D-98-08 
Entry Requirements for Wood Packaging Material into 
Canada  
Effective date: (to be determined)  9th version  
 
Subject  
This directive provides the requirements for the entry of all wood packaging material  (WPM) including 
dunnage, pallets , or crating made from wood and entering Canada from all areas except the continental 
United States (U.S.) . 
 
Revisions  
This revision includes specific import requirements for dunnage entering Canada via marine vessels. 
Non-compliant dunnage and ongoing dete ction of live pests in both wood packaging material and 
shipborne dunnage imported into Canada creates increased risk for the entry of injurious pests. A 
shipborne dunnage management  program has been developed and is described in this revision.  
 
This directive has been revised to reflect the amendments made to the International Standards for 
Phytosanitary Measures (ISPM) 15 regarding approved treatments associated with wood packaging 
material  and the mark and its application (see Appendix  1). The International Plant Protection Convention 
(IPPC) and its Commission on Phytosanitary Measures have adopted these revisions to provide further 
guidance to N ational Plant Protection Organization s (NPPO) . These changes were adopted in 2018 . 
 
This document supersedes all previous versions of directive D -98-08. 
 
 
Table of contents  
 
1 Legislative authority ................................ ................................ ................................ ........................  3 
2 Definitions, abbreviations and acronyms  ................................ ................................ .........................  3 
3 Introduction  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ .... 3 
4 Scope  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ..............  3 
4.1 Regulated pests  ................................ ................................ ................................ ........................  3 
4.2 Regulated articles  ................................ ................................ ................................ ....................  4 
4.2.1  Commodities that are exempt from phytosanitary import requirements  .............................  4 
4.3 Regulated Areas  ................................ ................................ ................................ ......................  4 
5 Phytosanitary entry requirements  ................................ ................................ ................................ ..... 4 
5.1.1  Wood packaging material certification system  ................................ ................................ .. 5 6 Specific phytosanitary entry requirements for shipborne dunnage  ................................ ....................  5 
6.1 Shipborne dunnage program  ................................ ................................ ................................ .... 5 
6.1.1  Notification requirements  ................................ ................................ ................................ . 5 
6.1.2 Permit to Import and preventive control plan  ................................ ................................ .... 6 
6.1.3  Discharge and monitoring  ................................ ................................ ................................  7 
6.1.4  High and low risk periods  ................................ ................................ ................................  7 
6.1.5 Storage requirements  ................................ ................................ ................................ ....... 7 
6.1.6  Movement requirements  ................................ ................................ ................................ ... 8 
6.1.7  Disposal or processing of shipborne dunnage  ................................ ................................ ... 9 
6.1.8  Records ................................ ................................ ................................ ........................... 10 
7 Inspection procedures  ................................ ................................ ................................ ..................... 10 
7.1 Wood p ackaging material, excluding shipborne dunnage  ................................ ........................ 10 
7.2 Shipborne dunnage inspection procedures  ................................ ................................ ............... 10 
7.2.1  Shipborne dunnage program ................................ ................................ ............................ 11 
7.2.2 Direct inspection of dunnage  ................................ ................................ ........................... 11 
8 Non-compliance  ................................ ................................ ................................ ............................. 12 
8.1 Wood packaging material, excluding shipborne dunnage  ................................ ........................ 12 
8.2 Shipborne dunnage  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................. 12 
8.2.1  Discharge of dunnage in Canada  ................................ ................................ ..................... 12 
8.2.2  Shipborne dunnage program ................................ ................................ ............................ 12 
9 References  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ .....12 
9.1 Fees ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ........ 12 
9.2 Supporting documents  ................................ ................................ ................................ ............ 13 
Appendix  1: Wood Packaging Material requirements for entry into Canada ................................ ............ 14 
Appendix 2: Approved disposal methods for wood packaging material and shipborne dunnage  .............. 17 
Appendix 3: CFIA Offices and Contact information  ................................ ................................ ............... 18 
Appendix 4: Conditions outlined in the Permit to Import issued for the shipborne dunnage program  ......19 
Appendix 5: Shipborne dunnage program: elements of a preventive control plan  ................................ ....20 
Appendix 6: Designated terminals and facilities under the shipborne dunnage program  .......................... 23 
Appendix 7: Application for the shipborne dunnage program  ................................ ................................ .24 
 
