Are you sure your pallet is ISPM15 compliant?

ISPM stands for the International Standard for Phytosanitary Measures in international trade and the regulation covering wood packaging materials is publication number 15.

How can you recognise a compliant pallet?

All ISPM compliant pallets must be marked with the country code and a unique identification mark of the wood treatment agent or packaging manufacturer. The type of phytosanitary treatment should also be shown – HT (Heat Treatment) or MB (Methyl Bromide)

Other guidelines which pallet manufacturers must follow

• The moisture content of the wood cannot exceed 22%; a wide variety of softwood and hardwood species can be used.
• Timber quality: no decay, pitch, splits, rot or insect infestations are permitted.
• All boards must consist of a single piece of wood.
• Bottom deck boards are chamfered.
• No protruding nails are allowed.
• The vertical corners of the finished pallet must be clipped at 45 degrees or rounded.

When do ISPM15 pallets need to be repaired or replaced?

Pallets must be removed or repaired if the following occur:

• A board, cross piece or block is missing or broken
• A nail or screw is protruding from the pallet surface
• The appropriate marking has been removed, or is no longer legible.
• A pallet is so dirty or damp that the goods shipped on it could be damaged.
• A pallet is not cleared of attached plastic, paper or other material.

What if a used ISPM15 pallet needs to be repaired?

Only licensed companies are allowed to make or repair official Euro-pallets. One of the leading pallet suppliers in the UK, Whirlowdale, specialises in repairing and recycling where possible – always ensuring that the repaired pallets remain fully compliant.

Pallets are an important part of international trade. A non compliant or badly maintained pallet can be the cause of holding up a delivery, which is costly and unnecessary. To avoid problems and to make sure you have the right pallet use a reliable source like whirlowdale.

For more information about ISPM15 pallets, contact us or call 01709 829061

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