What Is an ISPM 15 Heat-Treated Pallet and When Do You Need One?

An ISPM 15 pallet is a wood pallet that has been treated, usually by heat, to kill pests and then stamped with an official mark showing it meets the international standard. You generally need ISPM 15 compliant pallets, crates and wood dunnage any time solid wood packaging crosses an international border. Shipments with non-compliant wood can be held, treated or sent back at the shipper's expense.

What does ISPM 15 stand for?

ISPM 15 is International Standards for Phytosanitary Measures No. 15. It is the global standard that regulates wood packaging material in international trade to prevent the spread of insects and plant disease.

What does heat treatment involve?

Heat-treated wood is brought to a set core temperature for a set amount of time. After treatment, the pallet or crate receives the ISPM 15 mark, which identifies the treatment method and the certified facility.

When do I need an ISPM 15 pallet?

• Exporting products on wood pallets or skids.

• Shipping machinery or parts in wood crates overseas.

• Using wood blocking, bracing or dunnage in an export container.

• When your customer or freight forwarder requires it.

Domestic shipments generally do not require ISPM 15, though some customers ask for heat-treated pallets as a standard.

What other pallet types should I consider?

• New custom pallets in softwood or hardwood built to your load and footprint.

• Block pallets with four-way entry for heavy loads and automated handling.

• Refurbished pallets as a lower cost, sustainable option.

• Custom crates for large, heavy or high-value export cargo.

Where can I get ISPM 15 pallets in Michigan?

Allpacks supplies new, refurbished, block and ISPM 15 heat-treated pallets and custom export crates from Flint, Michigan, and offers scrap pallet removal. See pallets, custom crates or request a quote.

Frequently asked questions

What is an ISPM 15 pallet?

An ISPM 15 pallet is a wood pallet treated, usually by heat, to eliminate pests and stamped with the official ISPM 15 mark for use in international shipping.

Do domestic shipments need ISPM 15 pallets?

Domestic shipments generally do not require ISPM 15 pallets, though some customers request heat-treated pallets as a standard.

Do wood crates need to be ISPM 15 compliant?

Yes. Solid wood crates, skids and dunnage used in international shipments generally need to meet ISPM 15 and carry the mark.