  1 Legislative authority  
Plant Protection Act  (S.C. 1990, c. 22)  
Plant Protection Regulations  (SOR/95 -212) 
Canadian Food Inspection Agency Fees Notice , Canada Gazette, Part I (as amended from time to time)  
2 Definitions, abbreviations and a cronyms  
Definitions for terms used in the present document can be found in the International Standard for 
Phytosanitary Measures 5: Glossary of phytosanitary terms   or in the  CFIA  Plant Health Glossary of 
Terms . 
3 Introduction  
The risk represented by wood packaging material and dunnage varies depen ding on the quality, 
conditioning , and degree of finishing of the wood. Many exotic plant pests have been intercepted on 
wood dunnage, pallets, crating , or other wood packaging material in North America. Examples of plant 
quarantine pests intercepted inclu de: Anoplophora chinensis, Anoplophora glabripennis, Ips typographus, 
Hylastes ater, Monochamus  sp., Trichoferus campestris  and others. The introduction into parts of North 
America of the Asian longhorned beetle ( Anoplophora glabripennis ), brown spruce lon ghorn beetle 
(Tetropium fuscum ), emerald ash borer ( Agrilus planipennis ), and other exotic pests can now be linked to 
international shipments containing wood packaging material.  
In 2009, the Commission on Phytosanitary Measures of the International Plant Protection Convention 
adopted a standard prescribing uniform regulatory control of wood packaging material moving in 
international commerce. This standard  titled: " ISPM  15, Regulation of Wood Packaging Material in 
International Trade " recognizes the inherent pest risks associated with the international movement of 
untreated wood packaging material. Although this standard does n ot obligate countries to establish 
regulatory controls, the guideline represents a mechanism by which any country may establish regulatory 
controls in a manner that is internationally harmonized. This Canadian import directive reflects the 
guidelines estab lished in  ISPM  15 as updated in 2018.  
In order to mitigate the entry of pests associated with non -compliant dunnage, the CFIA has established a 
new shipborne dunnage program providing specific requirements for the safe discharge and disposal of 
shipborne d unnage in all ports of Canada.  
4 Scope  
4.1 Regulated pests  
Numerous pests regulated by Canada could be associated with wood packaging material, including 
shipborne dunnage. Insects are the most commonly detected pests, but fungi and bacteria can also be 
associat ed with imported material.  The list of pests regulated by Canada  can be found on the CFIA 
website.  4.2 Regulated articles  
Wood packaging material constructed from the wood of any plant species not meeting the exemptions 
listed in section  4.2.1 .  
This includes, but is not limited to, dunn age, pallets, spacers, bearers, crating , and wood bracing not 
permanently attached  to freight vehicles or con tainers (for example: flat rack  and flatbed containers).  
Note:  WPM used for the transport of logs and lumber is also regulated by this policy.   
4.2.1 Commodities that are exempt from phytosanitary import requirements  
The following articles are considered to be a low risk and are exempt from the requirements of this 
directive:  
- wood packaging material made entirely from thin wood of 6  mm or less in thickn ess. 
- wood packaging material made entirely from processed wood such as plywood, particle board, 
oriented strand board , or veneer that has been created using glue, heat, pressure , or any 
combination thereof.  
- wood shavings, sawdust , and wood wool used to sta bilize a commodity.  
- Gift boxes for wine, cigars and other commodities made from wood that has been processed 
and/or manufactured in a way that renders it free of pests.  
- Barrels for wine and spirits that have be en heated during manufacturing.  Note: Not all barrels 
are exempt.   The requirements for the importation of decorative wood barrels are provided in 
directive D -02-12. 
- Wood components permanently attached to freight vehicles and containers.  
4.3 Regulated Areas  
All countries excluding the continental  United States.  
Note: Information on the implementation of ISPM No. 15 (2009) for wood packaging moving between 
Canada and  the United States  is maintained on the CFIA website.  
5 Phytosanitary entry r equirements  
All wood packaging material (WPM) must be constructed with debarked wood and treated using one of 
the approved methods listed in Appendix 1 . In addition, all WPM must bear a mark that meets the 
requirements as specified in Appendix 1  to be admissible into Canada.  
A phytosanita ry certificate is not required, but may be used in lieu of the marking system prescribed 
below. A Permit to Import is not required.  
 Note : By w ay of bilateral arrangement, a phytosanitary c ertificate is not accepted for the entry of wood 
packaging material originating from the People's Republic of China.  
5.1.1 Wood packaging material certification system  
The NPPO  of the country from which the wood packaging material originates must have a certific ation 
system in place for the approval and monitoring of facilities producing wood packaging material to meet 
ISPM 15 (2009).  
This certification system must ensure that the wood packaging material or wood used in the repair or 
remanufacture of wood packag ing material is treated in accordance with one of the methods specified in 
Appendix 1 .  
Facilities must be approved by the  NPPO  to affix a mark to the trea ted wood packaging material. The 
system of marking must conform to the specifications laid out in Appendix 1 . 
Many countries have indicated that they have  systems in place to meet Canada’s import  
requirements. Information about the implementation of ISPM 15: 2009 in other countries  
can be found at: https://www.ippc.int/en/countries/all/ispm15/ . 
 
