ISPM 15 (Wood Packaging Standard)

TL;DR: ISPM 15 is the international rule for wood packaging in shipping. Solid wood crates and pallets must be treated to kill pests and carry an official mark, or they may be refused at import.

The standard is set under the International Plant Protection Convention and adopted by most trading countries. It covers wood packaging material such as pallets, crates, skids, and dunnage made from raw or solid wood. The goal is to stop insects and plant diseases from spreading across borders.

The most common treatment is heat treatment, shown on the stamp as HT. Some countries also accept other approved methods. The mark includes the IPPC logo, a country code, a producer or treatment facility number, and the treatment code. It must be clearly visible, usually on two opposite sides of the pallet or crate.

Processed wood materials, such as plywood, particle board, and oriented strand board, are generally exempt because the manufacturing process removes the pest risk. Plastic and metal pallets are also outside the standard.

This matters for heavy, fragile goods like mosaic tile sheets, which are often packed in cartons on wooden pallets or in wooden crates. If the wood is not compliant, customs may order the packaging to be treated, repacked, or sent back at the importer’s cost. Ask your supplier to confirm that pallets and crates are ISPM 15 marked, or made of exempt plywood, and request a photo of the stamp before loading. See also Palletizing and Crating.