Heat Treatment
ISPM-15 certified treatment for international shipping compliance — protecting global trade from invasive pests
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International Standards for Wood Packaging
ISPM-15 (International Standards for Phytosanitary Measures No. 15) is an international regulation developed by the International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC), a treaty organization under the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). The regulation requires that all wood packaging materials (WPM) used in international trade be treated to eliminate pests that could be transported across borders and damage ecosystems in the destination country.
The regulation was first adopted in 2002 in response to growing concerns about invasive species — particularly the Asian longhorned beetle (ALB), the pine wood nematode (PWN), and the emerald ash borer (EAB) — being transported in untreated wood packaging. Since then, ISPM-15 has been adopted by over 180 countries and is enforced at customs checkpoints worldwide. Non-compliant shipments can be rejected, quarantined, fumigated at the shipper's expense, or destroyed.
ISPM-15 applies to all solid wood packaging materials thicker than 6mm, including pallets, crates, dunnage, skids, and other wood used to support or contain cargo during international transport. The regulation does not apply to processed wood products such as plywood, particle board, oriented strand board (OSB), or veneer, which are considered pest-free due to their manufacturing process.
Compliance requires two things: the wood must be treated using an approved method, and it must be marked with the official IPPC stamp indicating the country of origin, facility certification number, and treatment method used. Without this stamp, wood packaging is considered non-compliant regardless of whether it has actually been treated.
Our Treatment Process
Intake & Pre-Inspection
Pallets are received, counted, and inspected for bark residue (must be less than 3cm wide or 50 sq cm), existing pest damage, and structural defects that could affect treatment efficacy.
Bark Removal (if needed)
Any bark exceeding ISPM-15 tolerances is removed. The regulation requires that bark-free zones are maintained to prevent pest harborage. We trim all non-compliant bark before treatment.
Kiln Loading
Pallets are loaded into our industrial heat treatment kiln with proper spacing to ensure uniform air circulation. Temperature sensors are placed at multiple positions including the core of the thickest wood members.
Ramp-Up Phase
The kiln temperature is raised gradually to prevent thermal stress and cracking. Our computerized control system manages the temperature ramp at a controlled rate based on the wood species and moisture content of the load.
Core Temperature Hold
Once the core temperature of the thickest piece reaches 56 degrees Celsius (133 degrees Fahrenheit), the hold timer begins. The temperature must remain at or above 56 degrees C throughout the entire cross-section for a minimum of 30 continuous minutes.
Continuous Monitoring
Multiple calibrated temperature probes record data throughout the treatment cycle. Our system logs temperature readings at 60-second intervals, creating a complete thermal profile that serves as proof of compliance.
Cool-Down Phase
After the required hold time is met, the kiln temperature is gradually reduced. Rapid cooling can cause checking and splitting, so we manage the cool-down rate carefully to preserve pallet integrity.
Stamping & Marking
Each compliant pallet receives the official IPPC/ISPM-15 stamp on both sides. The stamp includes our country code (US), our facility certification number, the treatment method (HT), and the IPPC logo.
Documentation
We provide a treatment certificate for every batch, including the kiln run number, temperature logs, hold time records, pallet count, and the facility certification details. This documentation is your proof of compliance for customs.
Release & Staging
Treated pallets are staged separately from non-treated inventory in a designated clean area to prevent cross-contamination. They remain segregated until pickup or delivery.
Heat Treatment Science Explained
Heat treatment works by raising the temperature of the wood to a level that is lethal to all life stages of target organisms — eggs, larvae, pupae, and adults — while preserving the structural integrity and usability of the wood.
Target Temperature: 56 degrees C (133 degrees F)
This temperature is scientifically established as the lethal threshold for all known wood-boring insects and nematodes that pose a risk in international trade. At 56 degrees C, proteins in the organisms denature, cell membranes rupture, and metabolic processes cease irreversibly. This temperature was chosen because it is high enough to ensure 100% pest mortality but low enough to avoid significant damage to the wood.
