Importing goods into countries for the first time can be a complex process. Customized Brokers has built an unparalleled knowledge base in compliance issues and outstanding relationships with U.S. Customs, the FDA and USDA. For detailed information on the necessary steps to begin importing, click here.

Keep yourself aware of invasive or newly emerging pest issues and diseases that will affect your perishable international cargo shipments.  For more information, click here.  

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Fresh produce deserves fresh thinking.  For access to frequently asked questions to assist in the import process, click here.

Using untreated wood packaging materials violates the USDA rule. When loading ocean containers or domestic trailers, ensure the treatment stamp on pallets and cartons is visible when doors are open and inspections are done. If the stamp is not visible during the inspection, cargo will be marked for stripping and, if it is not in compliance, the shipment will be re-exported or rejected.

An example of a stamp used on Wood Packaging Material to indicate ISPM 15 compliance.

An ISPM 15 compliant mark must include:

• IPPC certification symbol.
• XX: represents the two letter ISO country code (e.g. AU for Australia, US for United States, NZ for New Zealand, GB for United Kingdom).
• 00: represents the unique certification number issued to NPPOs (regulating agencies that oversee the individual wood packaging manufacturers). Inclusion of this certification number ensures that the wood packaging material can be traced back to the NPPO/auditing agency.
• 1111: represents the unique certification number issued to the treatment provider and/or manufacturer. Inclusion of this certification number ensures that the wood packaging material can be traced back to the treatment provider and/or the manufacturer.
• YY: represents the treatment applied to the wood packaging material:
  • HT is the code for heat treatment to a minimum of 56°C (133°F) for a minimum of 30 minutes
  • MB is the code for methyl bromide fumigation.
• DUN: represents the code for when the solid wood material is used for dunnage. The "DUN" Dunnage code is not applied to manufactured wood packaging, only loose lumber/timbers to help secure products being shipped.

The ISPM 15 compliant stamp may include further information as producers and suppliers may choose to include additional information for identification purposes.

The North American Produce Transportation Working Group (NAPTWG) has released best practice guidelines for the transportation of produce. Download it here: