ISPM 15 certified wooden packaging is essential in the international transport of art, furniture, and antiques. Many countries require that wooden crates and pallets be heat-treated or fumigated to prevent the spread of pests. If the packaging does not meet these requirements, shipments can be delayed, returned, or, in the worst case, rejected or destroyed by customs authorities.
What is ISPM 15?
ISPM 15 (International Standards for Phytosanitary Measures No. 15) is an international standard regulating the use of wooden packaging in exports. Wood used for transport crates, pallets, and dunnage must be treated to eliminate pests and stamped with an ISPM 15 mark confirming compliance.
- Heat Treatment (HT): The wood is heated to at least 56°C for 30 minutes to kill pests.
- Methyl Bromide Treatment (MB): The wood is treated with a chemical gas, though this is restricted in many countries for environmental reasons.
When is ISPM 15 packaging required?
ISPM 15 certified packaging is required when exporting to countries outside the EU, including the USA, Canada, China, and Australia. Within the EU, there is no requirement for ISPM 15 packaging for transport between member states.
Especially strict rules apply in Australia and New Zealand, where authorities may reject a shipment if the packaging shows signs of pests – even if it carries the ISPM 15 mark.
The transporter’s responsibility
- The packaging must be produced by a certified company and correctly marked.
- Wooden crates and pallets must display a clear ISPM 15 stamp on two opposite sides.
- Documentation must be in order; customs may request proof of compliance.
- Repairs or modifications may invalidate the certification.
- Non-certified wood must not be used as dunnage inside certified packaging.
Consequences of missing ISPM 15 certification
- Delays if customs detain the shipment.
- Additional costs for repacking in approved packaging.
- Rejection or destruction of the packaging in certain countries.
In the art and furniture industry, even minor delays can have major consequences if an artwork misses an exhibition or auction deadline.
ISPM 15 and secure international transport
ISPM 15 packaging is not just a technicality but a necessity for safe, hassle-free transport. Transporters handling art, antiques, and furniture must ensure correct marking, proper documentation, and compliance with destination-specific requirements.
By following ISPM 15 rules, you can avoid delays, extra costs, and ensure valuable shipments arrive without unnecessary complications.
IPPC and its connection to ISPM 15
ISPM 15 was developed as part of the international guidelines under the IPPC (International Plant Protection Convention), a UN-affiliated treaty aiming to protect plants and forests from pests across borders. IPPC is also responsible for the well-known ISPM 15 mark, which features a wheat-stalk symbol along with codes identifying the country of origin, producer, and treatment type.
This mark acts as a globally recognised “passport” for wooden packaging, allowing customs to verify compliance without further inspection.
An approved ISPM 15 mark always includes:
- The IPPC symbol – a wheat stalk indicating compliance with IPPC standards.
- Country code – two letters (ISO 3166) showing the country of origin (e.g., DK = Denmark, DE = Germany).
- Producer code and treatment type – a unique producer number followed by HT (Heat Treatment) or MB (Methyl Bromide).
