Start with the actual load
Food-sector pallet requirements depend on the packed product and the receiving operation. Distinguish a transport pallet under sealed outer packaging from any material intended to contact food directly.
The requirements to settle first
Obtain the customer’s cleanliness, condition, material and supplier-approval criteria. Address moisture and contamination risks separately from ISPM 15. Do not interpret heat treatment as proof of food-contact approval.
An illustrative planning example
If an operation excludes certain materials from a production area, agree where the shipment changes handling systems. This can affect pallet choice and unloading arrangements even when the export packaging meets plant-health requirements.
Information for the supplier
Packed product; contact conditions; hygiene specification; moisture needs; receiving rules. Give dimensions in millimetres and distinguish product weight from the gross packed weight. Include the quantity and a drawing or loading plan where available. Identify which requirements are mandatory and where you want the supplier to propose an option.
ISPM 15 and the complete packing assembly
For an export movement using regulated raw-wood packaging, confirm the applicable treatment and marking. Include timber blocks, collars, cases and dunnage added during packing. A pallet specification does not certify the cargo or replace destination, customer or handling requirements. Check the final assembly before dispatch, particularly if anything has changed after the order.
Discuss supply and delivery
Contact the team with the specification, delivery postcode, unloading equipment and the date pallets are needed for packing. New or used condition, exact construction, availability, price and delivery are confirmed against the enquiry. For repeat requirements, describe the expected frequency and how specification changes will be controlled.
Sources & further reading
Forestry Commission: wood packaging material for import and export (opens in a new tab)HSE: pallet safety, PM15 (opens in a new tab)References reviewed 7 October 2026. Confirm the current rules for your shipment with the relevant authority or freight adviser.