Marks & treatment

How do I read an ISPM 15 mark?

By PalletChecker · AI-assisted, source-linked guidance

Reviewed 2026-10-05 · verified standard

Applies to: International standard; national programme and destination checks

Look for the IPPC symbol, two-letter country code, authorised producer/treatment-provider identifier and treatment abbreviation. These identify the approved marking system; they are not a load rating.

Read each part separately

The country code identifies the country responsible for the authorised marking system. The adjoining identifier relates to an approved producer or treatment provider. The treatment abbreviation identifies the approved treatment. A country code does not establish timber origin, ownership or load capacity.

Illustrative code: ES–12345 HT

In this invented teaching example, ES means Spain, 12345 stands in for an authorised identifier and HT indicates heat treatment. It is not a usable mark or a way to validate a real provider. Inspect the complete actual mark and consult the relevant national programme when validation is needed.

What a photograph should show

Capture the whole mark clearly, the pallet’s overall condition and any repairs or additional marks. A partial code cannot establish compliance. Check destination requirements separately and do not use an ISPM 15 mark as proof of food hygiene or mechanical strength.

Teaching example only — not a valid IPPC mark

ES: Country code: Spain
12345: Illustrative authorised-provider identifier
HT: Treatment code: heat treatment

A real compliant mark also includes the IPPC symbol and prescribed format. Check the complete mark against the standard.

What to check next

Record the complete mark.

Sources

ISPM 15 Annex 2: the mark and its application

How we research and review answers