When it comes to exporting or importing goods in wood packaging, there is one international regulation that cannot be ignored: ISPM 15 (International Standard for Phytosanitary Measures No. 15). This regulation, implemented by more than 180 countries, is key to ensuring that packaging does not carry pests that could endanger the ecosystems of the destination country.
For companies operating globally, not knowing or failing to comply with this standard can result in logistical delays, penalties or even the return of cargo. Therefore, understanding what ISPM 15 requires and how it affects logistics operations is not only a matter of compliance, but also of efficiency and competitiveness.
In this article we explain what ISPM 15 is, to whom it applies, which countries require it and how to manage it correctly in your logistics operations.
What is ISPM 15 and why is it key to international trade?
The ISPM 15 is an international standard adopted by the International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC), under the FAO, whose main objective is to prevent the spread of pests and harmful organisms through international trade in commodities.
This regulation establishes the requirements to be met by wood packaging used in international transport, such as pallets, crates, boxes or dunnage.
ISPM 15 requires that these materials be properly treated and marked to eliminate quarantine pests and specific harmful organisms that may pose a risk to plant health in the importing country.
This standard has become a global standard due to its direct impact on:
🌱 Protection of local ecosystems from accidentally transported invasive species.
🚫 The reduction of phytosanitary barriers between countries through a common certification system.
📉 Minimization of logistical disruptions caused by inspections, detentions or customs returns.
🔍 Traceability and control of packaging throughout the international supply chain.
In a context where logistics efficiency and regulatory compliance are key factors in maintaining global competitiveness, ISPM 15 is not only a technical obligation, but also a guarantee of safety, reliability and professionalism in logistics operations.
Which packages must comply with ISPM 15?
ISPM 15 applies exclusively to unprocessed solid wood packaging material used in the international transport of goods. The objective is to prevent this wood from acting as a vehicle for the introduction of plant pests and diseases into destination countries.
Packagings subject to this regulation must undergo approved treatments, such as heat treatment (HT) at 56 °C for 30 minutes on the wood core, methyl bromide (MB) fumigation or other authorized alternative methods, and bear the official marking guaranteeing their conformity.
The following are the types of packaging that are required to comply with ISPM 15:
🧱 Pallets and loading platforms made of natural wood.
📦 Boxes, crates and crates used to contain or protect goods during transport.
🔩 Dunnage and securing wedges that are part of the cargo securing system.
🏗️Frames and other non-manufactured wood supports are included in the shipment.
Conversely, there are certain materials and components that are not covered by ISPM 15, such as:
✅ Packaging made of processed wood (chipboard, plywood, OSB), as they have been subjected to pressure and high temperatures during manufacture.
✅ Thin wood (less than 6 mm thick), which is considered a low phytosanitary risk.
✅ Completely wood-free packaging, such as cardboard, plastic or metal.
It is important to bear in mind that the simple fact of using wood is not what obliges to comply with the regulations, but the use of untreated natural wood, which can be a carrier of living organisms if it is not subjected to the required treatments.
It is also important to note that methyl bromide (MB) fumigation is being phased out in many countries due to its environmental impact under the Montreal Protocol. Therefore, heat treatment (HT) and alternative methods, such as dielectric heating or the use of fluoride sulfide in some countries, are gaining preference for ISPM 15 compliance.
Ultimately, any exporter or importer using unprocessed wood packaging material in international shipments must ensure compliance with ISPM 15 to avoid inspections, detentions or rejections at the border.
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Countries requiring ISPM 15 for imports
ISPM 15 is a widely adopted standard in international trade.
Currently, more than 180 countries, as members of the IPPC, have adopted ISPM 15 as a requirement for the entry of goods transported in unprocessed wood packaging material, although implementation may vary according to bilateral agreements or specific national regulations.
Although it is a global regulation, the way in which it is applied may vary slightly from country to country, especially with regard to inspections, exceptions and corrective measures in the event of non-compliance.
Main countries that require ISPM 15:
United States and Canada: They have strict border controls for imports from third countries, and failure to mark may result in immediate return of the shipment. However, wood packaging material originating in their respective territories is exempt from ISPM 15 under a bilateral agreement.
Australia and New Zealand: Require detailed documentation and in some cases complementary treatments. They are particularly demanding in terms of biosafety.
China: Rigorously enforces regulations and conducts frequent physical inspections.
Brazil and other Latin American countries: Require compliance, although inspection levels vary from country to country.
European Union: Mandates compliance with ISPM 15 for imports from third countries, although certain equivalent treatments are allowed if properly documented.
