In the world of logistics, shipping, and packaging, pallets are the silent workhorses—they carry the weight of our economy, literally. But not all pallets are created equal. Heat-treated pallets (HT) are wooden pallets heated in a kiln to kill pests, stamped for ISPM 15 compliance, and safe for export shipping worldwide. If your business is shipping internationally or prioritizes safety and quality, HT pallets are not just smart—they’re essential for compliant, pest-free shipments.
What Are Heat-Treated Pallets?
Heat-treated pallets are processed to meet international standards through a controlled method that eliminates pests, insects, and pathogens commonly found in untreated wood. A heat-treated pallet (HT pallet) is a wooden pallet that has been heated to a minimum core temperature of 56°C (132.8°F) for at least 30 minutes, effectively killing pests and making it safe for export shipping. This process ensures the pallet meets global shipping and customs requirements for pallets for export.
This method, guided by the International Standards for Phytosanitary Measures No. 15 (ISPM-15), prevents the global spread of invasive pests that may live in wood packaging materials. The ISPM 15 HT stamp is applied by certified heat-treatment facilities approved by a country’s National Plant Protection Organization (NPPO), in the United States, this authority operates under NAPPO. This internationally recognized regulation, developed by the International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC), sets the global standards for treating wood packaging materials, including pallets, used in international shipping.
The stamp includes the ISPM 15 logo, country code, facility certification number, and treatment code (HT), confirming that the pallets meet international standards for safe, compliant export shipping. Businesses cannot apply the stamp themselves; it must come from a qualified, certified treatment facility, like Performance Pallet. For more information, visit the IPPC ISPM 15 page.
Why HT Pallets Are Essential for Export
- Compliance with Global Regulations
Countries around the world enforce ISPM-15 (International Standards for Phytosanitary Measures No. 15) requirements for wood packaging materials. Customs officials may reject or destroy shipments that use non-compliant pallets. Heat-treated pallets help you avoid shipping delays, penalties, and costly rework, keeping your supply chain running smoothly.
- Pest Prevention
Untreated wood often harbors insects and fungi that pose serious risks. Heat treatment eliminates these pests and reduces the chance of infestations that could damage both the pallet and its cargo during international shipping.
- Durability and Safety
While not indestructible, heat-treated pallets often perform better under stress than untreated or chemically treated options. Stronger wooden pallets lead to fewer breakdowns, less downtime, and safer material handling across long-distance or export shipments.
- Eco-Friendly Choice
Heat-treating doesn’t involve harmful chemicals like methyl bromide, a substance banned or restricted in many regions. The process leaves no toxic residue and supports sustainable supply chain practices.
How to Identify a Heat-Treated Pallet
One of the easiest ways to confirm whether a pallet is heat-treated is to look for the ISPM-15 stamp. This stamp is usually branded or inked directly onto the wood—typically on one of the side stringers or blocks of the pallet.
The stamp includes:
- The IPPC logo, which must appear inside a square according to official logo requirements.
- A two-letter country code (e.g., “US” for the United States)
- A unique certification number for the treatment facility
- The treatment code (HT) for heat-treated.
If you don’t see this stamp, chances are the wooden pallet has not been heat-treated, and it may not be suitable for export or sensitive applications.
Choosing the Right Wooden Pallet Supplier
Not all wooden pallet suppliers are equal. When sourcing heat-treated pallets, choose a supplier certified to follow ISPM-15 standards. At Performance Pallet, we provide high-quality heat-treated pallets for export that meet all regulatory standards, ensuring your shipments are safe, compliant, and on schedule.
In an industry where one weak link can disrupt an entire supply chain, investing in heat-treated pallets is more than a matter of compliance—it’s a commitment to quality, safety, and sustainability. Whether you’re shipping internationally or across the USA, make sure your wood pallets are up to the task.
Need compliant, dependable HT pallets for shipping products internationally? We specialize in supplying heat-treated pallets for companies that ship large volumes or manage warehouse operations. Whether you need a few loads or regular bulk orders, our team can help you get the right pallets for your export needs.
Contact us today to learn more about our heat-treated pallet solutions and order pallets for your company. Let’s keep your shipments moving safely, efficiently, and ready for export.