The IPPC stamp is the official mark on ISPM-15-compliant wood packaging showing treatment compliance.
Detailed Definition
The IPPC stamp, formally the ISPM 15 mark, contains the IPPC symbol, the two-letter ISO country code (US for the United States), a unique number assigned by the national plant protection organization to the producer or treatment provider, and the treatment code: HT for heat treatment, DH for dielectric heating or MB for methyl bromide. It must be legible, permanent and not transferable, and appear on at least two opposite sides of each unit. Stenciling, stamping and branding are all acceptable ways to apply it.
Reading the mark on a pallet
A complete mark shows the IPPC symbol beside the country code, the producer or treatment provider number and the treatment code, usually inside a border. In the US, marks are applied under the program administered by the American Lumber Standard Committee through accredited inspection agencies, and the number traces back to a specific registered facility. Extra information may appear but does not replace the required elements. ISPM 15 says red and orange should be avoided because those colors are used for dangerous goods labels.
Common stamp problems at receiving or export
- A mark on only one side, or worn so it cannot be read.
- A missing treatment code or country code.
- A repaired pallet where untreated wood was added; repaired and remanufactured units have specific rules under ISPM 15.
- Stamps on loose lumber only; the assembled packaging needs its own mark.
- Look-alike marks that copy the format without a registered number.
If in doubt, ask the supplier which inspection agency audits the facility and confirm the registration with that agency. Keeping a photo of the marks on outbound export loads is a simple record if a shipment is questioned.
Authoritative Sources
- International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC): the United Nations body that maintains the ISPM-15 international wood packaging standard.
- USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (USDA-APHIS): the US federal authority that enforces ISPM-15 wood packaging compliance for imports and exports.
Related Glossary Terms
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the IPPC stamp have to be burned into the wood?
No. ISPM 15 allows the mark to be applied by stenciling, stamping or branding, as long as it is legible, permanent and not transferable. Many US producers use ink stamps or stencils. The mark must be on at least two opposite sides and should not be in red or orange. Hand-drawn marks or labels that can be peeled off do not meet the requirement.
Can I stamp my own pallets with the IPPC mark?
Only if your facility is registered in the national program. In the US that means participating through an inspection agency accredited by the American Lumber Standard Committee, which assigns your unique number and audits treatment and marking. Applying the IPPC symbol without authorization misrepresents compliance, and shipments with improper marks can be refused, treated or destroyed at the destination, often at the shipper's cost.