ISPM-15 Heat Treatment Guide
If you export products internationally, you need ISPM-15 compliant pallets. This guide explains everything about heat treatment requirements, compliance, and how to ensure your shipments clear customs without delays.
What is ISPM-15?
ISPM-15 (International Standards for Phytosanitary Measures No. 15) is an international standard developed by the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) that regulates wood packaging materials (WPM) used in international trade.
The standard requires all solid wood packaging - including pallets, crates, dunnage, and blocking - to be treated to kill pests that could spread invasive species between countries. The two approved treatment methods are heat treatment (HT) and methyl bromide fumigation (MB), though HT is overwhelmingly preferred due to environmental concerns with MB.
The Heat Treatment Process
Temperature
Wood core temperature must reach 56C (132.8F) for a minimum of 30 continuous minutes.
Monitoring
Certified kilns use temperature probes to verify core temperature compliance throughout the treatment cycle.
Stamping
Treated pallets receive the official ISPM-15 stamp with facility ID, country code, and treatment type (HT).
Documentation
Treatment certificates and compliance records are maintained for audit and customs verification.
How to Verify Compliance
Look for the official ISPM-15 stamp on the pallet. It must include:
- The IPPC symbol (wheat sheaf logo)
- Two-letter country code (US for United States)
- Producer/treatment facility number
- Treatment code: HT (heat treatment) or MB (methyl bromide)
Consequences of Non-Compliance
- Shipment rejection at port of entry
- Mandatory quarantine and re-treatment at shipper's expense
- Fines from customs authorities
- Delays of days to weeks
- Potential loss of importing privileges
