The Challenge

In the fast-paced world of lab analysis, where precision and time are crucial, Eurofins Genomics needed to enhance the way they managed their international specimen shipments. Specializing in testing for various sectors including pharmaceuticals, biotech, research, and more, Eurofins Genomics operates across 20 countries in Western and Central Europe. Their existing logistics model for their genomic division relied on mostly traditional drop boxes for DNA sample transport. While drop boxes can be a reliable means for secure sample handling to a logistics provider, they offer limited visibility and control, which can affect the timely delivery and processing of samples to a central lab.

Eurofins Genomics' reverse logistics system relied extensively on a complex network of over 540 drop boxes across various countries, all connecting to their central lab in Cologne, Germany. The system's efficacy was heavily dependent on efficient initial pickups and speed back to the central lab.

The Solution

Through planning sessions, Eurofins Genomics collaborated with UPS Healthcare to implement key solutions.

1.    UPS^® Pickup Point
Eurofins Genomics was among the first companies to utilize the UPS^® Pickup Point solution when the service expanded into five major European countries. This innovation began strengthening their logistics model by providing enhanced visibility and streamlining the pickup process.
How does it work?

• Reliable Pickup Times: During the installation process, a specific daily pickup time is scheduled, taking into account both lab and UPS requirements and availability. If a specimen is collected and the shipment is prepared before this agreed time, the collection site can anticipate a UPS driver to make the pickup. If a specimen is not collected for the day, it can also remove the need for a driver to make the stop, creating immediate efficiency and improving over time. Placards can also be installed inside a collection site or outside on the drop box if the established pickup time is afterhours.
• Enhanced visibility: After installation and activation, a placard becomes part of UPS’s Quantum View^® small parcel customer portal. This platform connects the Eurofins Genomics collection site, their central lab, and UPS Healthcare. It can alert all users when a shipment is ready and track its progress as it is scanned at critical points along its journey.
• On-Demand Pickups: Labs can assign qualified placards for on-demand pickup times, allowing for last-minute shipment creation with flexible time ranges. The driver's route will then accommodate the scheduled pickup.
• Accountability and Oversight: As shipments flow for a lab, a portal user can view the status of shipments as they travel back to the central lab. Data and performance are automatically recorded allowing for Eurofins Genomics to make internal business decisions based on historical activity.

2.    Early Extraction - Precision Logistics

Once Eurofins Genomics' shipments enter the shipping network, another ideal enhancement to their model is the Early Extraction solution. This specialty premium service requires customers to meet a daily volume threshold, as well as having the final mile delivery be within a certain kilometer radius to make business sense.

Because the Eurofins Genomics central lab sits in the same area as the UPS International Air Hub in Cologne, Germany, Early Extraction helps them expedite the shipment processing. Their shipments are identified early in package sort, separated in a marked bag, picked up by a driver and will arrive in the early morning to the central lab.

The collaboration provides efficient sample processing with Eurofins Genomic Overnight Products, which are samples delivered between 2:00–4:00 AM that are processed and reported within 9 hours, and Same-Day solutions for standardized sequencing. Their ONT Lite Whole Plasmid Sequencing (WPS) solution in particular can achieve a typical turnaround time of just 24 hours after sample receipt, far exceeding the external three-day timeframe.

The Results

The implementation of solutions in critical touchpoints has improved Eurofins Genomics' logistics performance.

The enhanced visibility and control reduced internal complaints, bolstered trust in third-party logistics, and led to significant efficiency gains. Customers using Eurofins Genomics' drop boxes experience faster sample handling compared to standard courier or postal services.

• Eurofins Genomics reports a 99% success rate in timely pickups¹, enabling better planning and resource allocation.
• With an on-time delivery rate of over 95%², Eurofins Genomics and UPS Healthcare ensure exceptional reliability and consistent sequencing diagnostics services.

Eurofins Genomics operations reported increased speed, improved reliability, and greater confidence to scale their operations while minimizing risk—marking a significant step forward in their growth journey.

Streamline your logistics strategy and achieve greater visibility in your laboratory operations. Connect with our experienced professionals to find a tailor-made solution for your lab analysis or diagnostics needs.

¹ Based on 2024 performance data of active placards in UPS Quantum View system
² Based on 2024 customer performance data from Eurofins Genomics

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