In addition, countries in Africa, the Middle East, Central Asia and Southeast Asia have also adopted the standard as part of their phytosanitary policies.
What can happen if it is not fulfilled?
🚫 Customs detention of the merchandise.
🔁 Re-export or destruction of contaminated packaging.
💸 Additional costs for storage, handling and delays.
⚠️ Damage to business reputation with international partners or customers.
Therefore, it is essential for any company that carries out international logistics operations to verify the specific requirements of the destination country before each shipment, especially with regard to the use of wood.
To have a logistics operator that correctly manages these aspects, such as Across Logistics, is a guarantee of regulatory compliance and operational fluidity.
Logistics impact: how ISPM 15 influences transportation operations
ISPM 15 compliance is not just a regulatory issue, but an operational issue that directly affects the planning, execution and success of international shipments. For logistics teams, understanding this standard and applying it correctly is key to avoiding incidents, cost overruns and delays.
At what points in the logistics process does ISPM 15 impact?
📦 Selection of packaging: From the outset, it is necessary to ensure that pallets, crates or wooden supports are treated and marked in accordance with regulations.
🚛 Loading and stowage: Visual inspection of the packaging should be part of the pre-shipment checks. If untreated wood is detected, the cargo may be rejected.
📄 Documentation and certificates: Some countries require additional proof, such as the phytosanitary treatment certificate or the detail in the customs documentation.
🛃 Customs clearance: Destination authorities may inspect the packaging. If it does not comply with ISPM 15, they may order the material to be re-exported or destroyed.
⏱️ Transit and delivery times: Any incidence related to packaging can affect lead time and generate interruptions in the supply chain.
Logistical consequences of non-compliance
❌ Loss of time and increased costs due to goods stoppage.
🔁 Need to repack, reship or return cargo.
📉 Damage to the relationship with international customers and partners.
🛑 Possible blocking of future operations with certain destinations if non-compliance is repeated.
For companies that regularly operate in international markets, preventive management of ISPM 15 requirements should be part of their standard logistics protocols.
Collaboration with suppliers and operators who control these aspects makes the difference between a smooth operation and a logistical problem with commercial impact.
Across Logistics, your international logistics partner
At Across Logistics we work every day to become the strategic partner that companies operating in international markets need. We know that, in a globalized environment, logistics is not limited to transportation, but also involves complying with regulations, optimizing times, reducing risks and ensuring the continuous flow of goods.
For this reason, we offer a comprehensive service that goes beyond the physical movement of cargo. We accompany our customers in all phases of the logistics process, providing:
📄 Advice on international regulations, such as ISPM 15, customs regulations, sanitary certificates or commercial documentation.
🚛 Complete operational management in maritime, air and land transportation, with global coverage.
🧾 Specialized customs services to ensure smooth entry and exit of goods at any destination.
🏢 Warehousing and distribution solutions, adapted to the needs of each customer.
🤝 An expert and close team that understands the logistical challenges of each sector and offers agile and personalized responses.
Having a logistics operator that masters international regulations is key to avoiding delays, penalties or unforeseen costs. At Across Logistics, we guarantee compliance, efficiency and peace of mind in every shipment, wherever you are.
Frequently Asked Questions about ISPM 15
Despite its widespread adoption, ISPM 15 continues to raise questions among exporters, logistics operators and customs officials. Below, we answer some of the most frequently asked questions about this regulation:
What happens if a package does not bear the ISPM 15 seal?
⚠️ If the packaging is not properly marked, it is considered non-conforming, even if it has been treated. This may result in inspections, stoppage of the shipment, or even its return or destruction at destination.
Can I reuse packaging that already complies with ISPM 15?
♻️ Yes, as long as the packaging is in good condition and keeps the official mark visible and intact. If the marking is damaged or incomplete, it is recommended not to reuse it.
Does ISPM 15 have an expiration date?
📅 There is no “shelf life” as such, but the packaging must be maintained in a condition that ensures its physical integrity and safe use. If it deteriorates or is modified, it may lose its validity.
What if I use mixed packaging with treated and untreated wood parts?
🚫 All wood components must comply with the standards. If any part is not treated and marked, the assembly is considered non-compliant.
Does ISPM 15 apply to wood packaging used in shipments within the EU?
It is not mandatory within the European Union, although its use is common. However, compliance with the regulations is required for exports to third countries.
Is it necessary to attach an ISPM 15 treatment certificate?
📄 In general, no. The marking on the packaging is usually sufficient. However, some countries may require additional documentation, especially for high phytosanitary risk goods.
