USDA Proposal Would Affect Wooden Pallet Shipments Between U.S. and Canada

A new proposal from the USDA, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) would remove the exemption from ISPM 15 on wood packaging material moving between Canada and the United States in both directions beginning in 2011. The proposed amendment would remove the exemption that currently allows wood packaging material to ship between Canada and the United States without first meeting the treatment and marking requirements of the ISPM 15 regulations  that apply to wood packaging material to and from all other countries.

If adopted, there will be a period of "informed compliance" beginning spring 2011. During this time, wood packaging material that is not treated will be allowed to enter. However, the carrier will be notified that wood packaging will be required to comply once ISPM 15 is fully implemented.

"If adopted, the proposal will have a significant impact on shipments on pallets," said Gary Sharon, vice president, Litco International, a presswood pallet supplier. "What is important for shippers to know is that during the 'informed compliance' period, if insect infestation is found, loads will either be refused or treatment required prior to entering. For companies shipping back and forth between Canada and the U.S., now is the time to convert to ISPM 15 approved export pallets and other packaging to avoid unnecessary costs and delays."

ISPM 15 regulations require that wood packaging material be heat-treated to kill insects or larvae that could infest native woodlands. "This action is necessary in order to prevent the dissemination and spread of pests via wood packaging material from Canada," APHIS stated.

Similarly, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) announced that it has agreed with APHIS to a "harmonized approach to removing the exemption from ISPM 15 on wood packaging material moving between Canada and the U.S. (both directions)." According to CFIA, the requirements would be phased in between 2011 and 2012, with full implementation in place by the summer of 2012, although "no actual time frames have been confirmed at this date."

According to Sharon, presswood pallets manufactured from wood waste and byproducts that are molded under high heat and pressure are a viable solution for companies that want to prepare for the proposed changes as they are already exempt from ISPM 15.

Information on the proposal is available at ISPM15.