he transport of the samples to the laboratory for testing should be executed so that sampling container contents spillage or coolant seepage into samples does not occur. This may involve protective bagging of sample containers and/or the application of additional barriers (such as tape or Parafilm*) to protect the sealing surfaces from leakage or seepage during the rigors of transport. In addition, depending on the attributes of concern for the sample and its intended testing destination, temperature control may also be important if it is necessary to preserve the attributes of the sample during the transport period. This may involve the use of insulated containers as well as the use of coolant materials such as waterless cold packs. The use of water ice should be avoided since sloshing and seepage of this melting coolant into inadequately sealed sampling containers could occur. Similarly, the use of ultra-cold coolants should be avoided since the freezing of the sampled water in the container is usually contraindicated for most types of samples. The intent of the coolant is to bring the temperature of the samples to a reasonably controlled range, usually lower than the ambient conditions of the original sample. However, during winter months or air cargo shipments, the ambient temperature of the shipping process could freeze the samples, so protection from external low temperatures should also be factored into the temperature control process during transport. Once the sample is sealed into the container and its transport begins, its "storage" in that container also begins, so expeditious transport to the testing facility is usually important.