Frequently Asked Questions
Ordering, payment, shipping, documentation and returns — the answers our account specialists give most often.
Ordering
How do I place an order?
Email your requisition to manager@vpscientific.com or call (614) 671-3008. Send manufacturer part numbers where you have them; a description and photograph of the shelf label is also enough for us to identify most items. You will receive a firm written quotation before anything ships.
Is there a minimum order value?
No. Orders below $75 carry a $9.50 handling charge; above that, only published freight applies.
How long is a quotation valid?
Standard quotations are valid for 30 days. Grant and capital quotations can be issued with 60- or 90-day validity on request, subject to manufacturer price stability.
Can I set up recurring deliveries?
Yes. Standing orders run monthly, quarterly or on a semester calendar, with pricing locked for the term and quantities adjustable up to five business days before each release.
Payment & accounts
What payment methods do you accept?
Purchase orders from approved institutions, major credit cards and ACH bank transfer. First orders from new commercial accounts are typically prepaid.
Do you offer Net 30 terms?
Yes, for universities, hospitals, government laboratories and established companies following a short credit review. Terms are confirmed in writing before your first invoice.
How do I apply tax exemption?
Send your state exemption certificate with your first order. Once it is on file we apply it automatically to all subsequent invoices for that account.
Can you invoice a purchasing portal?
We support most portal and punch-out workflows. Send the portal details with your first requisition and we will complete the supplier registration.
Shipping
When will my order ship?
Stocked items ordered before 2:00 PM ET ship the same business day. Non-stocked items ship from the manufacturer, with the commit date stated on your quotation.
Do you ship outside the United States?
We currently ship within the 50 U.S. states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico. We do not export.
How is cold-chain material handled?
Temperature-sensitive items ship with gel packs or dry ice on overnight service only, dispatched Monday through Wednesday to avoid weekend transit.
What if a shipment arrives damaged?
Photograph the carton and contents, keep the packaging, and notify us within five business days. We open a carrier claim and arrange replacement without waiting for the claim to close.
Products & documentation
Will you substitute an out-of-stock item?
Only with your written approval. If a line is unavailable we quote the manufacturer's published cross-reference and let you decide.
Can I get a certificate of analysis?
Yes, for any lot where the manufacturer issues one. Certificates ship with the goods and remain retrievable from our records for five years.
Do you sell controlled or hazardous substances?
No. We do not supply DEA-controlled substances, radiological materials or select agents. Regulated non-controlled items are shipped under 49 CFR packaging and labeling rules.
Are your products suitable for clinical diagnostics?
Products are supplied for laboratory and research use. We do not supply in-vitro diagnostic products intended for patient decision-making.
Returns & support
What is your return window?
Thirty days from delivery for unopened, non-sterile, non-custom stock items in resalable condition, with an RMA number issued in advance. Full detail is on our Shipping & Returns page.
Who do I contact about an existing order?
Your named account specialist, or the main line at (614) 671-3008. Order-status questions are answered the same business day.
Do you provide technical advice on product selection?
We provide practical guidance based on manufacturer specifications and our own experience. We do not provide method validation or regulatory consulting.
How do I make a complaint?
Email manager@vpscientific.com with the order number and detail. Complaints are logged in our non-conformance system, acknowledged within one business day and closed with a written response.
Still unanswered? Call (614) 671-3008 Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM to 6:00 PM ET, or email manager@vpscientific.com.