The requirements for treatment and marking of wood packaging material that is reused,  
repaired or remanufactured are described in Section 4.3 of ISPM 15: 2009. Please consult  
the IPPC Web site at https://www.ippc.int/en/core -activities/standards -setting/ispms/  for up to date 
information.  
6 Specific phytosanitary entry requirements for shipborne dunnage  
All shipborne dunnage must be officially treated by one of the methods specifi ed in Appendix 1 , 
including debarking. A mark, officially endorsed by the  NPPO  of the country from which the dunnage 
originates, must be permanently affixed to each unit of dunnage (as described in Appendix 1 ). 
Shipborne dunnage discharged in Canada may only be done under the provisions of a Permit to Import 
and at designated terminals through the shipborne dunnage program, described below. A port terminal 
where shipborne dunnage is permitted to be discharged as per the shipborne dunnage program is called a 
“designated terminal” in this document.  
6.1 Shipborne dunnage program  
6.1.1 Notification requirements  
Prior to the vessel entering Canadian waters , the Canadian agent is responsib le for ensuring that the 
CFIA is notified of the vessel’s intentions to discharge shipborne dunnage while in Canada. The Canadian 
agent is responsible for ensuring that, where a marine vessel intends to discharge dunnage in Canada, 
notification is made to the CFIA office (as listed in Appendix 3 ) closest to the discharge port at least 96 
hours prior  to the vessel’s arrival in Canada.  
At the time of notification, the Master of a marine vessel, intending to discharge shipborne dunnage in  
Canada, must provide the following information to the CFIA, either directly, via the vessel’s Canadian 
agent, or the designated terminal : - Destination port, including terminal where applicable, in Canada  
- Estimated discharge date(s) of the dunnage  
- Country o f origin of the dunnage and cargo  
Discharge of shipborne dunnage is only permitted in designated terminals that are registered under the 
shipborne dunnage program. A list of designated terminals that can accept shipborne dunnage can be 
consulted in Appendix 6 . 
Important note for non -compliant shipborne dunnage:  The i mport of non-compliant dunnage in to  
Canada is a violation of Section  7 of the  Plant Protection Act (PPA) . Vessels with non -compliant 
dunnage on board will be considered non -compliant during the entire stay in Canada and may be subject 
to additional enforcement action.  
The CFIA has the authority to detain and order the discharge and disposal of non -compliant shipborne 
dunnage while in Canada.  
6.1.2 Permit to I mport and preventive control plan  
A Permit to I mport is required.  Any individual or corporation willing to take care or control of dunnage to 
be discharged at any given Canadian port t erminal can apply for a permit to import under the shipborne 
dunnage program.  
Applicants1 must apply for and receive a Permit to Import prior to shipborne dunnage being discharged at 
the corresponding  port terminal(s).  Details on the Permit to Import application process are available on 
the CFIA website at:  https://inspection.canada.ca/about -cfia/my -
cfia/eng/1482204298243/148220 4318353 . 
The shipborne dunnage program process is initiated when an application for a Permit to Import is 
submitted to the CFIA . 
As part of the Permit to Import issuance process, the applicant must develop a Preventive Control Plan 
(PCP) as described in  Appendix 5  of this directive, and submit it to the CFIA for review and approval.  
The Permit to Import will be issued once the CFIA has approved the PCP and the facility has passed an 
evaluation inspection  by CFIA , as described in section 7.2.1 . 
The PCP is a written document that demonstrates the system -based approach developed by the applicant 
to ensure that risks associated with shipborne dunnage are mitigated. The PCP shall include processes for 
receiving, inspecting, segregating, storing, moving, and ultimately disposing or processing of shipborne 
dunnage.  
The Permit to Import and the PCP must be reviewed and ren ewed each year. If the facility intends to 
make any significant changes to the processes, the PCP must be amended and submitted to the CFIA for 
review and approval prior to implementing the new procedures.  
The specific import conditions will be outlined on the Permit to Import as per Appendix 4 .  
                                                             
