When we are exporting goods, and we need to buy pallets, we must comply with specific international pallet standards and regulations. These requirements are so the pallets able to travel freely between customs. Today we want to expand this information and talk in depth about what is required. Therefore, know what features to look for when we want to buy pallets.
International Pallet Standards: ISPM-15 or IPPC?
When products started travelling on pallets, we commenced looking for what type of pallets to use and take into account international pallet standards. Hence, the requirements to comply with came into question. One of the first doubts that appear is when advertisements of companies include their pallets complying with two different regulations: ISPM-15 and IPPC.
In reality, ISPM-15 is an acronym that means the following: International Standard for Phytosanitary Measures, publication number 15.
The acronym IPPC stands for the International Plan Protection Convention. The IPPC is an international treaty that applies almost to all countries that carry out international trade. Hence this covers any product that could introduce new pests.
This body established in 2002, the ISPM-15, are standards for the fumigation and mandatory marking of wooden packaging and containers. Thus, we can say that when we want to buy pallets destined for export, we must ensure that they comply with the ISPM or ISPM 15 standard.
Which countries are subscribed to these regulations?
The list of countries subscribed to these regulations varies constantly. For this reason, it is advisable to visit the ISPM 15 web page where you will find updated information.
What does it mean that a pallet meets this standard?
To this end, pallets must undergo some specific treatments:
- Pallet Treatment by applying methyl bromide.
- Heat treatment: Heat the pallets up to 56ºC for 30 minutes.
How to identify the pallets that comply with this regulation?
Export pallets meeting with ISPM15 have an international IPPC symbol (a spike etching). Also, it has the following information: country code (IE for Ireland), province code, the registration number of the supplier and treatment code (HT in the case of heat treatment, or MB in the event of use of Methyl Bromide).
Should all wooden packaging meet these requirements?
This regulation only affects pallets, containers and packaging made of wood with a thickness of more than 6mm. Also, those manufactured with wood derivatives or with technical woods (plywood, agglomerates, fibres, etc.) are also excluded.
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