MCT Box

Quick Answer: The MCT Box is a storage box for microcentrifuge tubes (MCTs), holding them in a grid of positions under a lid so that samples can be kept in refrigerators and freezers and located by position. An MCT box usually takes the standard 1.5 ml and 2.0 ml tubes.

What an MCT Box Is For

MCT is shorthand for microcentrifuge tube, the 1.5 ml or 2.0 ml snap-cap tube used across molecular biology and biochemistry. Where an MCT Rack holds tubes open and within reach during the working day, an MCT box is for what comes afterwards: tubes are closed, placed in numbered positions and moved into cold storage, where the lid protects the caps and keeps frost off the tops.

Microtube freezer boxes are commonly polypropylene, with a lid that is either hinged or separate and positions marked by letters along one side and numbers along the other. Some lids carry a matching grid printed on top, so the map can be read before opening. The grid size, lid design and material of this box are not stated in its title. The range also lists a Box for Micro Centrifuge Tubes; the two names describe the same kind of item, so compare grid, lid and material when choosing between them.

Good freezer practice starts with the box. Give every box a unique number, write owner and date on the lid and front, and keep a map of each position so that a single aliquot can be taken out and the box returned before the other samples warm. Keeping one sample type or project per box also makes it simple to discard a finished project in one step.

Applications

• Freezer storage of DNA, RNA and protein aliquots
• Keeping restriction enzymes, primers and PCR reagents in labelled positions
• Archiving the samples from a completed practical or project together
• Moving closed tubes between labs or buildings without them tipping over

Care & Handling

• Close each tube cap fully before placing it in the box
• Keep a written grid map for every box and update it whenever tubes are removed
• Clean spills promptly with detergent, decontaminating first if biological material leaked
• Handle frozen plastic boxes carefully, as they are more brittle when cold

Specifications

Why Choose LabEquip

Microtube storage boxes are bought by molecular biology, genetics and biotechnology labs, and by colleges where each student’s samples must stay separate and traceable. LabEquip supplies them with racks and tubes in Biology Lab Products; ask about grid size and lid type through our contact page.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does MCT stand for?

MCT stands for microcentrifuge tube, the small conical tube, usually 1.5 ml or 2.0 ml, that fits a microcentrifuge rotor. An MCT box is a storage box sized for these tubes.

How does a storage box differ from an MCT rack?

A rack holds open tubes at the bench during work and usually has no lid. A box has a lid and a fixed grid for storing closed tubes in the fridge or freezer.

Will 0.5 ml tubes fit this box?

They usually sit loose in positions sized for 1.5 ml and 2.0 ml tubes. Use a box or insert designed for 0.5 ml tubes, or stand each small tube inside a larger one if only a few need storing.

Can the box be used at −80 °C?

Many polypropylene tube boxes are used at −80 °C. Check the box’s temperature rating, and avoid knocking frozen boxes, because cold plastic cracks more easily.

How should the box be labelled?

Label both the lid and a side face with a box number, owner and date using freezer-grade labels. Keep a matching position map in a notebook or shared spreadsheet.

Can the box be autoclaved?

If it is made of polypropylene it can generally be autoclaved at 121 °C with the lid off. Check the material and rating first, since polystyrene or polycarbonate boxes may deform or weaken.

Last Updated: September 2026