ISPM 15 Compliance for Export Boxes, Crates, and Lumber

What is ISPM 15?

ISPM 15 stands for International Standards for Phytosanitary Measures No. 15. It is a global standard developed by the International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC) to address the spread of pests and diseases through international trade, specifically in wooden packaging materials.

Why is ISPM 15 important?

ISPM 15 aims to prevent the spread of pests and diseases that can be transported through wooden packaging materials. These pests and diseases can harm ecosystems, agriculture, and forestry in importing countries, leading to significant economic and environmental consequences.

What does ISPM 15 require?

ISPM 15 requires wooden packaging materials, such as boxes, crates, and lumber, to undergo a specific treatment known as heat treatment (HT) or fumigation with methyl bromide (MB). Heat treatment is the most common, cost effective, and safest method used for ISPM 15 compliance.

What is heat treatment (HT)?

Heat treatment involves heating the wooden packaging material to a core temperature of at least 56°C (132.8°F) for a minimum duration of 30 minutes (as specified by the ISPM 15 standards). This process effectively eliminates most pests present in the wood.

How can I ensure ISPM 15 compliance for my export boxes, crates, and lumber?

To ensure ISPM 15 compliance for your wooden packaging materials, including export boxes, crates, and lumber, you should:

• First and best thing to do is work with a certified export packaging company. These are professionals that can help you feel confident every step of the way. Feel free to contact us if you have any questions about your export packaging.
• Export Stamp: Wood that has been heat treated will have an “HT” stamp on it, but this doesn’t mean it’s export compliant. For Export certification, it must go one step further. Export certified packaging also indicates “IPPC” compliance adjacent to a stalk of wheat.
• Exemption: Cardboard, Plywood, Particle Board, and Oriented Strand Board (OSB) are considered exempt from ISPM 15, but unless the entire package is produced from these materials, you will still need an export certification stamp on the package.

What are the consequences of non-compliance with ISPM 15?

Failure to comply with ISPM 15 regulations can result in significant consequences, including:

• Rejection of shipments at the port of entry.
• Quarantine or destruction of non-compliant wooden packaging materials.
• Legal penalties and fines.
• Damage to reputation and business relationships.

Ensuring ISPM 15 compliance for export boxes, crates, and lumber is essential for international trade, safeguarding against the spread of pests and diseases while facilitating smooth customs clearance and delivery of goods.