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What Is a Heat-treated Pallet

  • Writer: MMP Corporation
    MMP Corporation
  • Nov 20, 2025
  • 3 min read

Intercontinental shipping has existed ever since ships first sailed the seas. However, as more countries realized their agriculture's true economic value, many became concerned about infestations from foreign ports, risking the agricultural health of their nation. 


These countries sought to protect their agricultural economies by enacting regulations on the shipping practices of businesses that moved freight around the globe. 

Shipping companies came up with possible solutions to address the problem, and one of the most successful answers was heat-treating the wooden pallets used in the industry. 


As an innovative supplier of pallet wrapping plastic serving the shipping industry, MMP Corporation would like to share a deceptively simple solution to what could have become a major international problem. 


The “HT” indicates a pallet that has been heat-treated


Why Heat-Treat a Wooden Pallet?


Wooden pallets are among the most commonplace items in the shipping industry. Attributes include:


  • Inexpensive to build

  • Can be made from a wide variety of woods

  • Can withstand years of heavy use 


However, wood is an exceedingly porous material that's prone to insect infestation which in turn compromises its structure. Heat treating is a quick, inexpensive, and effective way to eliminate bugs and pests from wooden pallets. 


The Process of Heat-Treating


The recognized process of acceptable heat-treating uses 5 steps that include:


  • Wooden pallets, crates or boxes are put into a heat-treatment chamber

  • A hole is drilled into each item, and a temperature gauge is inserted. 

  • The chamber is closed, and the items are heated to an internal core temperature of 140 degrees Fahrenheit, or 60 degrees Celsius, ensuring all insects and larvae are killed.

  • Items remain in the chamber for at least 30 minutes

  • The chamber is turned off, and the items are removed.


One of the benefits of heat-treating is that it needs to be performed only once, unless the pallet is repaired with other wooden material. 


International shipping relies on heat-treated pallets

 The Benefits of Heat-Treating


Pallets that have been heat-treated benefit in other ways besides eliminating pests. These other benefits help increase the economic value of heat-treating.


  • Eliminating pests that live in and consume the pallet's organic material can extend its useful life.

  • When heat treating occurs, moisture is steamed out of the pallets, reducing the weight and reducing shipping costs.  

  • Shipping brand reputation is increased when customers know a company uses heat-treated pallets on all shipments. 


What is ISPM-15 Compliance?


ISPM-15, also known as International Standards for Phytosanitary Measures No. 15, is a set of regulations devised by the International Plant Protection Convention (IPCC) to safeguard indigenous species from foreign pest infestations.


Over 180 countries are complying with the regulations of ISPM-15, including:


  • Australia

  • Canada

  • China

  • EU Nations

  • India

  • New Zealand 

  • USA


The consequences of non-compliance have become so severe for a country's agricultural industry that it has become common practice to hold shipments at customs if heat-treatment stamps and certifications cannot be verified or are considered counterfeit. 


Non-compliance with the regulations of ISPM-15 can include supply chain disruptions and legal penalties. 


Partner with MMP Corp for Complete Packaging Solutions


MMP Corporation is a supplier of premium-grade stretch film solutions. We furnish several products within the shipping industry that enhance the shipper's ability to stabilize and protect the products being shipped. Our range of 8 stretch films complements heat-treated pallets perfectly, ensuring your international shipments arrive safely and intact.


Our products are often used on international routes, helping to secure the products whether they're being shipped by air or sea. 


Additionally, our products will arrive on ISPM-15-compliant, heat-treated pallets, free of bacteria and pests.


Customers can be sure that not only our products, but the pallets they’re delivered on will be of the highest quality and can be reused in accordance with international standards.  

Contact MMP Corp today to discover how quality stretch film products can enhance your company's packaging efficiency and provide the reliable protection your global shipments deserve.


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