ISPM 15 Guide
Understanding ISPM 15 Compliance for Export Packaging
International shipping regulations require timber packaging materials to comply with strict phytosanitary standards in order to prevent the spread of insects, pests, and plant diseases between countries.
ISPM 15 is the globally recognized standard governing heat-treated timber packaging used in export shipping.
At WeCrate, we manufacture export packaging solutions using ISPM 15 compliant timber for international road, sea, and airfreight applications.
🌍 What Is ISPM 15?
International Standards for Phytosanitary Measures No. 15
The standard was developed by the:
International Plant Protection Convention
It regulates the treatment of solid wood packaging material used in international trade.
The purpose of ISPM 15 is to reduce the international spread of:
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wood-boring insects
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timber pests
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fungal contamination
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invasive species
Many countries legally require ISPM 15 compliant timber packaging before cargo may enter their borders.
Why ISPM 15 Matters
Non-compliant timber packaging can result in:
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customs delays
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rejected shipments
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cargo quarantine
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repacking costs
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fumigation orders
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shipment destruction in severe cases
Using compliant export packaging helps ensure smoother international shipping and customs clearance.
🌍 What Is Heat Treatment?
Heat treatment is the most widely accepted ISPM 15 treatment method.
The timber is heated to a core temperature of:
56°C minimum for at least 30 minutes
This process eliminates pests and insect larvae that may exist within the wood.
ISPM 15 Marking
Compliant timber packaging is marked with an official ISPM 15 stamp.
A typical mark includes:
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country code
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producer or treatment provider code
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treatment type
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IPPC symbol
Example: ZA-123 HT
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ZA = South Africa
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123 = registered treatment provider
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HT = Heat Treated
What Packaging Requires ISPM 15 Compliance?
ISPM 15 generally applies to:
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wooden crates
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timber skids
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pallets
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timber bracing
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dunnage
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wooden supports
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export cases
It typically applies to solid wood materials thicker than 6mm.
What Packaging Is Usually Exempt?
The following materials are generally exempt from ISPM 15 requirements:
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plywood
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OSB board
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MDF
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particle board
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engineered wood products
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veneer-based materials
These products are considered manufactured materials with reduced pest risk.
