Packaging and Transport

To preserve the integrity of forensic evidence, it must be packaged, sealed, and labeled correctly. Crime scene investigators (CSI), carry, in their vehicle, supplies of paper bags (Kraft bags), polyethylene bags, brown paper, flat-pack cardboard boxes, weapon tubes, envelopes, and plain unused paper for this purpose. In addition, they also carry nylon bags and various metal containers of the designs used to contain paint stripper and other volatile liquids. Many bags and boxes are supplied with evidence vouchers, chain of custody forms preprinted. Others may require the voucher to be attached. While the methods of packaging exhibits and transport employed in different countries are broadly the same these can vary considerably in some respects, reflecting different operating environments and legal requirements. It is only possible to give general guidelines and it is advisable to check local protocols and laboratory packaging guidelines. Many US state and county crime labs publish their guidelines on the Internet. Keywords: packaging; storage; transport; bags; boxes