ISPM 15 explained: wooden crates and pallets for furniture export

What is ISPM 15?

ISPM 15 is an international phytosanitary standard on wood packaging material. Its purpose is to prevent harmful organisms from spreading with packaging made of wood. Türkiye applies it through a regulation on the heat treatment and marking of wood packaging materials, as listed by the International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC).

What does the Turkish regulation cover?

According to the IPPC entry for Türkiye, the regulation applies to exported wood packaging such as pallets, crates, cases, boxes, dunnage, and cable and bobbin reels. It covers heat treatment, the ISPM 15 mark, a traceability mark and a QR code, as well as permits and inspections.

It does not apply to some materials, including fully processed engineered boards such as plywood, particle board, fibreboard and OSB, or to wood that is 6 mm thick or thinner. It also does not cover the furniture itself, only the wood packaging around it.

What should a furniture buyer ask?

• Will the crates and pallets carry the ISPM 15 mark, and is this stated on the quotation or packing list?
• Does my destination country apply additional wood packaging rules? Ask your customs broker.
• How are the goods protected inside the crate (film, bubble wrap, cartons)?
• Who is responsible for packing damage, and what photos will I receive before loading?

We wrap each piece in film and bubble wrap, pack it in cartons and place it in wooden export crates on pallets. When you request a quotation, ask us to confirm the packing and marking for your destination. See our export information.

Sources

• IPPC: Türkiye regulation on heat treatment and marking of wood packaging materials