As most companies
are aware, the IPPC world body organization made up
of around 120 countries passed a new standard in March
2002. The intent of this new standard is to create
consistent universal guidelines for the import/export
of wooden products around the world to prevent the
spread of certain insects which can be found in wood.
Essentially, all wooden products (including pallets
obviously) must be appropriately treated and properly
identified to ensure acceptance when shipped to other
countries. Acceptable treatment is one of the following:
1) Heat Treatment to a minimum of 56 deg C for a minimum
of 30 minutes or 2) Fumigation with Methyl Bromide
(which is due to be phased out by the EPA in 2005).
In addition, the pallets must also be stamped to prove
that they were treated.
This new standard applies to hardwood, softwood, new
pallets, crating & recycled pallets. Enforcement
began on a limited basis in 2003 and is now in effect
around a majority of the world. “Enforcement”
means that products shipped on untreated or improperly
marked pallets could either be destroyed or held up
for long periods of time when entering other countries.
This is just a short summary of the
new requirements, and the status of many countries
changes frequently, so please call us to learn exactly
how you will be affected and how we can help you avoid
any shipment issues.
