Shipping Liquid Samples: Why Parafilm (or Saran Wrap) Is Required

Liquids need a little extra care, and one small step makes all the difference: parafilm. Bubble wrap keeps the container safe, and parafilm keeps the liquid where it should be — together they’re a great team.

Here’s why we care so much about this one. We’ve received beautifully bubble-wrapped samples that still leaked, all because the lid wasn’t sealed with parafilm. A few seconds of wrapping would have saved the whole sample — so we want to make sure yours arrives safe and sound.

How to seal a liquid sample

1. Close the container nice and tight.

2. Wrap the lid and seal in parafilm — a snug layer over the full seal.

3. No parafilm on hand? Saran wrap or any tight-cling plastic wrap does the trick.

4. Bubble-wrap and box it up as usual.

Why it’s worth the extra step

A leaked sample usually can’t be tested, which means resubmitting — a delay for your results and often another shipping cost for you. Parafilm takes seconds and saves all of that. We’d much rather see your sample arrive ready to test.

We’re here to help

Not sure if your container needs it? Reach out to support@lightlabs.com and we’ll happily talk it through.