The fact that a lot of people are now using wood crates and pallets to ship their items domestically or internationally is a great thing, because that means that we’re actually starting to acknowledge the fact that we all need to be more ecologically aware.
However, there are certain factors affecting these crates and pallets, which is why the wood industry chooses to use heat treatment capabilities, an environmentally friendly way to destroy harmful pests from wood and a completely effective method of complying with ISPM 15 standards.
One instance in the past that convinced the wood industry to have wooden crates and pallets heat treated was the Formosan termite incident. This was native to East Asia but spread to the United States in the 1940s with wooden shipping crates. They spread rapidly in all the humid areas and now present a threat to all wooden buildings and structures, as termites strive for products that are made of wood.
What is the Heat Treatment Process?
Heat treatment is a non-chemical process to kill and prevent pests in wood. Heat treatment ensures that all materials are treated properly inside and out. The thermal modification ensures the wood’s resistance to rot or fungal decay.
The heat treatment process includes putting wooden crates and pallets in a special chamber where they are heated until the core reaches a temperature of 56 Celsius (132.8 Fahrenheit). Before cooling down, it must remain at this temperature for at least 30 minutes. When this process is complete, a mark of compliance with the ISPM 15 requirements is stamped on it.
Advantages of Heat Treatment
This heat treatment process is beneficial in a number of ways.
Eco-Friendliness
Keeping the core heated for 30 minutes ensures all insects and larvae are killed off. When wood that is imported is not heat treated, it is at high risk of carrying pests that can affect trees and plants that might not have the ability to survive the disease of non-native insects. This process protects forests and other crops around the world from being infested with these termites when wood packages are delivered.
Minimize Chemical-Related Health Risks
Heat treatment also kills any possible chemical or food residue that may remain from previous usage. It reduces the risk of chemical-related hazards for the manufacturers as well as shipping personnel.
International Standard
First, it is a necessary thing to comply with, as it has long been an international standard in the United States. This standard is what we call ISPM-15 and is strictly enforced to ensure safety and health. Every heat-treated item has the mark of compliance stamped on it. Not having done so will cause you inconvenience by having your shipment quarantined at international ports of entry.
Save on Shipping Costs
Heat-treated wood pallets and crates actually weigh less than those that are not treated due to the reduction, if not complete elimination, of moisture content from the wood. This can save you a lot of money in shipping fees.
Longer Shelf Life
Because of heat treatment, the wood is preserved, adding longevity and quality. The composition and properties of wood are altered by heat treatment, robbing it of its ability to decompose even when exposed to moisture and intense humidity. These woods become immune to bacteria and other microorganisms that would otherwise increase the risk of rotting.
At Aircraft Crating Inc., we work with the best wood craters in the industry, and we are happy to share our expertise. We do not just deliver your items safely and securely; we also ensure that our wood packaging materials are environmentally and health-friendly by complying with the ISPM-15 Standards. Contact us now! Call us at (818) 361-0076 or email us at aircraftcratinginc@gmail.com. You may also visit our office at 12355 Gladstone Ave., Sylmar, CA 91342.