Navigating Export Regulations: Shipping Overseas with Pallets

International Shipping Best Practices

When shipping it is important to not only follow customs rules, but to help them in the process as well. It is important to pay attention to how everything is labeled. Pallets should have two or more exact duplicate shipping and warning labels placed on their various sides. Some example labels would be those that read, “do not double stack” or “this side up” to protect the items being shipped. Arguably the most important label, is the shipping label.

The shipping label must contain this information:

• Supplier Information (name address or return address)
• Buyer Information (name and destination address)
• Serial Shipping Container Code (SSCC)
• Description of the Products
• Quantity of Products
• Date Code (if applicable)
• Batch Number (if applicable)

ISPM-15 Compliance

Some items have specific regulations for them that may not be the commodity itself. Wood pallets must be heat treated to meet all ISPM-15 regulations. Wood packaging material that does not bear the ISPM-15 stamp must be re-exported (sent back to its country of origin) immediately, typically with the commodity itself. Eventually, this all results in lost revenue and costly delays for both the exporter and for the U.S. importer. To avoid these delays, make sure all pallets bear the heat treatment stamp. Not just a few of the pallets in the sent load. This is all done to reduce, and hopefully eliminate, the spread of foreign pests. Due to the vast amount of lumber being exported, pallets are regularly checked at customs.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection

Familiarizing yourself with any regulations and tariffs that may apply to your commodity is crucial for a seamless experience. Aside from the obvious labeling that is required, ensure you have all proper documentation. Things such as certificates of origin and invoices may be requested. You must also determine if your products require any export licenses etc. before shipping. Everything you must have for a successful and speedy check at customs should be recorded and tracked for subsequent exports. Stay informed on anything that may change your processes and business with multiple resources. There are various newsletters and government websites that may be of use for this. Also, seeking assistance when needed is also a good practice to keep. Regulations are strict and necessary for healthy business practices.

For pallet export information you can subscribe to our newsletter. For pallets that meet these strict exporting regulations fill out a quote form asking for heat treated pallets and one of our dedicated team members will reach out to you almost immediately.