IMPORTANT INFORMATION

ISPM15 – A global legislation that applies to all packaging containing wood material.

During 2002 a new International Standard for Phytosanitary Measures no. 15 (ISPM15) was developed by the U.N. to control the spread of diseases harboured in wooden packaging material.

ISPM15 is designed to prevent the harbouring and spread of pests including the Pinewood Nematode, Bursaphelenchus Xylophilus (see picture above), which can cause pine wilt disease, a major threat to pine forests. The new measure requires timber to be treated to exacting standards, ensuring that all infestations are removed.

ISPM15 is in the process of being implemented on a global scale, so UK exporters need to be aware of all the issues involved and plan their packaging solutions carefully to ensure uninterrupted supply of their products.

ISPM15 restrictions apply to any wood packaging material (WPM) that is used to ship product and will encompass timber pallets, shipping cases and also any internal dunnage. Any WPM will need to be marked with the appropriate ISPM15 stamp by an approved, registered packaging supplier and, if necessary, accompanied by appropriate certification.

What do Exporter’s Need To Do?

To ensure compliance with the new regulations, companies exporting to countries that implement ISPM15 will need to prove that the wooden packaging materials are either treated to the appropriate levels and are marked accordingly or are not party to the restrictions. So what actions should exporters be taking now?

Either:

Or: Arrange for your packaging to be supplied using fully processed wooden materials that are exempt from ISPM15 regulations – e.g. Crocodile Boxes, and ask your supplier to provide a Non Use of Wood Packaging declaration for each consignment, which will ensure minimum fuss. Note: There is no need for inspections before despatch

Frequently asked Questions Q What treatments are required? A Timber must either be treated to a core temperature of 56 degrees C for 30 minutes or be fumigated with Methyl Bromide at U.N. approved levels. Q What certificates are needed? A Treated timber must be stamped with the HT (heat treated) or MB (fumigated) marks by an authorized supplier. In addition a Phytosantitary Certificate or other paperwork may be required for certain countries. Q What is WPM?? A Wood Packaging Material (WPM) is any coniferous timber that is used for transport, including timber pallets, cable drums and wooden crates. Q Is there any way around these regulations? A Yes, avoid using timber and instead use only fully manufactured wood products such as plywood, OSB and presswood blocks that do NOT count as WPM and don’t need special certification.

Q I sometimes use individual pieces of softwood dunnage in my packaging. Does each piece need to be stamped with the treatment mark? A Yes, your packaging supplier should stamp any timber items thicker than 6mm that are separate from the main item of packaging. Q What happens if my wood packaging doesn’t comply with ISPM15 standards? A You run the risk of the consignment being refused entry, quarantined and/or returned to its original destination at your expense. Alternatively it might be treated locally, once again at your expense. Q Can I get hold of bespoke wooden packaging that doesn’t need treatment and has no need for further marking? A Yes you can. Crocodile can provide wooden export cases made entirely from materials that are exempt from ISPM15 packaging regulations, along with certificates to ensure that your goods arrive safely with your customer, minimising any possible delays.