Hold Time: Minimum 30 Minutes
The 30-minute hold requirement ensures that even organisms deep within the wood core are exposed to lethal temperatures for a sufficient duration. The clock does not start until the core of the thickest piece reaches 56 degrees C. For very thick wood members, the total kiln time may be several hours because the core heats more slowly than the surface. Our temperature probes verify that the hold time is met at the most critical point.
Temperature Curve Profile
A typical heat treatment cycle follows a predictable curve: the ramp-up phase takes 2-4 hours depending on initial wood temperature and moisture content; the hold phase lasts a minimum of 30 minutes once core temperature is reached; and the cool-down phase takes 1-3 hours. The total cycle is typically 4-8 hours. Wetter wood takes longer to heat because water has a high specific heat capacity and must be driven off.
Moisture Content Effects
Wood moisture content significantly affects treatment time and energy consumption. Green (freshly cut) wood with moisture content above 30% requires substantially more energy and time to reach core temperature compared to air-dried or kiln-dried wood at 15-20% moisture content. We measure moisture content before treatment and adjust our kiln schedule accordingly to ensure compliance while minimizing energy use.
Wood Species Considerations
Different wood species have different thermal conductivity, density, and moisture characteristics. Dense hardwoods (oak, maple) heat more slowly than softwoods (pine, spruce) because they are denser and often retain more moisture. Our kiln operators adjust the treatment profile based on the species mix in each load to ensure that even the most difficult-to-treat pieces reach compliance.
Why 56 degrees C Works
Research by the IPPC and national plant protection organizations worldwide has confirmed that a core temperature of 56 degrees C for 30 minutes achieves complete mortality of all target organisms including the Asian longhorned beetle (Anoplophora glabripennis), pine wood nematode (Bursaphelenchus xylophilus), and bark beetles (Scolytinae). This threshold has been validated through extensive laboratory testing and field trials across multiple countries.
Kiln Specifications & Capacity
Our heat treatment facility is purpose-built for ISPM-15 compliance processing. Our kiln and monitoring equipment meet all requirements set by APHIS (Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, USDA) for authorized heat treatment facilities.
Kiln Details
Certifications & Compliance
APHIS Authorized Facility
Inspected and authorized by USDA APHIS to perform ISPM-15 heat treatment. Our facility number appears on every stamp we apply.
IPPC Registered
Registered with the International Plant Protection Convention through the US National Plant Protection Organization (NPPO).
Annual Compliance Audits
Our facility undergoes annual audits by APHIS inspectors who verify kiln performance, record-keeping, stamp management, and treatment protocols.
Probe Calibration Records
All temperature measurement equipment is calibrated at least annually with records maintained for APHIS review. Calibration is traceable to NIST standards.
Treatment Records Retention
Complete treatment records for every batch are retained for a minimum of 3 years as required by APHIS regulations. Records include kiln run number, date, pallet count, temperature logs, and probe placement.
Documentation We Provide
- Official IPPC/ISPM-15 stamp applied to both sides of every pallet
- Treatment certificate with kiln run number and date
- Complete temperature log showing ramp-up, hold, and cool-down phases
- Proof of core temperature compliance (56 degrees C for 30+ minutes)
- Batch identification linking each pallet to its specific kiln run
- Facility certification number and APHIS authorization documentation
- Digital copies of all records emailed to the customer
- Chain-of-custody documentation from treatment to release
Country-by-Country ISPM-15 Requirements
Nearly every country in the world requires ISPM-15 compliance for wood packaging materials. However, some countries have additional requirements beyond the basic standard. Here is a detailed breakdown of major export destinations.
