ISPM 15 for Wooden Pallets and Dunnage in Salt Exports

Even when the commodity itself is not plant material, raw-wood pallets and dunnage used in an export shipment may be subject to wood-packaging phytosanitary rules. Pallet compliance should therefore be treated as a separate logistics control.

What does ISPM 15 cover?

The IPPC ISPM 15 standard describes phytosanitary measures intended to reduce pest risks associated with raw-wood packaging material moving in international trade. Pallets, crates and dunnage can fall within this scope.

Is every wood-based material covered?

Some fully processed wood products may be excluded. Buyers should check the material and the applicable standard rather than assuming that every wood-based component is treated identically.

What should buyers verify?

The pallet mark, its legibility, pallet integrity and supporting supplier records can be checked before shipment. Destination-country implementation should also be confirmed.

Do not forget dunnage

Raw-wood blocks or supports added during loading can create a compliance issue even when the main pallets are acceptable. Loading teams should include dunnage in the inspection.

How to include it in a purchase specification

Where wooden packaging is used, the PO or packaging specification can identify the required standard, acceptable pallet type and the evidence expected before loading.

Checklist

• Pallet material
• ISPM 15 mark
• Mark legibility
• Dunnage
• Destination requirements
• Pre-shipment photos

Source note: The IPPC publishes ISPM 15 for phytosanitary management of raw-wood packaging material used in international trade. Destination-country implementation should be checked separately.

Related guides

• Salt Packaging Specification Guide
• Palletizing and Logistics for Bulk Rock Salt Exports
• Rock Salt Container Loading Checklist