A commitment of quality and assurance
The International Standards for Phytosanitary Measures #15 (ISPM 15) requires all wood packaging that crosses our borders, both softwood and hardwood, be treated to stop the spread of pests. This certification is crucial for international export as un-certified crates, packaging, and shipping containers may be refused entry or charged for fumigation.
To best serve our customers, Tolko - Lake Country Division is ISPM 15 certified. All our bins and packaging can be manufactured to this high standard.
Elements of certification
Created by the International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC), ISPM 15, stands for International Standards for Phytosanitary Measures #15. Certification requires two key elements. First, all packaging must be heated to a core temperature recognized as IPPC compliant. Second, there must be proof of ISPM 15 compliance. We stamp shipping containers with the proper symbol so authorities at the receiving end recognize the crating and packaging is ISPM certified. We also keep a paper-trail, which ensures our products meet these standards.
Purpose of certification
Every landscape is home to some sort of native pest that may not be harmful to the plants living there but may cause significant disruption to the flora and fauna in other regions. Since wood packaging (IE: boxes, crates, pallets, dunnage, etc.) is in constant contact with ground surface, the likelihood of pest contamination is often higher. ISPM 15 exists to limit or reduce the chances of these kinds of pests crossing borders and harming native flora and fauna.