| Country / Region | ISPM-15 Required | Additional Requirements / Notes |
|---|---|---|
| European Union (27 countries) | Yes | Strict enforcement at all ports of entry. Must have IPPC mark clearly visible. Bark tolerance enforced (less than 3cm wide). Some EU ports conduct random phytosanitary inspections. |
| United Kingdom | Yes | Post-Brexit, UK enforces ISPM-15 independently from the EU. Same requirements apply. Additional paperwork may be needed for Northern Ireland shipments under the Windsor Framework. |
| Canada | Yes | CFIA (Canadian Food Inspection Agency) enforces ISPM-15. Canada and the US have mutual recognition, but the IPPC stamp is still required. Bark-free requirements are strictly enforced. |
| Mexico | Yes | SENASICA enforces ISPM-15 at all border crossings. US-Mexico trade volume means heavy enforcement. Non-compliant shipments at the Laredo crossing face particularly strict penalties. |
| China | Yes | GACC (General Administration of Customs) enforces ISPM-15 with additional inspections at major ports. Fumigation certificates may be requested in addition to the HT stamp. Some regional customs offices have additional documentation requirements. |
| Australia | Yes | One of the strictest enforcement regimes worldwide. BICON (Biosecurity Import Conditions) system governs all wood packaging. Australia requires the IPPC mark and may require additional treatment for specific pest risk categories. 100% of wood packaging is inspected at the border. |
| New Zealand | Yes | MPI (Ministry for Primary Industries) enforces ISPM-15 with strict border biosecurity. Similar to Australia in enforcement rigor. Additional treatment may be required if live pests are detected at inspection. |
| Japan | Yes | MAFF (Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries) enforces ISPM-15. Japan accepts heat treatment (HT) and methyl bromide fumigation (MB). Non-compliant wood packaging must be treated at the port or re-exported. |
| South Korea | Yes | QIA (Animal and Plant Quarantine Agency) enforces ISPM-15. Additional fumigation requirements may apply for certain commodities. Inspection rates are high, especially for shipments from countries with known pest issues. |
| India | Yes | DPQIS (Directorate of Plant Protection, Quarantine and Storage) enforces ISPM-15. India has been increasing enforcement in recent years. Methyl bromide fumigation is still widely used domestically but HT is accepted for imports. |
| Brazil | Yes | MAPA (Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Food Supply) enforces ISPM-15. Brazil has experienced significant invasive species issues and enforces the standard rigorously at all major ports. |
| South Africa | Yes | DALRRD (Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development) enforces ISPM-15. Enforcement is focused on major ports (Durban, Cape Town). Inland border crossings may have less consistent inspection. |
| Middle East (UAE, Saudi Arabia, etc.) | Yes | All GCC countries enforce ISPM-15. Dubai and Jeddah are major transshipment ports with active phytosanitary inspection programs. Some countries require the stamp to be in English. |
| Southeast Asia (Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, etc.) | Yes | Enforcement varies by country. Singapore and Thailand have strong programs. Vietnam and other developing nations are increasing enforcement as trade volumes grow. |
| Russia & CIS Countries | Yes | Rosselkhoznadzor enforces ISPM-15 in Russia. Enforcement at land borders can be inconsistent. It is strongly recommended to ensure compliance for any shipments transiting or destined for Russia and neighboring countries. |
| Argentina | Yes | SENASA enforces ISPM-15 at all entry points. Argentina has strong pest management regulations and actively inspects wood packaging on imported goods. |
This list covers major trade partners but is not exhaustive. Over 180 countries enforce ISPM-15. If you are shipping to a destination not listed above, contact us and we will verify the specific requirements.
Heat Treatment vs. Other Methods
ISPM-15 recognizes two approved treatment methods: heat treatment (HT) and methyl bromide fumigation (MB). There are also alternative approaches that eliminate the need for treatment altogether. Here is how they compare.