1 Applicants can be a Canadian individual, or in the case of a corporation with a place of business in Canada, an 
agent or officer of the corporation who resides in Canada.   6.1.3 Discharge and monitoring  
Visual monitoring and report ing 
Shipbo rne dunnage must be monitored to identify materials that do not meet the entry requirements as 
described in section 5. This includes, but is not limited to, dunnage that:  
- is missing the ISPM 15 mark (as per Appendix 1 ), unless a valid phytosanitary certificate was 
provided  
- has bark above the threshold (as per Appendix 1 ) 
- is found to have live pests or signs of live pests  
The PCP must describe how the dunnage will be visually monitored by trained staff at the time of 
discharge.   If non-compliant shipborne dunnage is found , the PCP must describe the process that will be 
followed to immediately notify the local CFIA office . The PCP must detail how the facility will segregate 
and identify the non -compliant dunnage. The non -compliant du nnage must be stored in a manner that will 
prevent escape of any pests, and allow for safe and efficient inspection by either the CFIA or the 
Canadian Border Services Agency (CBSA).  
Non-compliant dunnage will be disposed of according to the designated term inal’s PCP, or as otherwise 
specified by the CFIA inspector.  
Live pests or signs of live pests detected  
Where live pests or signs of live pests are found in association with shipborne dunnage, notification must 
be made immediately to the CFIA. The PCP must  specify the control measures that will be taken to avoid 
the escape or movement of injurious pests from the dunnage already discharged and from any dunnage 
still remaining on the vessel. Infested articles may be ordered to be treated prior to movement or disposal.  
6.1.4 High and low risk periods  
The high  risk period is  from March  1 to September  30 for British Columbia ports, and from March  15 to 
September  30 for other ports of Canada.  The rest of the year is considered as the low risk period.  Storage 
(section 6.1.5 ), movement (section 6.1.6 ), and disposal requirements (section 6.1.7 ) are dependant on the 
time of the year and location of the designated terminal.  
6.1.5 Storage requirements  
General requirements  
The PCP must describe how a ll discharged dun nage will be identified and segregated from any other 
wood material. Any wood material with unknown identity or that  has been co -mingled with discharged 
dunnage is considered to be discharged dunnage  and must be handled as such .  
Non-compliant shipborne dunnage must be stored in a manner to allow assessment by a CFIA or CBSA 
inspector.  Following assessment of the dunnage by the CFIA or CBSA, the dunnage may be handled 
according to the facility’s PCP for compliant materials, unless otherwise specified by the inspector.  Additional requirements for high risk period  
During the high risk period, all  discharged dunnage must be stored in a manner to avoid any pest escape 
at all times , other than when actively discharging .  The PCP must describe how dunnage will be secured 
during and after the discharge process.  
Secured shipborne dunnage must be disposed, processed, or transported to a disposal or processing 
facility within 72 hours of completion of discharge. If the storage container  is to be opened or accessed at 
any time a t the designated terminal, the PCP must describe the mitigation measures that will be taken to 
prevent  the escape of pests.  
Additional requirements for low risk period  
During the low risk period, high risk period storage requirements  are not mandatory . All dunnage 
discharged during the low risk period must however be completely disposed of or processed prior to the 
end of the low risk period.  
6.1.6 Movement requirements  
General requirements  
The m ovement of shipborne dunnage from the designated terminal is not permitted without prior written 
approval of the CFIA. The dunnage may only be transported  following the issuance of a domestic 
movement certificate (or other docume nt as determined by the CFIA) and under the conditions specified . 
The PCP must describe how the dunnage will be transported and in a manner to prevent the escape of 
pests.   
Traceability must be maintained at all times .  Dunnage must be identified and its l ocation known and 
recorded.  
A designated terminal may include a third party contractor for the transport of dunnage  in their PCP . The 
contractor will be subject to evaluation and inspection by the CFIA as part of the designated terminal PCP 
assessment . It is also possible for a third party contractor to be recognized  as a “designated transport 
company ” by submitting  an application form as per Appendix 7  with all required information . Designated 
transport companies  mentioned in the PCP of a designated terminal  are not considered as part of the PCP 
and will be inspect ed separately.  
Requirements for movement to a disposal or processing facility  
The dunnage must be transported directly to the site where disposal or processing is going to occur .  
During high risk period, shipborne dunnage must be transported in such a manner so as to avoid any pest 
escape during transport. During low risk period, s hipborne dunnage must be covered during transport so 
as to prevent spillage during transport.  
The PCP must describe how the transporter will  prevent the escape of pests in the event of an accident or 
other extraordinary incident during the transport of th e container from the designated terminal to the 
disposal or processing destination.  
Requirements for movement to other countries  Dunnage as a commodity  
Only dunnage that is marked and made of debarked wood according to ISPM 15 specificatio ns, found to 
be free from live  pests or signs of live  pests, and not co -mingled with non -compliant dunnage, may be 
shipped to another country. It is the exporter’s responsibility to ensure the dunnage would be admissible 
to the destination country.  
The CFIA wi ll not inspect or certify foreign origin dunnage for the purposes of re -export.  
During the high risk period, shipborne dunnage being shipped as a commodity must be secured on the 
vessel in a manner to prevent  the escape of pests until the vessel leaves Can adian waters. The PCP must 
describe how the designated facility will ensure that the dunnage is secured onboard the marine vessel 
while in Canadian waters.   
During the low risk period, shipborne dunnage being shipped as a commodity  does not n eed to be 
securely stored onboard provided the vessel leaves Canadian waters prior to the end of the low risk 
period. The PCP must describe how the designated facility will ensure that vessels with dunnage onboard 
will depart prior to the high risk period,  or ensure appropriate steps to secure the dunnage are followed 
where necessary.  
Dunnage reused as dunnage  
Dunnage cannot be reused as dunna ge during the high risk period.  It is possible during the low risk period 
following the same requirements as for dun nage as a commodity.  
Requirements for movement to another designated terminal  
Shipborne dunnage  may be moved to another designated terminal for further handling.  
During the high risk period, shipborne dunnage to be transported must be identified and secured in a 
manner to prevent pest escape at all times. During the low risk period, shipborne dunnage must be 
covered so as to avoid any spillage during transport.  
The shipborne dunnage must be visually monitored according to Section 6.1.3. before it is moved to the 
other designated terminal.  This monitoring cannot be deferred to the next designated terminal.  
The PCP of both designated terminal s must describe how  the dunnage will be stored at the destination 
terminal prior to disposal or processing (within 72 hours after completion of discharge).   
6.1.7 Disposal or processing of shipborne dunnage  
Discharged dunnage must be processed or disposed in a manner as described in Appendix 2 .  
 
Facilities that intend to dispose or process shipborne dunnage m ust be approved by the CFIA as a 
designated facility2. Designated terminals can also include the disposal or processing procedure in their 
own PCP.  
 
The disposal or processing facility must be capable of disposal or processing shipborne dunnage in a 
manner  that prevents the int roduction and spread of pests into Canada.  
                                                             
2 A list of designated facilities can be found in Appendix 6 . 
  
All shipborne dunnage must be identified and kept segregated from any other wood material at all times. 
Any wood material that is unidentified or has been co -mingled with shipborne dunnage must be disposed 
or processed in the same manner as the shipborne dunnage.  
 
