In today’s life sciences and clinical research environments, the sheer volume of biosamples in circulation continues to grow. From blood, tissue, and cell samples to temperature-sensitive reagents and biologicals, one of the most critical — and challenging — questions is: how do we store and protect these materials, especially during a move or facility transition?
At Laboratory Movers, we specialize in cryogenic and cold chain transport. We partner with labs and institutions who are relocating, downsizing, or upgrading their storage capabilities and need secure, compliant interim storage and logistics solutions. If your internal infrastructure is maxed out — or you’re preparing for a move — this guide will help you plan for uninterrupted cold storage and biosample protection.
The Challenge of In-House Cold Storage
Most labs were designed to perform research — not operate as full-time storage facilities. Maintaining a robust cold chain requires space, equipment, personnel, backup systems, and regulatory oversight. Even one oversight — like a freezer failure or power outage — can result in devastating research loss.
The typical internal challenges we see include:
- Overcrowded or poorly indexed freezer systems
- Aging equipment with limited alarm or monitoring capabilities
- Untrained or underinformed support staff
- Lack of backup systems or SOPs in case of emergency
- Insufficient space for additional cold storage units during facility changes
Best Practices for Cold Storage During a Laboratory Move
1. Temporary Cold Chain Support
When your lab is on the move, don’t risk “make-do” solutions. We provide generator-powered transport vehicles, portable ULT freezer units, and on-site storage support to ensure your materials remain within precise temperature ranges from start to finish.
We accommodate:
- -80°C, -20°C, and 2–8°C environments
- Active monitoring and remote temperature tracking
- Short-term storage solutions between phases of relocation
- Redundant freezer units and dry ice support, where appropriate
2. Sample Labeling and Chain of Custody
Biological materials lose value the moment their chain of custody is broken. Our inventory system ensures every vial, container, and batch is accounted for — with barcode tracking, digital logs, and time-stamped handoffs throughout the moving process.
We offer:
- Full digital audit trails for every container
- Barcode scanning at pickup, transit, and delivery
- Secure access protocols to maintain compliance
3. Skilled, Trained Professionals
Improper handling of biosamples during relocation can lead to degradation, contamination, or regulatory violations. Our staff is trained in GxP practices and understands the sensitive nature of cold chain logistics.
All our cryogenic moves are:
- Overseen by experienced project leads
- Staffed with trained lab movers and hazmat-certified handlers
- Backed by custom SOPs developed for your lab’s unique materials
4. Contingency and Disaster Planning
If your internal freezers go down during a move or renovation, do you have a recovery plan? We do. Laboratory Movers has backup transport vehicles, alternative storage facilities, and regional routing options in place for urgent interventions.
Our emergency readiness includes:
- Same-day retrieval of at-risk samples
- Generator-equipped trucks for prolonged outage coverage
- Climate-controlled storage partnerships for temporary access
Protect What You Can’t Replace
Whether your team is moving a few cold rooms or an entire cryogenic suite, the risks are real — and the margin for error is razor thin. Laboratory Movers combines logistical precision, regulatory know-how, and specialized equipment to ensure your samples stay viable and compliant throughout the process.
Need a plan?
Call us at 888.828.3227 or request a quote online to get started.