Exporting pallets to Canada

What applies

Solid wood packaging entering Canada is expected to be treated and marked in line with ISPM15, evidenced by the mark applied by the registered operator. Consignments are subject to inspection on arrival, and non-compliant wood packaging can result in the packaging or the consignment being held, treated or refused.

Canada's concern here is not theoretical. Invasive forest pests have caused significant damage in North America, which is why plant-health enforcement on wood packaging is consistent rather than occasional.

What does not apply

EU packaging law has no application to a Canadian movement. The questions that matter on this route are plant-health questions plus whatever your customer specifies commercially.

Practical points on the route

Most UK to Canada freight moves by sea, with the same container considerations as a US movement, plus one of its own: winter. Freight arriving in a Canadian winter goes from a container to a cold yard, and moisture in the pallets behaves accordingly.

• Dunnage, bracing and cradling must comply as well as the pallets
• Marks legible and positioned to be seen without breaking down the load
• Dry stock matters on a long transit and a cold arrival
• Check whether the receiving site has a footprint or entry-type preference
• Pallets shipped as goods rather than as packaging are a separate question

Where to confirm the current position

Requirements are published by the Canadian food inspection agency and can be updated. Work from that source for anything your contract depends on, and involve your customs broker on classification and documentation.