During the high risk period   
Shipborne dunnage must be identified and stored in such a manner as to prevent any pest escape  until the 
time it is disposed of or processed. The time limit for storage should not exceed two (2) days  (48 hours)  
following receipt of the dunnage at the disposal or processing facility.  
During the low risk period   
Shipborne dunnage must be completely d isposed of or processed before the end of the low risk period.  
6.1.8 Records  
The PCP must detail all receiving , visual monitoring,  and shipping records, along with any other 
documents that directly pertain to the shipborne dunnage program.  Records must be maint ained by the 
designated facility for a period of two ( 2) years, and must be provided to a CFIA inspector upon request.  
7 Inspection procedures  
7.1 Wood packaging material, excluding shipborne dunnage  
Inspection of WPM may be done at the point of entry by CBSA , or at other locations by CFIA inspection 
staff. This inspection can be done separately or in conjunction with the import of other regulated 
commodities.  
The inspection will verify:   
- that required marks are applied or appropriate certification has been prov ided,  
- freedom from bark, presence of live pests or signs of live pests . 
7.2 Shipborne dunnage  inspection procedures  
All shipborne dunnage is subject to inspection  by CBSA or CFIA inspectors . The purpose of inspection is 
to verify:  
- that shipborne dunnage  is on ly discharged in terminals that are covered by valid import permits 
issued under the shipborne dunnage program.  
- that required marks are applied or appropriate certification has been provided,  
- freedom from bark, presence of live pests or signs of live pes ts. 7.2.1 Shipborne dunnage program  
CFIA inspectors will evaluate the Preventive Control Plan  (PCP) submitted by facilities applying to be a 
designated terminal, transporter or disposal/processing facility and will conduct an evaluation inspection  
to assess the proper application of the PCP.  
 
CFIA inspectors will conduct surveillance inspections  in designated terminals to assess adherence to the 
PCP during discharge of shipborne dunnage  at least two ( 2) times per year, with at least one ( 1) being 
performed during high risk period.  The inspection frequency may be increased if deemed necessary by 
the inspector.  Designated transport companies and designated processing/disposal facilities  are subject to 
the same inspection frequency . At least one (1) su rveillance inspection needs to be scheduled at the 
beginning of the high risk period to assess the proper transition from  the low risk period.  
 
CFIA inspectors will perform a n evaluation inspection  once a year to assess the proper application of the 
Permit  to Import  and the PCP.  Designated transport companies  and designated processing/disposal 
facilities will be inspect ed following the same rule. This system audit must cover the whole system, but it 
is possible to rely on the surveillance inspections  for some requirements if deemed appropriate.  
 