| Criteria | Heat Treatment (HT) | Methyl Bromide (MB) | Processed Wood (exempt) |
|---|---|---|---|
| ISPM-15 Approved | Yes | Yes (being phased out) | Exempt from ISPM-15 |
| Environmental Impact | Low — no chemicals used | High — ozone-depleting substance | Moderate — manufacturing process |
| Worker Safety | Safe — heat only | Hazardous — toxic gas exposure risk | Safe — no treatment needed |
| Global Acceptance | Universal — accepted everywhere | Being banned in many countries | Universal — no stamp needed |
| Treatment Time | 4-8 hours per cycle | 24-72 hours exposure time | N/A — no treatment required |
| Cost | Moderate | Higher (+ fumigator fees) | Higher material cost |
| Re-treatment | Required if repaired | Required if repaired | Not required |
| Residual Chemicals | None | Chemical residue remains | None |
| Effect on Wood | Minimal — may reduce moisture | No structural change | N/A — already processed |
| Our Recommendation | Preferred method | Not offered | Consider for repeat exports |
Why We Only Offer Heat Treatment
We exclusively offer heat treatment (HT) because it is the safest, most environmentally responsible, and most universally accepted method of ISPM-15 compliance. Methyl bromide is an ozone-depleting substance that is being phased out under the Montreal Protocol and is already banned for this use in the EU, Canada, Australia, and many other countries. Heat treatment uses no chemicals, leaves no residue, poses no risk to workers or the environment, and is accepted by every country that enforces ISPM-15. It is simply the better choice.
Common Mistakes in ISPM-15 Compliance
Non-compliance with ISPM-15 can result in shipment delays, customs penalties, forced treatment at the destination port (at your expense), or even destruction of your goods. Here are the most common mistakes we see and how to avoid them.
Missing or Illegible IPPC Stamp
The most common reason for customs rejection. The stamp must be clearly visible on at least two opposite sides of the pallet. Stamps that are faded, smeared, partially covered by labels, or obscured by paint will be treated as missing. We apply stamps with industrial-grade ink that resists fading.
How we prevent this: We stamp every pallet clearly on both sides using durable, weather-resistant ink. We inspect stamp quality before release.
Bark Left on Wood
ISPM-15 requires that any bark remaining on treated wood be less than 3cm wide or less than 50 square centimeters in total area. Bark provides harborage for pests and can invalidate treatment. Many shippers overlook small bark fragments that customs inspectors will catch.
How we prevent this: We inspect every pallet for bark before and after treatment. Non-compliant bark is removed before stamping.
Mixing Treated and Untreated Wood
If a stamped pallet is repaired with untreated wood, the entire pallet loses its ISPM-15 compliance. This commonly happens when a board is replaced during shipping preparation without realizing the pallet needs re-treatment. Even one untreated board invalidates the stamp.
How we prevent this: We segregate treated and untreated inventory in our facility and educate customers about the re-treatment requirement after repairs.
Using Non-Solid Wood Without Realizing It
Some shippers assume all wood packaging needs ISPM-15 treatment. In fact, processed wood products like plywood, OSB, and particle board are exempt. Conversely, some shippers use solid wood dunnage, blocking, or bracing without realizing it requires treatment even if the pallets are compliant.
How we prevent this: We help customers identify all wood packaging in their shipments — not just pallets — that may require treatment.
Assuming Treatment Lasts Forever
Heat treatment does not expire, but it is invalidated if the pallet is repaired, modified, or structurally altered in any way. A pallet that was treated five years ago is still compliant — unless it has been repaired since treatment. There is no expiration date, but there is a repair trigger for re-treatment.
How we prevent this: We clearly communicate the re-treatment requirement and offer re-treatment services for previously treated pallets that have been repaired.
Inadequate Documentation
While the IPPC stamp is the primary proof of compliance, some countries (especially Australia, China, and EU members) may request treatment certificates or additional documentation. Arriving at customs without supporting paperwork can cause delays even if the stamps are in order.
How we prevent this: We provide complete documentation packages including treatment certificates, temperature logs, and facility credentials with every order.
Using Old or Unauthorized Stamps
Only stamps applied by an authorized facility with a current APHIS certification are valid. Using old stamps from a facility that has lost its certification, or applying stamps without proper authorization, is a violation that can result in penalties and criminal charges.
How we prevent this: Our facility certification is current and verified annually by APHIS. Every stamp we apply includes our valid facility number.
Shipping Non-Compliant Dunnage
Dunnage — the loose wood used to brace, support, or separate cargo — is subject to ISPM-15 even if the pallets are compliant. Many shippers forget that the loose boards, wedges, and blocks inside a container must also be treated and stamped.
