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What Is ISPM-15 and Why It Matters for International Shipping

by Dario Kahles

Heat treated ash hardwood dunnage 4x4 8 feet ISPM-15 certifiedIf you ship goods internationally, you've likely encountered the term ISPM-15 — but what does it actually mean, and why does it matter for your shipments?

What Is ISPM-15?

ISPM-15 stands for International Standards for Phytosanitary Measures No. 15. It's a global standard developed by the International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC) that regulates wood packaging materials used in international trade — including dunnage lumber, pallets, crates, and skids.

The goal is simple: prevent the spread of invasive insects and plant diseases across borders through raw wood packaging materials.

What Does ISPM-15 Require?

Wood packaging materials used in international shipments must be treated using one of two approved methods:

  • Heat Treatment (HT) — The wood is heated to a core temperature of 56°C for a minimum of 30 continuous minutes. This kills insects and larvae present in the wood.
  • Methyl Bromide Fumigation (MB) — A chemical treatment, though this method is being phased out in many countries due to environmental concerns.

Heat treatment is the preferred and most widely accepted method worldwide.

The ISPM-15 Mark

Treated wood must be stamped with the official ISPM-15 mark, which includes:

  • The country code (e.g., CA for Canada)
  • The producer/treatment provider code
  • The treatment method (HT for heat treated)

Without this mark, your wood packaging materials may be rejected, quarantined, or destroyed at the port of entry — causing costly delays.

Why It Matters for Dunnage Lumber

Dunnage lumber — the wood used to brace, block, and separate cargo inside shipping containers and freight vehicles — is subject to ISPM-15 regulations when used in international shipments.

Using non-certified dunnage can result in:

  • Shipment rejection at customs
  • Quarantine and fumigation costs
  • Significant shipping delays
  • Fines and penalties

ISPM-15 Certified Dunnage from Ontario

At Cedarwood Ontario, we supply ISPM-15 heat-treated dunnage lumber in pine, hemlock, and ash — ready for export. Our dunnage is properly stamped and certified, so your shipments clear customs without issue.

We supply bulk orders of 2,000 pieces or more, with availability across Ontario.

Ready to order or need a custom quote? Call us at 519-576-5788 or browse our dunnage lumber collection.

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