including legal first and last name
  • Patient’s date of birth (MM/DD/YYYY)
  • Patient’s sex
  • Specimen collection date (today’s date)
  • Sex of the fetus (if known)
Storage & Stability
  • Storage conditions
    • Store fresh tissue POC sample in a clinical refrigerator (39 °F/4 °C) or at ambient
      temperature (50–86 °F/10–30 °C).
    • Do not freeze. Keep out of direct sunlight.
  • Shipping conditions
    • Ship samples at ambient temperature (50–86 °F/10–30 °C).
    • Ship specimens with a cold pack during hot weather conditions.
    • Do not freeze.
Documentation
  • A printed and completed copy of the requisition form must be submitted with the specimen. You can find and print a copy of the form here.
  • Please note that notes handwritten on the form will not be processed.
  • If you need to modify your order, please contact client services.
Shipping requirements
To assist with specimen collection and shipping, contact Invitae to request a free specimen collection kit.
 
Shipping address:
        Attn: Client Services
        Invitae Corporation
        5 Technology Drive
        Irvine, CA 92618
 
  • Invitae’s Irvine lab accepts packages Monday through Saturday. We recommend that you send your package so that it leaves your facility Monday through Friday. Invitae follows the FedEx Holiday Service Schedule.
  • Include cold packs when shipping from outside the US and Canada in hot weather, or if shipping is expected to take longer than overnight, to keep the specimen at ambient temperature (50–86 °F/10–30 °C).
  • If you ship your specimen from outside the United States, your shipping carrier will require three copies of a commercial (pro-forma) invoice (a sample invoice is available here). In addition to the Air Waybill, Invitae provides 3 copies of a proforma invoice and a customs declaration form (a sample customs declaration form is available here).

SPECIMENS FOR PATIENTS WITH HEMATOLOGICAL CONDITIONS

Patients with certain active hematological conditions may have circulating leukocytes containing abnormal somatic variants. Leukocytes are found in blood, saliva and buccal specimens. The presence of these somatic variants can affect testing success, sensitivity and specificity. As a result, testing of DNA extracted from cultured fibroblasts may be recommended in some cases. 

Please note, we are unable to accept blood, saliva, assisted saliva, and buccal swabs from patients who have had an allogeneic (non-self donor) bone marrow transplant, stem cell transplant, or a blood transfusion less than two weeks prior to specimen collection. DNA extracted from cultured fibroblasts are recommended for these patients.

Please see the Invitae guide to specimen selection for patients with hematological conditions for more detailed information and recommendations.

If you have a question about a condition not included in the guide linked above or have follow-up questions or concerns, please contact our clinical team at 1 (800) 436-3037 or clinconsult@invitae.com.
Test type
Accepted for the following test types:
  • Diagnostic testing (panels and exome)
  • Carrier screening
  • Proactive health panels
Specimen types
Please refer to the whole blood, buccal, saliva, or DNA tabs on this page for specimen requirements.
Specimen quality
The success of genetic testing is dependent on specimen quality. While we make every effort to generate complete test results, this may not always be possible if a specimen is of poor quality. Deletion/duplication testing is not guaranteed for DNA isolated in other labs or for frozen blood.
Container & LABELING
Please refer to the whole blood, buccal, saliva, or DNA tabs on this page for container and labeling requirements.
storage & send-out
Invitae is unable to store or hold specimens at this time. We encourage consideration of DNA banking through other facilities specifically focused on long-term DNA storage. Specimens received that do not meet Invitae’s minimum requirements for testing may be returned to the sender. Specimens that meet minimum requirements will start the testing process and will likely be consumed.
Shipping requirements
Please refer to the whole blood, buccal, saliva, or DNA tabs on this page for shipping requirements for these specimen types.