Abstract: An apparatus for storing and shipping a coded set of related culture specimens without risk of contamination or contact between individually coded specimens, comprising a closeable case having multiple individual storage cells and a coding scheme applied to the surfaces of the case. The coding scheme identifies and matches individually coded specimens with their respective storage cells.

Abstract: The present invention discloses an apparatus for the collection and transportation of cell specimens comprising a polypropylene shaft, a dental foam swab formed in the shape of a multi-apexed polygon affixed to one end of the shaft, and a polypropylene cap affixed to the other end of the shaft. The cap is matingly engageable with a polypropylene tube proportioned to house the shaft and swab. Preferably, approximately 75% of the surface area of the cap is vented. Preferably, a tamper-evident seal is adhered about the engagement of the cap and tube and coordinated bar-coded labels are affixed to the cap and tube.