When a designated terminal reports non -compliant dunnage, the dunnage will be subject to additional 
inspection by the CFIA  or CBSA .  
7.2.2 Direct i nspection of dunnage  
Shipborne dunnage is only permitted to be discharged in Canada as per the shipborne dunnage program. 
However, under exceptional circumstances, s hipborne dunnage may be permitted to enter Canada without 
restrictions if it has been inspected by a CFIA or CBSA inspector and found compliant with section 5.   
Dunnage must:  
- be discharged in a  designated terminal.   
- be highly specialized or unique .  Rationale for the exemption is required . 
- be a small amount.  Whole vessel loads  cannot be inspected under this option.  
The designated terminal (or other responsible party) must also:  
- submit a request for inspection to the CFIA local office at least 72 hours (3 days) in advance.  
- present  the dunnage in a safe manner that allows a thorough  and efficient inspection.  
- ensure that the inspection is timed to occur immediately after discharge.  
- ensure that the whole load can be inspected.  
The CFIA may approve the request if all of the above conditions are met  and operational capa city allows 
for the inspection.  Other exceptional circumstances could be accepted on a case -by-case basis.  Fees for 
inspection will be charged  as per the Plant Protection Fees schedule . 8 Non-compliance  
The CFIA will follow the guiding principles in its  Compliance and Enforcement Policy  when informing 
regulate d parties, assessing and monitoring compliance , and responding to instances of non -compliance.  
Any costs incurred due to non-compliance or violation (disposition, removal, etc.) will be the 
responsibility of its owner , importer , or the person having posses sion, care , or control of it.  
Notifications of non -compliance will be issued in accordance with D -01-06: Canadian Phytosanitary 
Policy for the Notification of Non -compliance and Emergency Action.   
8.1 Wood packaging material, excluding shipborne dunnage  
WPM th at is missing the required marks, is not made of debarked wood, or found to have live pests or 
signs of live pests  is considered to be non -compliant.  Where CBSA finds the WPM non -compliant at the 
time of entry into Canada, the guidelines as specified in Sections 41 -50 of Memorandum D19 -1-1 will be 
followed. Where CFIA f inds non -compliant WPM, the material may be ordered treated prior to disposal 
or removal from Canada.  
8.2 Shipborne dunnage  
8.2.1 Discharge of dunnage in Canada  
Importing  dunnage into Canada that does not comply with the phytosanitary requirements as listed in 
Appendix 1 , or discharging  dunnage in ports, terminals, or locations that are not designated under the 
shipborne dunnage program are considered to be violations of section 7 of the Plant Protection Act . 
Violations of the Plant Protection Act  are subject to compliance and enforcemen t controls, including 
monetary penalties. Dependant on the type of violation, the vessel, the Agent, or the designated terminal 
may be identified as the responsible party.  
8.2.2 Shipborne dunnage program  
For designated terminals, the Per mit to Import may be cancelled if the terminal is found not to be in 
compliance with any one of the conditions set out in the ir Permit to Import or the Plant Protection Act 
and Regulations .  
Designated terminals, transporters and disposal/processing facili ties may be removed from the program if 
found not to be in compliance with any one of the conditions set out in the shipborne dunnage program or 
the Plant Protection Act  and Regulations . 
9 References  
9.1 Fees  
The CFIA  charges fees in accordance with the  Canadian  Food Inspection Agency Fees Notice , which 
may also be collected by the CBSA . For information regarding fees associated with imported product, please contact the  Import Service Center  (ISC). Anyone requiring other information regarding fees may 
contact their  local  CFIA  office  or visit the Fees Notice  webpage.  
9.2 Supporting documents  
- IPPC secretariat. 2018.  Regulation of Wood Packaging Material in International Trade  (2009) 
with modifications to Annex 1 and 2 (2018) . International Standard for Phytosanitary Measures 
No. 15. Rome. FAO on behalf of the Secretariat of the International Plant Protection Convention.  
- IPPC Secretariat. 2021. Glossary of phytosanitary terms.  International Standard for Phytosanitary 
Measures No. 5. Rome. FAO on behalf of the Secretariat of the Internati onal Plant Protection 
Convention.  
- Canadian Food Inspection Agency. Plant health glossary of terms .  Ottawa.  
- Canadian Food Inspect ion Agency.  2017.  D-02-12, Phytosanitary Import requirements for non -
processed wood and other wooden products, bamboo and bamboo  products originating from all 
areas other than the continental United States . Ottawa.  
- Canadian Food Inspection Agency . 2015 . D-13-01: Canadian Heat Treated Wood Products 
Certification Program (HT Program) .  Ottawa.  
- Canadian Border Service Agency. 201 9. Memorandum D19 -1-1 (Food, plants, animal and related 
products). Ottawa.  
Note: The requirements for the importation of forest products other than wood packaging  material and 
dunnage (including lumber, decorative wood items, etc.) are provided in directive D -02-12. 
 
  Appendix 1: Wood Packaging Material requirements for entry into Canada  
 
Use of debarked wood  
 
Irrespective of the type of treatment applied, wood packaging material , including dunnage,  must be made 
of debarked wood. For th e purpose of th is directive,  any number of visually separate and clearly distinct 
small pieces of bark may remain on debarked wood if they are:  
 
- less than 3 cm in width (regardless of the le ngth); or  
- greater than 3 cm in width, with the total surface area of an individual piece of bark less than 50 
square cm.  
 
 
Approved methods of treatment  
 
Accepted treatments are those listed in annex 1 of IPSM 15. At time of publication of this directive, 
accepted treatments were as below. Please refer to annex 1 of ISPM 15 for details regarding these 
treatments.    
 
- Heat Treatment using a conventional steam  or kiln -dry heat chamber  
- Heat treatment using a dielectric heating  
- Fumigation using methyl bromide  
- Fumigation using sulphuryl fluoride  
 
Treatments cannot be inspected directly, but can be assessed by verifying the mark or can be denied if 
live pests or signs of live pests are detected.  
 
Marking of treated wood p ackaging material  
Wood packaging material that has been treated by one of the methods specified above and in a manner 
that is officially endorsed by the  NPPO  of the country from which the wood packaging material originates 
may be permitted entry into Canada provided the wood packaging material is marked as per annex 2 of 
ISPM 15. Examples of acceptable mar ks are provided in figure 1.  
 
1. The mark must at minimum include:  
The IPPC symbol for treated wood packaging material (as per Annex 2 of the “International 
Standard for Phytosanitary Measures No. 15, (2009) Regulation of Wood Packaging  
Material in Internati onal Trade ”) as reproduced here .  
 
- The design of the symbol must be presented to the left of the other components.  
 
- The country code (XX). The country code must be the International Organization for 
Standardization  (ISO) two -letter country code for the country in which the wood packaging 
material is produced. It must be separated by a hyphen from the producer/treatment provider 
code.  
 
- The producer/treatment provider code (000). The producer/treatment provider code i s a unique 
code assigned by the NPPO to the producer of the wood packaging material or the treatment 
provider who applies the marks or the entity otherwise responsible to the NPPO for ensuring that 
appropriately treated wood is used and properly marked. Th e number and order of digits and/or 
letters are assigned by the NPPO.  
 
- The treatment code (YY). The treatment code is an IPPC abbreviation fo r the approved measure 
used (for example  HT for heat treatment or MB for methyl bromide fumigation ). The treatment 
code must appear after the combined country and producer/treatment provider codes. It must 
appear on a separate line from the country code and producer/treatment provider code, or be 
separated by a hyphen if presented on the same line as the other codes.  
 
