U.S. Phase 3 Inplementation Started 7/5/06

[staffort]

This is a reminder to anyone using or shipping wood packaging, including crates and boxes, that the United States, along with it's fellow NAPPO Members, Canada and Mexico, started the third and final implementation phase of ISPM-15 on July 5, 2006. Many other nations have already implemented the standard in previous months or even last year. This means ALL solid wood packaging MUST be either heat treated or methyl bromide fumigated, in accordance with the standard, and stamped with the IPPC Stamp. Failure to comply could cause your shipment to be re-exported at the importers' expense. (U.S. Policy) Some other countries will make you pay to have it treated at their borders,or will charge a hefty fee to separate the cargo from the packaging and/or re-package, also at the importers' expense.
Whatever action they take, it will all delay your shipments and could result in damage to your cargo or excessive additional shipping expense.

Tina Stafford, Operating Manager
Stafford Inspection & Consulting Services, LLC
(407) 380-7914

[BoxALot]

You know, I can't imagine in some of these countries that they would turn back the crates. I bet there's some guy at many of the port who's ready to get his palm greased so your stuff can get through.

I'm not saying don't HT and stamp your wood, but in case something slips through that doesn't get stamped or just doesn't get stamped right, it might be a good idea to have a GOOD relationship with a broker in the country and port that your shipment is going to.

[staffort]

Well,I certainly understand your sentiment and it probably does happen sometimes. It's up to the discretion of the receiving port authority, whether they wish to make an exception, and this program was never designed to hinder international trade. However, if I was a shipper, I wouldn't count on getting a lucky break!

Thanks for your input and have a great day.

[michaelbagchi]

Is there a sample of an application for the Stamp?

Mike