ISPM 15 Wood Packaging for China-to-US Imports: Pallets and Crates

US import preparation · Wood packaging · Reviewed October 16, 2026 · 4 minute read

Wood pallets, crates, skids and dunnage can trigger plant-health requirements even when they are only used to support or protect other products. US importers should verify compliance before cargo leaves the supplier because noncompliant wood packaging can cause an inspection, corrective action or shipment disruption.

Identify regulated wood packaging

APHIS describes regulated wood packaging material as solid wood used to support, protect or carry cargo. Examples include pallets, crates, boxes, skids and dunnage. Ask the supplier whether the shipment uses solid wood, processed wood, plastic or another material; requirements depend on the material and applicable rule.

Check treatment and the official mark

APHIS says wood packaging entering or transiting the US must be pest-free, debarked, treated and marked with the ISPM 15 mark. The mark includes the IPPC symbol, country code, producer or treatment-provider code and treatment code. Ask for clear photos of the mark on each relevant pallet or crate before pickup, and verify that it is legible and applied to the wood packaging.

Do not confuse a mark with cargo approval

ISPM 15 addresses wood packaging, not the admissibility or safety of the goods themselves. Product-specific permits, declarations, customs classification and other agency requirements may still apply. Ask your customs broker about the goods and ask the supplier or packaging provider to confirm the packaging mark.

Inspect before loading

Request that the supplier send photos before cargo is wrapped or loaded. Check that the mark is not covered, damaged or on a disposable label instead of the wood packaging. If packaging is changed or replaced after inspection, ask for updated photos and records.

Plan a pre-shipment review

Send package photos, material description, dimensions, origin, destination and ready date through the [ANELGO inquiry form](../index.html#quote) if you need a transport review. For the official current requirements, consult USDA APHIS and confirm shipment-specific questions with the appropriate authority or broker.

Related guides

Official references

Note: This guide is general planning information, not customs, legal, tax or carrier acceptance advice. Requirements, services, rates and handling depend on the exact goods, route, contract and rules in force. Verify shipment-specific details with the responsible provider or authority before dispatch.

For a route-specific logistics review, provide the product, origin, destination, packed dimensions, weight and ready date.

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