Wood packaging is regularly used to transport many goods between different territories. However, wood pallets and materials intended for export must comply with the requirements of the ISPM 15.

Developed by the United Nations’ International Plant Protection Convention, these export standards mainly deal with the treatment of wood.

What is ISPM 15?

ISPM 15 (or International Standards for Phytosanitary Measures No. 15) is a global guideline developed by the International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC) to prevent the spread of pests and diseases through international trade. This standard specifically targets wood packaging materials like wooden pallets, wooden cargo crates, and dunnage used in shipping goods across borders. The core of ISPM 15 is the requirement for these wood materials to be treated—either through heat treatment or fumigation with methyl bromide—and then marked with a compliance stamp.

ISPM 15 purpose and materials covered

The ISPM 15 process is intended to eliminate pests that could harm plants and ecosystems in importing countries. The standard applies to both hardwood and softwood packaging materials and includes specific exemptions for products made from processed wood, such as plywood, particle board, and fiberboard, which are considered low risk for pest transmission.

Compliance with these international shipping crates requirements is mandatory for businesses involved in overseas trade, as non-compliant wood packaging can lead to shipment rejections, delays, and additional costs due to treatment or disposal requirements at the destination country.

ISPM 15 standard requirements and types of treatment

Wood pallets and shipping crates used in global trade must be debarked and then subjected to approved treatments—either heat treatment or fumigation with methyl bromide—to meet ISPM 15 regulations. The debarking process is essential to prevent re-infestation of insects while the lumber is awaiting treatment.

Heat treatment (HT) is the most widely accepted method, where the wood must be heated until its core temperature reaches at least 56°C (133°F) for a minimum of 30 minutes. This process ensures that any pests within the wood are eliminated. Facilities that provide this treatment must be approved by the National Plant Protection Organization (NPPO) or an officially authorized organization, and they must make sure that the ISPM 15 mark is only applied to wood packaging material that has been properly treated.

The mark of compliance, commonly known as the “wheat stamp,” includes the IPPC logo, the country code, the producer’s unique number, and the treatment code (HT for heat treatment or MB for methyl bromide fumigation). This mark must be clearly visible on the wood packaging and not easily removable.

For wood packaging to remain compliant, it must not be altered post-treatment. If repaired or remanufactured, the wood packaging material must be re-treated and the mark applied again. As mentioned earlier, certain wood products, such as plywood, particle board, and veneer, are exempt from these requirements due to the manufacturing process which eliminates the risk of pest infestation.

What are heat treated wooden pallets?

Heat treated wooden pallets are pallets that have been treated to comply with the ISPM 15 regulatory framework, which mandates treating wood with extreme temperatures to eliminate pests and diseases before international transportation. Specifically, these pallets undergo a thermal process reaching an internal temperature of 56°C for at least 30 consecutive minutes, ensuring complete penetration throughout the wood’s structure. This procedure helps maintain ecological stability and supports global commerce.

Creopack, your supplier of ISPM 15 compliant wooden packaging

Armed with the knowledge of ISPM 15 export standards, you’re now aware of the critical role they play in shaping your crate packaging designs for global markets.

By leveraging Creopack’s expertise in custom crating, you gain access to premium wooden crates, boxes, and pallets meticulously designed to surpass stringent ISPM 15 regulations. With Creopack’s commitment to excellence, your shipments will pass international boundaries with confidence, knowing that every piece of woodwork bears the seal of approval from regulatory bodies around the world.

Experience seamless operations and peace of mind with Creopack—your trusted partner in international shipping success. Contact us to request a free quotation.