Documents
Fumigation certificate (ISPM 15)
Proof that wood packaging or cargo was treated against pests, under the international ISPM 15 standard for solid wood.
In four languages
Solid wood packaging such as pallets, crates and dunnage thicker than 6 mm must be heat-treated or fumigated and stamped with the IPPC mark under ISPM 15, which the UAE, the GCC, Turkey and many other countries apply. The IPPC stamp on the wood is the main proof; a separate fumigation certificate from a licensed company is required for some goods and destinations, for example certain agricultural products, used goods, or when a letter of credit asks for one. Plywood, OSB and plastic pallets are exempt from ISPM 15. Example: a Foshan machinery supplier packs equipment in solid pine crates for Dubai. Without the IPPC mark the crates could be refused or treated at the importer's cost, so the supplier uses stamped heat-treated wood and the forwarder checks the marks before loading.
Questions
Do plywood or plastic pallets need fumigation?
No. Plywood, OSB and plastic pallets are exempt from ISPM 15. Only solid wood packaging needs treatment and the IPPC mark.
What happens if wooden pallets have no ISPM 15 mark?
They can be refused, treated or destroyed at destination at the importer's cost, which also delays the cargo.