ISPM-15 Heat Treatment
ISPM-15 Fumigation
ISPM-15 (International Standards for Phytosanitary Measures No. 15) is a standard for treating wooden packaging materials, like pallets and crates, to prevent pest spread. It heats wood to 56°C (132.8°F) for at least 30 minutes, eliminating insects and pathogens. Treated wood receives an ISPM-15 mark, indicating compliance with shipping regulations. This treatment is required for exporting wood products to many countries
ISPM-15 fumigation is a treatment for disinfecting wooden packaging materials, like pallets and crates, to prevent pest spread across borders. Instead of heat, it uses methyl bromide gas to penetrate the wood and eliminate insects and pathogens. The wood is placed in a sealed area, exposed to the gas for a set time, then marked with the ISPM-15 stamp, certifying it meets international phytosanitary standards for safe transport
Difference between Heat Treatment and Fumigation
Our Heat Treatment Process
Our Fumigation Process
Frequently Asked Questions
What is ISPM-15, and why is it important?
ISPM-15 (International Standards for Phytosanitary Measures No. 15) is a regulation developed by the International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC) to prevent the spread of pests in international shipping. It requires that wooden packaging materials, such as pallets and crates, undergo treatment to eliminate any pests that could be harmful to ecosystems.
Do ISPM-15 requirements apply to all wooden packaging materials?
ISPM-15 standards apply to solid wood packaging materials used in international shipping, including pallets, crates, and dunnage. Processed wood materials like plywood, particleboard, oriented strand board and laminated veneer lumber (LVL) are typically exempt from ISPM-15 regulations.
If I am going to export the wooden pallets/boxes to “XXX” country, which type of treatment should we use?
The type of treatment need to confirm with your client/forwarder. For example, there are certain situations which the country can accept heat treatment but the client requires fumigation.
Which type of treatment is cheaper?
Heat Treatment will be cheaper than Fumigation.
Why would someone choose fumigation over heat treatment?
Some countries may require fumigation as a specific method of treatment, and fumigation is sometimes preferred when handling larger quantities of wood, or in cases where heat treatment may not be feasible.
How long does the certificate lasts?
The heat treatment’s cert does not has an expiry date; whereas the fumigation’s cert has a validity of 15 days, starting from the day of fumigation.
Can heat treatment and fumigation be combined?
In some cases, both treatments may be applied to wooden packaging, especially if there are stringent requirements from specific countries. However, either heat treatment or fumigation generally suffices for ISPM-15 compliance.
Will the heat-treated pallet/box be completely free of pests after the heat treatment?
Yes, heat-treated pallets and boxes will be free of pests after treatment. However, it’s important to take care of them by storing them under shelter. If you find any pests in your other pallets or boxes, please ensure to place the heat-treated pallet or box at least 5 meters away from the infected items to prevent the spread of pests.
How can I confirm that my packaging materials are heat-treated?
After heat treatment, each item is stamped with the ISPM-15 mark, which includes a specific code that indicates heat treatment compliance. This stamp certifies that the wood meets ISPM-15 standards.
Is heat-treated wood reusable, or does it need to be treated before each shipment?
Once treated and marked with the ISPM-15 stamp, wood does not need to be re-treated for subsequent shipments. However, it must remain free of modifications and visible damage, as repairs or alterations could require additional treatment.
What happens if my wooden packaging does not comply with ISPM-15?
Non-compliant wood packaging may be refused entry, destroyed, or treated at the port of entry. To avoid delays and added costs, it’s crucial to ensure compliance before shipping.
Do you only provide treatment for pallets? Can I send our pallets to you for treatment, or do you offer a collection service?
Yes! We have many customers who send their pallets to us, or we can collect them for treatment, allowing them to use them again. This also helps us save the environment by reducing the need to produce more pallets. We have our own transportation service, so we can efficiently collect and deliver the pallets as well.
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