Frequently Asked Questions
What is ISPM 15?
The International Standard for Phytosanitary Measures, publication number 15 – Regulation of wood packaging material (WPM) in international trade. These regulations were intended to prevent the spread of plant pests and destructive organisms between nations of trade. Without ISPM-15, there was worldwide destruction of natural resources, most commonly through the use of non-treated wood packaging material.
Who controls this standard?
As part of the United Nations Food & Agriculture Organization (FAO), the International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC) controls the regulations through the cooperation of member governments of the UN.
What is classed as WPM?
ISPM-15 applies to coniferous softwood and non-coniferous hardwood used as raw wood packaging material. The standard does not apply to wood packaging made wholly of manufactured wood-based products such as plywood and veneer, reconstituted wood products (particleboard, chipboard, Pressed wood, oriented strand board, high-density fiberboard, and medium-density fiberboard) or products created using glue, heat, and pressure or a combination thereof.
How can you tell if WPM has been treated?
All treated WPM will have the IPPC mark.
ISPM 15 Stamp Certification:
- Compliance allows for 2 treatment options:
- Heat Treatment (HT):
Wood packaging material should be heated in a schedule that achieves a minimum core temperature of 60 C or 140 F degrees for 30 minutes. Once certified, businesses that do not utilize a kiln on-site may use KD HT (kiln-dried, heat-treated) or HT (heat-treated) lumber for their crating and/or packaging needs. KD-HT material can be purchased at most local lumber retailers. - Methyl Bromide (MB) Fumigation:
The wood packaging material should be fumigated with methyl bromide according to approved treatment schedule. ALSC (American Lumber Standard Committee) has been tasked by the U.S. Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) to administer the fumigation program. ISPM-15 fumigation requirements apply to all species of coniferous (softwood) and non-coniferous (hardwood) packaging materials.
Heat-Treatment Certification
The American Lumber Standard Committee (ALSC) accredits Lee Inspection to provide certification and training to customers nationwide. A stamp for all of your international shipping needs (remove) Our services ensure your wood packaging products comply with international standards under ISPM-15 regulations. Our goal is to make this process easy to understand and implement. - Heat Treatment (HT):