New USDA Regulations - Wood Packaging Materials Entering the U.S.

As you may be aware, the U.S. Department of Agriculture has introduced new rules surrounding the import of wood packaging materials (WPM), such as pallets and crates. From September 16, 2005 all WPM are required to be heat treated or fumigated and marked with an approved international mark certifying treatment. This rule change affects all customers that use WPM in their USA-import cargo.

The amended regulations are aligned with international standards approved by the United Nations in March 2002 and are designed to prevent the transfer of insect pests and to standardise the use of wood packaging products in the global supply chain.

In cases where WPM is not properly treated and marked, port authorities are permitted to order the immediate re-export of the WPM or have it treated or destroyed at the importer’s expense.

If you are involved with the importation of WPM, we strongly encourage you to refer to the USDA website, which provides further information about these changes http://www.aphis.usda.gov/ppq/wpm/guidelines.pdf.

Please contact your local APL sales or customer service representative if you have any further questions.