2. Other information (for example:  control numbers) may also be included provided it is not 
confusing, misleading, or deceptive. Such information may be provided adjacent to but outside of 
the border of the mark.  
 
3. The mark must be:  
 
- legible (illegible marks are considered non -compliant)  
- durable and not transferable (tags are not allowed)  
- rectangular or square in shape and contained within a border line with a vertical line 
separating the symbol from the code components   
- placed in a location that is visible when the wood packaging material is in use, preferably on 
at least two opposite sides of the wood packaging unit  
- the mark must not be hand drawn.  
  
4. Where very small pieces are subsequently cut for use as dunnage, the cuts should be made so that 
an entire mark is present on the dunnage used . 
 
  Figure 1. Examples of acceptable variants of the required components of the mark . 
   
 
XX – 000 
YY  
 
 
XX - 
000 
YY 
 
 
XX – 000 - YY  
 
 
XX – 000 
YY  
 
 
XX - 
000 
YY 
 
XX – 000 - YY 
 
 
Appendix 2: Approved disposal methods for wood packaging material  and 
shipborne dunnage  
 
All wood packaging material (WPM) and discharged dunnage  
 
The following methods may be used to dispose or process all WPM and  discharged shipborne dunnage:  
 
- incineration.  
- burial to a depth of no less than two metres at a CF IA-approved landfill and must be covered 
immediately.  
- Industrial processing using glue, heat, pressure and any combination thereof that render the 
end product  a negligible risk , such as wood dust, plywood, particle board, oriented strand 
board or veneer.  
 
Wood chipping  is not an approved method of disposal due to the risk of pathogens, bacteria, or viruses 
that could be present. Chipping can be included as a step in the disposal or processing procedure, but 
must be treated or disposed as described above.  
   
Other dispos al methods may be accepted by CFIA on a case -by-case basis.      
 
 
Inspected and compliant shipborne dunnage only  
 
Under the authorization of the CFIA,  shipborne dunnage that has been found compliant as per section 5 
may be permitted to be completely remanufactured  in a facility certified under D -13-01. The dunnage will 
be subject to heat treatment  (using the approved treatment schedule for hardwood).  
   
Segregation and identification is required at all times.  
 
  Appendix 3: CFIA Offices and Contact information  
CFIA offices coordinates can be found on our webpage:  
Contact a CFIA office by telephone - Canadian Food Inspection Agency (canada.ca)  
 
  Appendix 4: Conditions outlined in the Permit to Import issued for the shipborne 
dunnage program  
 
Destinations  
(Permits can combine more than one terminal of the same port, but cannot combine terminals from 
different ports.)  
 
Selected conditions  
SHIPBORNE DUNNAGE (ALL SPECIES)  
- The phytosanitary certifica te is not required.  
 
Additional Conditions  
SHIPBORNE DUNNAGE (ALL SPECIES)  
- The import permit holder must have a Preventive Control Plan (PCP). The PCP must be approved 
by the CFIA and the PCP must be implemented prior to the discharge of shipborne dunnage.  
- The import permit holder must meet all the requirements as outlined in the D -98-08 and must 
follow its CFIA -approved PCP at all times.  
- The import permit holder must verify that all shipborne dunnage discharged at their facility is 
marked a ccording  to ISPM 15 requirements ,  made of debarked wood , and does not contain any 
live pests or signs of live  pests.   
- The import permit holder must report incidences of non-compliant shipborne dunnage to the 
CFIA immediately.   
- The import permit holder must imme diately  implement their specified control measures  as per its 
PCP if live  pests  or signs of live pests  are detected.  
- Shipborne dunnage must be processed or disposed o f as per the PCP.  
 
  Appendix 5: Shipborne dunnage program: elements of a preventive control plan  
Whether a designated terminal, a designated transport facility or a designated disposal/processing facility, 
each facility involved in the shipborne dunnage program must  include the following elements in its PCP. 
Annex B of the Integrated Agency Inspection Model  has been used to  provide this guide and can be 
consulted for more details . 
 
Element 1: Process Control  
Import control  
The PCP must describe t he control measures used by the designated facility to verify that discharged 
dunnage meets ISPM 15 requirements and CFIA’s import requirements  
Product control  
Designated terminals, tran sporters and disposal/processing facilities will describe how the dunnage will 
be processed to mitigate the risk of the spread of pests . 
 
Element 2: Biosecurity control  
Disposal or processing of shipbo rne dunnage  
The PCP must indicate how the discharged shipborne dunnage will be disposed of or processed as per 
section 6.1.7 .  If procedures vary from high to low risk period, the PCP must explain the differences and 
how the transition is made .   
Designated disposal or processing facilit ies must submit their own PCP  describing all aspects of the 
disposal or processing procedure. All designated port terminals where shipborne dunnage is received 
from must be listed in the PCP. If procedures vary from one terminal of origin to  another, the PCP must 
explain what are the  differences and how these differences are operated.  
Designated t erminals that use a designated facility for the disposal or processing of shipborne dunnage 
may reference the PCP of the designated facility in the disposal section of their own PCP. How the 
facilities will c ommunicat e with each other must be de scribed in both PCPs .  
 
