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What Is ISPM-15?
ISPM-15 (International Standards for Phytosanitary Measures No. 15) is a mandatory regulation for all wood packaging materials used in international trade. It requires that wood be treated to eliminate pests — specifically the pine wood nematode and other organisms that could damage ecosystems in the destination country.
The standard was developed by the International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC), a treaty organization under the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization. It applies to pallets, crates, dunnage, and any other solid wood packaging used to support, contain, or carry cargo across international borders.
Non-compliant shipments risk rejection at customs, quarantine, destruction, or costly return shipping. In some countries, non-compliant wood packaging triggers mandatory fumigation at the port of entry — an expensive and time-consuming process that can delay your shipment by weeks. Our certified treatment ensures your pallets pass inspection every time.
Our Process
We use the heat treatment (HT) method specified by ISPM-15. This is a chemical-free process that uses controlled kiln heat to eliminate pests. Here is exactly what happens:
- Wood core heated to 56 degrees C (132.8 degrees F) minimum
- Temperature maintained for at least 30 continuous minutes
- Temperature monitored by multiple calibrated probes placed in the core of test pieces
- Full kiln-cycle documentation with time-temperature logs
- Treatment certificates issued for every batch
- IPPC/HT compliance stamp applied to each treated pallet
- Kiln capacity: 400+ pallets per cycle
- Post-treatment inspection to verify stamp placement and legibility
Service Details
We also treat crates, dunnage, and other wood packaging materials. If it is solid wood and it is crossing a border, we can treat and certify it.
Kiln Specifications
Our heat treatment facility is purpose-built for high-volume pallet processing with precise temperature control and comprehensive monitoring.
Countries Requiring ISPM-15
ISPM-15 is enforced by virtually every country that participates in international trade. Here are some of the major markets where compliance is strictly enforced and non-compliant shipments are routinely rejected or quarantined.
North America
- Canada
- Mexico
- United States (for imports)
US Customs and Border Protection actively inspects wood packaging at all ports of entry.
Europe
- All EU member states
- United Kingdom
- Switzerland
- Norway
EU regulations require ISPM-15 compliance for all incoming wood packaging without exception.
Asia-Pacific
- China
- Japan
- South Korea
- Australia
- New Zealand
- India
Australia and New Zealand have some of the strictest phytosanitary enforcement in the world.
Latin America
- Brazil
- Argentina
- Chile
- Colombia
- Peru
Brazilian customs (MAPA) has increased enforcement significantly in recent years.
Middle East & Africa
- UAE
- Saudi Arabia
- South Africa
- Israel
- Egypt
Gulf states enforce ISPM-15 as part of broader import compliance frameworks.
Other Key Markets
- Russia
- Turkey
- Indonesia
- Vietnam
- Philippines
Enforcement levels vary but all require compliant documentation for wood packaging.
This is not an exhaustive list. If you are shipping to any international destination, assume ISPM-15 compliance is required for all solid wood packaging.
Treatment Records & Documentation
Proper documentation is critical for ISPM-15 compliance. Customs authorities can — and do — request treatment records for any shipment containing wood packaging. We provide comprehensive documentation that satisfies the strictest inspection requirements.
Treatment Certificate
An official certificate issued for each treatment batch. Includes date of treatment, kiln identification, treatment parameters (temperature and duration achieved), quantity treated, and our IPPC-registered facility code. This document is your primary proof of compliance.
Time-Temperature Logs
Digital logs from our kiln monitoring system showing the complete heating cycle. These logs prove that the required core temperature of 56 degrees C was reached and maintained for the full 30-minute minimum. Available in PDF format for your records.
IPPC/HT Stamp
Every treated pallet receives the internationally recognized IPPC stamp, which includes the country code (US), our registered producer number, the treatment code (HT for heat treatment), and the IPPC wheat sheaf symbol. This stamp is what customs inspectors look for.
Record Retention
We maintain treatment records for a minimum of three years, as required by regulatory standards. If you need copies of past treatment records — for an audit, a customs inquiry, or a customer request — we can retrieve them promptly.
Frequently Asked Questions
We answer these questions regularly. If yours is not covered here, contact us and we will give you a straight answer.
Does heat treatment affect the structural integrity of the pallet?
No. ISPM-15 temperatures are below levels that damage pallet strength and may also reduce moisture-related mold risk.
What is the difference between heat treatment (HT) and methyl bromide (MB) fumigation?
Heat treatment uses controlled kiln heat without chemicals, while MB uses fumigation gas and is restricted in many markets.
Can I reuse a heat-treated pallet for multiple international shipments?
Yes, if the IPPC mark is legible and the pallet has not been altered with untreated replacement wood.
Do I need heat treatment for pallets shipping within the United States?
Generally no. ISPM-15 applies to international shipments, though some private buyers may still require HT pallets.
How far in advance should I schedule heat treatment?
For standard turnaround, schedule about a week ahead. Rush orders are often possible with shorter notice.
Can you treat my existing pallets, or do I need to buy new ones from you?
We can treat your existing pallets or provide treated pallets from inventory, including combined supply and treatment service.
What happens if my shipment is rejected at customs for non-compliant packaging?
You may face quarantine, fumigation, destruction, or return costs. Proper treatment and documentation help avoid this risk.
Do you treat materials other than pallets?
Yes. We also treat crates, dunnage, and other solid wood packaging materials covered by ISPM-15.
A Note on Compliance
ISPM-15 compliance is not optional for international shipments. It is a legal requirement enforced by customs authorities worldwide. Non-compliance exposes your business to shipment delays, additional costs, and potential damage to your reputation with international customers.
As a certified treatment provider with an IPPC-registered facility, we take compliance seriously. Our treatment process, documentation, and stamp application all follow the exact specifications laid out in the ISPM-15 standard. When you receive pallets treated at our facility, you can be confident they will pass inspection at any port in the world.
If you are new to international shipping and have questions about what wood packaging requirements apply to your specific situation, we are happy to walk you through it. Compliance is straightforward when you work with a certified provider.
Shipping Internationally?
Do not risk customs delays. Get your pallets heat-treated and certified before your shipment. Fast turnaround, full documentation, competitive pricing.
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