This article explains how to select laboratories across different ClearStream testing cycles, whether you can change laboratories, and whether you can run two tests at the same time.

01/ Introduction

You can use a different laboratory for each testing cycle. The connection between you and your chosen laboratory (called a testing request or handshake) is specific to a single cycle. When that cycle ends, and you start a new one, you select a laboratory again — and you can choose the same one or a different one.

You cannot, however, run two testing cycles at the same time, or send a testing request to more than one laboratory simultaneously within a single cycle.

Each ClearStream testing cycle follows a defined sequence. In Step 3, you select a laboratory and send a formal testing request. This request applies only to that cycle and does not commit you to that laboratory for future cycles.

When you complete a cycle and start a new one, Step 3 becomes available again, and you select a laboratory anew. This process gives you full flexibility to work with the same laboratory each year or change based on availability, price, or brand requirements.

02/ Prerequisites

• You must have an active ClearStream subscription.
• Your previous testing cycle must be fully closed before starting a new one.

03/ Selecting a different laboratory for a new cycle

1. Open the ClearStream module once your current cycle is complete.
2. Start a new testing cycle by using Begin testing.
3. Complete Step 1 and Step 2 as normal.
4. On Step 3, search for and select the new laboratory you want to work with.
5. Submit the testing request. The new laboratory must receive your request and accept it before you can continue the cycle.

04/ Can I run two testing cycles simultaneously?

No. Only one testing cycle can be active at a time. You cannot start a second cycle while the first one is still in progress, and you cannot send a testing request to two laboratories simultaneously.

If your brand requires additional testing — for example, with a specific laboratory of their choosing — this must be managed outside the Gateway. Only one active ClearStream cycle per facility is supported at any given time.

05/ What counts as a new cycle?

A new cycle begins each time you start the ClearStream process from Step 1. Depending on your subscription and testing requirements, you may complete more than one cycle within a subscription year. Each cycle has its own laboratory request, test results, and ClearStream Report.

06/ Tips & Notes

Tip: If you want to switch laboratories for your next cycle, contact your new laboratory in advance to confirm their availability and pricing before starting the cycle. The formal request on the platform is binding — confirm the arrangement offline first.

Note: You cannot change laboratories mid-cycle. If a laboratory has already accepted your request, you must complete or restart the cycle before selecting a different one. See Restarting the ClearStream journey for details.