This article summarizes Metrc (New York) Support Bulletin NY_IB_0006, which provides step-by-step direction for creating cannabis testing sample packages in Metrc and transferring those samples to a licensed testing facility. It covers two common workflows (bulk item category that is physically in final form, and final form “-each” items) plus the required transfer steps and key operational implications for keeping testing status, inventory, and compliance accurate.
Bulletin scope and why it matters for New York operators
New York cannabis operators using Metrc must create testing sample packages correctly so lab results can be reported against the appropriate product type and test batch, and so the source inventory and compliance status remain accurate.
Bulletin reference: NY_IB_0006 (Metrc Support Bulletin), distributed 1/14/2025, effective ongoing.
Who this affects: Any New York licensee creating lab samples in Metrc (including scenarios described as electronic sampling for distributors during beginning inventory).
Core compliance point: The Metrc “Submit for Testing” action creates a distinct testing sample package and places the source package into a testing workflow; mistakes (like duplicate samples or wrong item selection) can cause testing status and downstream packaging/retail compliance issues.
Workflow 1: Create a testing sample from a bulk item category that is physically in final form
This workflow is used when the product is still represented in Metrc as a bulk item category, but the physical product is already “ready-to-consume” final product form and only needs final packaging after testing.
Start from the source package in Metrc
In Metrc, navigate to the Packages area and open the Active tab.
Select the bulk source package you intend to test, then choose Submit for Testing.
Complete the “Submit for Testing” details
In the submission window, enter the required fields, including the new testing sample Package UID and the location where the physical sample will be stored in your facility.
Item selection (critical): For the Item field, select the Final Form – Each product category that the tested product will be packaged into after results are returned. This ties the sample to the correct final form compliance pathway.
If you need help locating the right item, use the item search (magnifying glass) and choose from your item list.
If one bulk lot will become multiple final form “-each” SKUs
If a single bulk source package will be packaged into multiple different final form items (for example, 1g each, 3.5g each, and 7g each), you must repackage/split the bulk inventory into separate packages allocated to each final form item before creating test samples from those packages.
This matters operationally because New York operators often align a specific test result and lab test batch with a particular final form product pathway; splitting first helps keep items, results, and future packaging actions consistent and defensible in Metrc.
Adjust quantities from source to sample
Use the quantity adjustment panel to deduct the required sample amount from the source package and add it into the newly created testing sample package.
Select the correct final form lab test batch
Select the appropriate final form lab test batch required for the product type you are submitting (the bulletin’s example references a final form raw plant material batch). Then complete the action by submitting for testing.
How to visually confirm the sample package: Metrc displays a testing sample package with a graduated cylinder icon, allowing staff to quickly identify which packages are samples versus sellable or production inventory.
Workflow 2: Create a testing sample for Final Form “-each” item categories
This workflow is used when the source package is already in a final form “-each” item category in Metrc (the bulletin also notes use for electronic sampling by distributors during beginning inventory).
Submit the “-each” package for testing
In Metrc, go to Packages > Active, select the final form (-each) source package, and choose Submit for Testing.
Use “Same Item” for item selection
In the submission window, enter the new testing sample Package UID and the sample location in your facility.
For the Item field, select the Same Item option so the testing sample remains tied to the same final form item as the source package.
Deduct the sample quantity and choose the test batch
Deduct the required amount from the source package and add it to the newly created testing sample package.
Select the correct final form lab test batch for the product category (the bulletin example references an infused preroll batch), then submit to finalize the sample creation.
How to confirm you created a sample: The testing sample package is marked with the graduated cylinder icon.
Testing status management: avoiding “TestingInProgress” issues
Metrc’s testing workflow can remain in a “TestingInProgress” status until all required test results are recorded for the package(s) associated with the submission.
Practical implication: If you accidentally create duplicate testing samples, your package status may not resolve as expected when the lab reports results. The bulletin advises discontinuing the duplicate testing sample so the testing status can display correctly once results are fully reported by the testing facility.
Day-to-day operations impact: Unresolved testing statuses can delay packaging, transfers, and retail fulfillment because many SOPs require a “passed” status before product can move to the next compliant step.
Creating a transfer for the testing sample to the lab
After the testing sample package is created, you must transfer the sample to a licensed testing facility for analysis.
Initiate the transfer from the sample package
In Metrc, go to Packages > Active, select the testing sample package (identified by the graduated cylinder icon), and choose New Transfer.
Enter required transfer details
In the transfer window, complete the fields required for a compliant shipment, including destination testing facility, planned route, transporter license number, transporter phone number, driver details, and vehicle details.
Transfer type: Select Transfer to Testing Facility. The selected sample package should already be populated in the transfer’s package section.
Register the transfer to generate the outgoing transfer record.
Where to confirm the registered transfer
To view the registered transfer, navigate to Transfers and open the Outgoing tab, where the newly created transfer will appear in the outgoing transfers grid.
Operational takeaways for New York Metrc compliance
Correct item mapping prevents downstream errors: Choosing the correct final form item (or “Same Item” for -each) helps ensure test results align to the intended product category, which supports compliant packaging, labeling, and inventory actions after results.
Split bulk before sampling when multiple SKUs are planned: If one bulk lot will feed multiple final form SKUs, splitting into separate packages first reduces reconciliation risk and helps keep testing documentation aligned to the product pathway you will actually sell.
Sample identification supports floor execution: Training staff to recognize the testing sample icon reduces accidental use of sample packages in production or shipping workflows.
Duplicate samples can block status resolution: Discontinuing mistakenly created duplicate samples helps avoid “stuck” testing statuses that can halt operations.
Metrc training and support resources referenced in the bulletin
Metrc Learn: The bulletin points operators to beginning inventory training content in Metrc Learn for additional guidance on submitting test samples.
Metrc Expert widget: The bulletin notes that Testing Tips and Best Practices are available inside Metrc through the Metrc Expert widget.
Metrc Support: For help, use the support portal at https://support.metrc.com/ (also accessible from within Metrc via the Support dropdown). The bulletin notes first-time portal access requires facility/state information and an email to set a password.
How labeling tools support Metrc testing-to-retail workflows
Once testing is complete and you move toward final packaging and retail readiness, labeling becomes a practical compliance bottleneck—especially when teams need to stay aligned with Metrc package details and Retail ID requirements.
DistruLabels: DistruLabels is a 100% free tool for creating compliant packaging and retail labels, helping teams generate labels that support Metrc Retail ID compliance and reduce rework when packages move from testing status to sellable inventory.
DistruERP: For larger operations that need end-to-end visibility beyond sampling and transfers, DistruERP is Distru’s comprehensive Cannabis ERP platform designed to support complete supply chain management across inventory, orders, fulfillment, and compliance workflows.
