Start with the actual load
Marine-sector shipments may involve machinery, spares and irregular assemblies. Establish where packing takes place and whether empty pallets are delivered to a business site or a controlled port facility.
The requirements to settle first
Provide the actual delivery address, authorised contact and unloading arrangements. The onward vessel or port name is not a substitute for those details. Discuss product preservation and restraint with the relevant packing specialist.
An illustrative planning example
A spare part needed for a scheduled departure may have little time for rework. Submit the drawing and destination requirements early enough to resolve packaging questions before collection.
Information for the supplier
Equipment drawing; packing site; deadline; access instructions; onward destination. 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.