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Worldwide, pallets and wooden packaging are widely used for transportation. Since wood is a natural material, it is subject to specific regulations. But how can you be sure your wooden packaging meets international shipping requirements? That’s where the ISPM 15 requirements come in. The explanation below outlines exactly what ISPM 15 (International Phytosanitary Measure) involves.
ISPM 15 is the international standard that ensures the safe use of wooden packaging in global transport. To prevent the spread of harmful organisms, many countries require wood to be Heat Treated (HT).
By using ISPM 15-certified wooden packaging or dunnage from a registered supplier, you can be confident that your shipments comply with international transport regulations. This helps prevent the unintentional spread of pests and reduces the risk of delays or refusals at border controls.
Dunnage and wooden packaging are heat-treated in special ovens in accordance with ISPM 15 regulations. During this treatment, the wood is heated until its core reaches a minimum temperature of 56 °C for at least 30 minutes. This eliminates all living pests, ensuring no harmful organisms can survive in the material. Most of Foresco’s production sites are equipped with ovens to dry and treat wood in full compliance with ISPM 15.
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Treated pallets or wooden crates are marked with the official IPPC stamp. This mark indicates the country of origin and the registered supplier.
It includes:
Good to know: since 2010, HT has been the standard treatment. Before that, the chemical methyl bromide (MB) was commonly used, but it is now banned. Foresco strictly enforces compliance with current regulations.
A sustainable and innovative partner. All official producers of wooden packaging are registered with the Netherlands’ Foundation for Marking Wooden Packaging (SMHV). Given the strict regulations, most suppliers follow the same procedures.
Foresco stands out through its strong focus on sustainability. We are committed to a green future and have been investing in waste reduction for over 30 years. Our wooden products come from sustainably managed forests, and many of our facilities generate their own renewable energy.
More and more countries require ISPM 15-compliant wooden packaging upon import. Within the European Union, ISPM 15 is not mandatory, but it often is outside the EU. A full overview of the applicable rules per country can be found on the website of the Stichting Markering Houten Verpakkingen (SMHV). The site also features a short animation that explains the importance of ISPM 15.
In recent years, the EU has taken significant steps to require companies to be more transparent about their impact on the environment, society, and governance (ESG – Environmental, Social, and Governance). The most recent legislation, approved in 2024, is the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD
The European Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), also known as Regulation (EU) 2023/1115 or the European regulation on deforestation-free products, aims to combat deforestation and forest degradation.
The Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation, or PPWR for short, is the new European regulation on packaging and packaging waste. The PPWR entered into force on 11 February 2025. From 12 August 2026 most provisions will apply. Other obligations will be phased in over the following years. The Regulation applies to all packaging placed on the European market, regardless of the material used. The PPWR includes rules on recyclability, reuse, material use, packaging minimisation, substances in packaging, information provision and labelling.
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