Export Ready

HEAT TREATMENT

Shipping overseas? Request ISPM 15 heat-treated pallets from partner suppliers in the Seattle area.

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What Is ISPM 15?

ISPM 15 is the international standard for wood packaging used in trade. Most countries require pallets, crates and dunnage made of solid wood to be treated and marked before they cross the border. Treated pallets are commonly labelled "HT" (heat treated).

Requirements change, so check current regulations for your destination country before you ship.

How Heat Treatment Works

Treatment

Wood is heated until its core reaches at least 56 °C and is held there for at least 30 continuous minutes.

Marking

Treated material is stamped with the IPPC mark, a country code, the producer’s registration number and the treatment code.

Who treats it

Treatment and marking are done by facilities registered under an approved program. Partner suppliers source or treat pallets through such facilities.

Exempt materials

Processed wood such as plywood, OSB and particle board is generally exempt. Plastic and metal pallets are not wood packaging.

Reading the HT Stamp

  • •IPPC symbol: shows the wood was treated under the international standard.
  • •Country code: the two-letter code of the country where it was treated, such as US.
  • •Producer number: identifies the registered treatment facility or producer.
  • •Treatment code: HT for heat treatment.

Requesting Heat-Treated Pallets

Use the quote form to tell us the size, quantity and destination. Partner suppliers in our network reply with availability and pricing. Pricing is by quote only.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is ISPM 15?

ISPM 15 is an international phytosanitary standard for wood packaging material, such as pallets and crates, used in international trade. It aims to stop wood pests from spreading between countries.

What does heat treatment involve?

Under ISPM 15, heat-treated wood must reach a minimum core temperature of 56 °C for at least 30 continuous minutes.

How can I tell if a pallet is ISPM 15 compliant?

Compliant pallets carry the IPPC mark, which includes a country code, a producer or facility number, and a treatment code such as HT.

Do domestic shipments need heat-treated pallets?

Usually not, but some customers require them. Check current regulations and your customer’s requirements for each destination.