ISPM (International Standards for Phytosanitary Measures) are standards that regulate wood packaging materials used in international trade for the purpose of preventing the spread of pests and diseases. ISPM 15 standards have been adopted by many countries around the world, including the US, the UK, Australia, and New Zealand. In order for a company that deals with wood packaging & shipping to become ISPM 15 certified, they must pass an inspection from an accredited agency. Learn more about ISPM 15 regulations and why these standards were created for the packing and shipping industry by reading below!
What Is ISPM 15?
ISPM 15 mandates that wooden crates, pallets, and other packaging materials need to be heat-treated or fumigated with Methyl Bromide before they are used in international shipping. The primary method of heat treatment requires the material to reach a minimum temperature of 56ºC for at least thirty continuous minutes. After treatment, the packaging is given an ISPM15 mark, or certification, to prove compliance. ISPM 15 standards apply to both coniferous softwood and non-coniferous hardwood that are being used for packaging materials.
Why Was ISPM 15 Created?
In 2002, many countries engaged in international trade were growing concerned about the spread of diseases and pests from wood packaging. According to APHIS and USDA, 1.8 billion wooden pallets are in service in the United States on a daily basis. Longhorn beetles, bark beetles, and ambrosia beetles were some of the most common culprits of wooden packaging infestation. Overall, wood-boring pest infestations have been significantly reduced since the adoption of ISPM 15 regulations.
What Does ISPM 15 Apply To?
ISPM15 regulations apply to most wood packaging used for international shipping, including packing cases, boxes, crates, pallets, dunnage, spools, reels, and cable drums. However, there are some exceptions. Sawdust, wood shavings, entirely processed wood, wood packaging that is equal to or less than six millimeters thick, veneer peeler core, and heat-treated wine and spirit barrels are exempt from ISPM 15 regulations because they are considered low-risk.
Contact Extreme Packing Solutions!
Extreme Packing Solutions is ISPM 15 Certified and offers specialized crating and shipping services for all kinds of items, including antiques, fine art, electronics, computers, and a wide range of other fragile, high-value items throughout the Greater Boston area and beyond! To learn more, please give us a call at (978) 232-9190 or fill out the contact form on our website, and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible! If you would like a free quote on a crating and shipping service, please click here to fill out our estimate form!