How we prevent this: We treat and stamp dunnage material alongside pallets. We remind customers to include all wood packaging in their treatment orders.
When Is Re-Treatment Required?
ISPM-15 compliance does not expire with time, but it can be invalidated by certain actions. Understanding when re-treatment is required helps you avoid compliance gaps and customs delays.
Re-Treatment IS Required When:
- Any component of the pallet is repaired or replaced with untreated wood
- A deck board, stringer, block, or lead board is added or substituted
- The pallet is structurally modified (e.g., resized, re-nailed with additional components)
- Untreated dunnage or blocking is attached to a treated pallet
- The IPPC stamp is removed, defaced, or becomes unreadable
- A customs inspector determines the pallet was previously treated but has been compromised
- The pallet has been repaired at a facility that does not maintain treated/untreated wood segregation
Re-Treatment is NOT Required When:
- The pallet is used multiple times without repair (treatment does not expire)
- The pallet is cleaned, power-washed, or dried (no structural change)
- Minor cosmetic marks, scuffs, or surface wear occur during normal use
- The stamp fades slightly but remains legible (re-stamp if illegible)
- The pallet is stored indoors or outdoors for any length of time without being altered
- The pallet passes through multiple countries (treatment is recognized internationally)
- Labels, stickers, or banding are applied to the pallet (no structural change)
Our Re-Treatment Service
If you have previously treated pallets that have been repaired and need re-treatment, simply bring them to our facility or schedule a pickup. We will run them through our kiln, re-apply the IPPC stamp, and provide fresh documentation. Re-treatment pricing is the same as initial treatment. We also offer a combined repair-and-treat service: we repair your damaged export pallets and heat-treat them in a single visit, saving you time and a separate trip.
Cost Factors & Pricing Transparency
We believe in transparent, predictable pricing for heat treatment services. Here are the factors that influence the cost and what you can expect when you request a quote.
Volume / Batch Size
Per-unit cost decreases with volume. A full kiln load (150-200 pallets) is the most cost-effective. Partial loads are accommodated but may carry a minimum batch charge. We can combine small orders from multiple customers into a single kiln run when timing allows.
Pallet Size
Standard 48x40 pallets are our baseline pricing. Larger pallets take up more kiln space and may reduce the number of units per cycle, affecting per-unit cost. Very small pallets allow higher stacking density and may be priced lower per unit.
Wood Moisture Content
Wetter wood requires more energy and longer cycle times to reach core temperature. Pallets with high moisture content (above 25-30%) may incur a surcharge or require a pre-drying step. Air-dried or kiln-dried pallets are the most cost-efficient to treat.
Turnaround Time
Standard turnaround (24-48 hours) is included in our base pricing. Same-day rush service for smaller batches may carry a rush surcharge. Advance scheduling helps us batch orders efficiently and avoid rush fees.
Bark Removal
If pallets arrive with bark that exceeds ISPM-15 tolerances, our team will remove it before treatment. Bark removal is a manual process and is charged as a separate service when required. Providing bark-free pallets avoids this cost.
Documentation Requirements
Standard documentation (stamp, treatment certificate, temperature log) is included in the base price. Custom documentation requests — such as notarized certificates, consular legalization, or country-specific phytosanitary forms — may incur additional charges.
Delivery / Pickup
Customer drop-off at our facility has no transportation cost. If you need us to pick up untreated pallets and deliver them back after treatment, our standard transportation rates apply. Bundling treatment with an existing transportation order saves money.
Frequency / Contract
One-time treatment is priced at our standard rate. Recurring customers who treat pallets monthly or more frequently qualify for contract pricing with discounts that increase with commitment. Annual contracts receive the best per-unit rates.
Combined Services
Customers who bundle heat treatment with other services — such as buying, repair, or transportation — receive package discounts. Our Gold Package includes heat treatment at the best possible rate alongside all other services.
Need ISPM-15 Heat Treatment?
Whether you are exporting a single shipment or running a continuous export operation, our certified heat treatment facility has the capacity, expertise, and documentation to ensure your wood packaging clears customs worldwide. Contact us today for a free quote.