Are Pallets Treated with Chemicals? Let’s Discuss
All About Chemical Pallets
If you’ve ever wondered whether the pallets carrying your products are treated with chemicals, you’re not alone. Businesses in food, beverage, pharmaceuticals, and export logistics ask this question often — and for good reason.
The safety, compliance, and environmental impact of your pallets can directly affect your supply chain and your customers. Let’s break down the facts about chemical pallets, treatment methods, and how to ensure you’re using the safest options for your operations.
Why Pallets Are Treated in the First Place
Pallet treatments aren’t always about adding chemicals — in many cases, they’re about prevention and compliance. Common reasons pallets are treated include:
Pest control for international shipping – Wood pallets moving across borders must meet the International Standards for Phytosanitary Measures No. 15 (ISPM-15) to prevent the spread of pests – this is done through heat treatment.
Mold and moisture control – Certain treatments help protect against mold growth, especially in humid environments – but it’s important to note that pallet storage conditions are equally as important when it comes to moisture control!
Extended durability – In some industries, treatment can help pallets better withstand challenging storage or transport conditions.
Types of Pallet Treatments
There are two primary categories of pallet treatments: heat-treated and chemically treated.
Heat-Treated Pallets
Heat-treated pallets are processed using high temperatures to eliminate pests and pathogens that might otherwise travel with the wood. This method does not involve chemicals, making it one of the safest and most environmentally friendly options available. Heat treatment is also a requirement for meeting ISPM-15 compliance in export shipments, ensuring the pallets can be used for international transport. These pallets are stamped with an “HT” mark, making them easy to identify in warehouses, shipping yards, and ports. Many businesses prefer heat-treated pallets not only for compliance but also for the added assurance of a chemical-free, food-safe option.
Chemically Treated Pallets
Chemically treated pallets, on the other hand, have historically involved processes like methyl bromide (MB) fumigation. While MB treatment was once common for meeting ISPM-15 requirements, it has been banned in many countries because of its harmful environmental effects. Today, chemical treatments are far less common, though some specialty pallets may still be treated with chemical dips or coatings to resist mold, moisture, or even fire in high-risk environments. These pallets must be clearly marked to indicate the type of treatment used, allowing buyers to make informed decisions about their safety and suitability for specific industries.
How to Identify a Chemical Pallet
Determining whether a pallet has been chemically treated starts with examining its markings.
The International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC) stamp is the most important identifier—it tells you not only that the pallet has been treated but also how.
For example, an “HT” stamp indicates heat treatment, while “MB” would signify methyl bromide fumigation (though you’re unlikely to see this today due to international restrictions).
In addition to the IPPC stamp, pallets may carry other markings or labels that indicate special coatings or chemical applications. If a pallet has no visible treatment markings, it is likely intended for domestic use only and may not meet the requirements for export.
For businesses operating in regulated industries, verifying these markings before use is essential to avoid compliance issues, protect product safety, and ensure smooth transport across borders.
Why Chemical Pallets Matter for Your Business
Choosing the right pallet treatment means protecting your products, employees, and customers. We get it, it’s a big deal!
In sensitive industries like food, pharmaceuticals, and personal care, using pallets free of harmful chemicals can help maintain product integrity and meet strict safety standards.
Olympic Forest Products’ Commitment to Safe Pallets
At Olympic Forest Products, we prioritize heat-treated, chemical-free wood pallets for our customers. We work only with trusted suppliers, regularly inspect our pallets, and ensure every shipment meets industry standards for safety and performance.
Whether you need standard GMA pallets or a custom design, we’ll help you choose the safest, most sustainable option for your supply chain.
Ready to source compliant pallets? Contact Olympic Forest Products to discuss your needs and request a quote today.
