Can you drop samples directly at the lab?

For “Can you drop samples directly at the lab”, the practical answer comes down to: Lab receiving windows; Chain-of-custody when required; Courier vs handoff. Your visit still depends on address, window, and what your order or kit requires—complete paperwork speeds routing.

Common situations: STAT panels with tight cutoffs; Local programs with direct lab relationships. On site, success means correct tubes, labeling, and any spin or temperature steps your lab or IFU specifies.

Lab receiving windows interacts with chain-of-custody when required—adjust one and the visit plan may change. Mobile collection is professional venipuncture where you choose, with handling aligned to your lab—not a substitute for your clinician’s orders.

If you’re in one of these buckets—STAT panels with tight cutoffs; Local programs with direct lab relationships—book with orders, ID expectations, and special handling notes spelled out. Related questions below go deeper without repeating this page.