ISPM 15 & International Wood Packaging

In addition to pest control and cleaning services, Al Tayseer ensures full compliance with ISPM 15 & International Wood Packaging Standards. These globally recognized standards are vital to protecting ecosystems, preventing the spread of invasive pests, and ensuring smooth cross-border trade. Businesses dealing with exports must adhere to these guidelines to avoid shipment delays and penalties.

ISPM 15 was developed by the International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC) as a unified standard for the treatment of solid wood packaging material. The regulations apply to pallets, crates, dunnage, boxes, and other wood packaging components used in international trade. By enforcing uniform treatment methods, ISPM 15 reduces the risk of pests traveling across countries and damaging agriculture, forestry, and the environment.

What is ISPM 15?

ISPM 15 (International Standards for Phytosanitary Measures No. 15) sets out the rules for treating solid wood packaging material used in global trade. Its primary aim is to prevent the spread of harmful pests and diseases hidden inside untreated wood, which can threaten crops, forests, and natural ecosystems worldwide.

How Does ISPM 15 Work?

Any wood packaging material thicker than 6mm must undergo treatment and marking before export. The process includes:

• Debarking – removing bark to eliminate hiding places for pests.
• Treatment – usually through heat treatment, which destroys insects and larvae.
• Marking – applying the “wheat stamp” that proves compliance and is recognized worldwide.

This stamp ensures shipments pass smoothly through international ports and customs without delays or rejections.

Treatment Methods Compared

Treatment Method How It Works Advantages Disadvantages Heat Treatment (HT) Wood is heated to at least 56°C for 30 minutes throughout its core. Eco-friendly, safe, no chemical residue, accepted worldwide. Needs specialized equipment and careful monitoring. Methyl Bromide Fumigation (MB) Wood is exposed to a toxic gas that kills pests. Quick process, previously common worldwide. Phased out due to toxicity, ozone depletion, and legal restrictions. Kiln Drying / Pressure Treatment Wood is dried or treated under controlled heat or pressure. Reduces pests and moisture content. Not always accepted unless meeting ISPM 15 heat standards. Alternative Materials Using plywood, MDF, OSB, chipboard, presswood, or plastic packaging. Exempt from ISPM 15, lightweight, and ready-to-use. May lack durability compared to solid wood.

Key Compliance Points

• Compliance with ISPM 15 guidelines ensures shipments meet international packaging safety requirements.
• Authorized under the BMSB Treatment Provider’s scheme for exports to Australia and New Zealand.
• ISPM 15 prevents pests from spreading through untreated wood packaging.
• All wooden packaging above 6mm thickness must be treated before export.
• Heat treatment is the most reliable and widely accepted method.
• Chemical fumigation with methyl bromide is being phased out due to health, legal, and environmental risks.
• Packaging wood must be debarked, treated, and stamped with the “wheat mark” for compliance.
• Exemptions: engineered wood (plywood, veneer, MDF, HDF, OSB, chipboard, presswood), plastic, or paper materials.
• Countries like the EU, U.S., Australia, and Gulf nations enforce strict ISPM 15 border checks.
• Non-compliance may result in fines, shipment rejection, or returned goods.

For exporters, compliance is not just about meeting regulations—it builds trust with global partners, protects brand reputation, and ensures that goods reach destinations without costly disruptions. Al Tayseer helps businesses maintain this compliance with reliable treatments and certification support.

Why Choose Al Tayseer?

Al Tayseer is more than just a service provider; it is a compliance partner for businesses across Dubai, Sharjah, and Ajman. With years of expertise in pest management, building cleaning, and international packaging compliance, we deliver services that go beyond routine treatments.

Our team follows advanced, eco-friendly methods to control pests, while ensuring that wooden packaging meets the strictest international standards. Whether you are a homeowner seeking reliable pest protection, a business requiring regular building maintenance, or an exporter needing ISPM 15 certified wood packaging, Al Tayseer has the right solution.

By choosing Al Tayseer, clients gain access to safe, effective, and approved services that not only protect properties and shipments but also support long-term compliance with international trade and environmental regulations.