Shipping Palettes

Wooden pallets used in Asiapack are manufactured in compliance with the ISPM15 standard to ensure they meet international phytosanitary measures.

What is ISPM15?

ISPM15 (International Standard for Phytosanitary Measures No. 15) is a set of regulations published by the International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC). This standard specifically addresses the treatment of wood packaging materials (WPM) in international trade to prevent the spread of pests, insects, and diseases that could harm plant health and ecosystems globally.

Why ISPM15?

Asiapack follows ISPM15 standards to help prevent the international transport and spread of pests, diseases, and insects that could harm plants, agriculture, and ecosystems. By adhering to ISPM15, Asiapack ensures that the wooden packaging materials, such as pallets and crates, are treated properly to eliminate any harmful organisms before they are shipped internationally. This reduces the risk of introducing or spreading invasive species that could negatively impact the environment, local economies, and agricultural industries worldwide. The goal is to protect plant health and maintain the balance of ecosystems across different regions.

ISPM15 Treatment Requirements

The treatment process for WPM, such as wooden pallets, crates, and boxes, involves either heat treatment or fumigation with methyl bromide. Heat treatment requires the wood to be heated to a core temperature of at least 56°C for a minimum of 30 minutes, while fumigation involves the use of methyl bromide, a chemical pesticide, to eradicate harmful organisms. After the treatment, each piece of packaging material must be stamped with an official mark indicating compliance with the ISPM15 standard. This mark verifies that the packaging has undergone the required treatment and is safe for international transport.

What is Classed as WPM (Wood Packaging Material)?

ISPM15 applies to a broad range of wooden packaging materials (WPM) such as wooden pallets, crates, boxes, dunnage, and spools. The regulation is particularly focused on coniferous softwood and non-coniferous hardwood, as these materials are commonly used for packaging and can harbour pests. However, materials made from alternative substances, such as plastic, paper, metal, or wood-based composite products like plywood, are exempt from these phytosanitary requirements.