Element 3: Employee training  
All employees who are involved in the shipborne dunnage program must be trained in the delivery of this 
program  and the content of the PCP they must  apply to fulfill their respective responsibilities.  
The PCP must indicate:  
- The training material that is provided to the employees.  
- How the effectiveness of the training is monitored, verified, and maintained for all employees 
involved.  
- Record of employee s that have received training.  
 Element 4: Equipment design and maintenance  
The PCP must detail the type of equipment used to store, move or dispose/process the dunnage. 
Equipment must be maintained so as to meet requirements outlined in the shipborne dunnage program.  
 
Element 6: Receiving, transportation, and storage  
Rece ipt, inspection  and storage of shipborne dunnage  
If applicable, the PCP must detail how the CFIA will be notified of incoming shipborne dunnage as per 
section 6.1.1 . The PCP must indicate how shipborne dunnage will be discharged  and visually monitored  
as per section 6.1.3 , as well as where and how it will be stored and secured  as per section  6.1.5 . The use 
of plans are suggested. Traceability and segregation3 procedures must be detailed.  Where procedures vary 
from high to low risk period, the PCP must explain the differences and how the  transition is managed . 
Transport of shipborne dunnage  
The PCP must cover the transport of dunnage from the loading  of the stored dunnage on the transport 
vehicle to the unloading of the shipment at destination.  The PCP must indicate how this will be done as 
per section  6.1.6  and must include a contingency plan to prevent the escape of pes ts in the event of an 
accident.  If procedures vary from high to low risk period, the PCP must explain the differences and how 
the transition is operated.   
Movement to other countries, to other certified terminals or to disposal/processing facilities must be 
detailed in separate sections.  
Where not covered by a designated terminal, transport companies  must submit their own PCP covering all 
aspects of the transport procedure.  If a designated company  is transporting shipborne dunnage for more 
than one port terminal, each terminal should be  covered in a separate section.  Terminals using a 
designated company  for the transport of shipborne dunnage can refer to the PCP of the designated 
company  in the transport section of their own PCP. How the facilities will c ommunicat e with each other 
must be d escribed in both PCPs . 
 
Element 7: Traceability and control  
Traceability  
The facility has to  include how each occurrence of discharge of dunnage is traceable at each step of the 
process in the PCP.  
Control  
The PCP must describe how the facility will respond to  a pest detection  as per section 6.1.3 . 
                                                             
3 Segregation is only required if remanufacture of dunnage is planned (see section 6.1.7 ) Verification procedures  
The PCP must detail an internal verification procedure to ensure that the measures included  in the PCP 
are followed. The PCP must identify a responsible person to conduct the verification and verification 
frequency.  
The PCP must also describe what steps will be taken following a deviation from the PCP: correcting the 
situation, determining the c ause, and preventing reoccurrence.  
Records  
Records are evidence that the facility has implemented the preventive controls and that they are effective 
to meet the phytosanitary requirements. The facility must make them a vailable for review by the CFIA.  
The facility will need to identify records and documents associated with each element, and retain them for 
a period of two years. Some examples may include:  
- Records of discharged dunnage in port terminals.  
- Records of shipborne dunnage visual monitoring . 
- Transport/shipping records.  
- Receiving records.  
- Domestic movement certificates and Permit to I mport.  
- Verification of procedures.  
- Deviations and corrective actions taken.  
- Management review.  
Amendment procedure for the PCP  
The PCP should be reviewed on an ongoing basis by the facility staff to ensure that it properly details the 
procedures and processes in place, and that it effectively addresses the risk associated with shipborne 
dunnage. Minor changes to the PCP may be don e at any time, major changes to the PCP that impact the 
integrity of the program must be submitted to the CFIA for review and approval prior to implementation.  
The PCP must have an amendment recor d. 
 
  Appendix 6 : Designated terminals and facilities under  the shipborne dunnage 
program  
Link to CFIA webpage  (to be added) with lists of designated facilities : designated terminals and 
designated transport or disposal/processing facilities   Appendix 7: Application for the shipborne dunnage program  
 
Name of the facility :  __________________________________________________  
Address :  _________________________________________________________  
Contact person : _______________________  title: ___________________________  
Phone: ___________________________  email: __________________________  
 
I, ___________________________, the owner/person in possession, care or control of the above 
named facility, apply to the shipborne dunnage program as detailed in D -98-08 to be recognized as a:  
  designated terminal: loca tion and identification of terminal(s) ____________________________ 
______________________________________________________________________________  
  designated transport company  
  designated processing or disposal facility  
 
By submitting and signing this  application form, I hereby accept the facility to be added on any publically 
available lists of designated facilities, including CFIA’s webpage.  
_____________________________________   __________________________________  
Name of the contact person       signature and date  
 
(TO BE COMPLETED BY CFIA)  
  The facility has submitted a preventive control plan (PCP) that has been approved by the CFIA.  
  The facility has been inspected by the CFIA and is in good standing with the shipborne dunnage 
program.  
  The facility can be considered as a designated facility as mentioned above and can be added to 
the corresponding official list.   
 
______________________________________   ____________________________________  
Name of the CFIA regional program officer     signature and date