CITES I-II-III Timber Species 

Manual
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First Edition Issued 2010
03/2022-78 CITES Timber Species Manual TOC-1

CITES Timber 

Species Manual

Contents

Figures LOF-1

Tables LOT-1

Introduction 1-1

Importation of CITES Timber Species 2-1

Re-exportation of CITES Timber Species 3-1

Violations, Seizures, and Forfeitures 4-1

Designated CITES Ports 5-1

CBP AI CITES Port Contacts 6-1

CITES Timber Species Common Names 7-1

Appendix A, Forms and Permits A-1

Appendix B, Conference Resolutions B-1

Appendix C, Conversion Formulas C-1

Appendix D, Harmonized System of the World D-1

Appendix E, Wood Identification E-1

Glossary Glossary-1

Index Index-1
TOC-2 CITES Timber Species Manual 03/2022-78
03/2022-78 CITES Timber Species Manual LOF-1

CITES Timber 

Species 

Manual

Figures

Figure A-1 Example of Request for Services to Transport, Store, and/or 

Dispose of Seized or Forfeited Shipments A-4

Figure A-2 Example of Standard CITES Form (front) (Annex 2, Conference 

Resolution 12.3 (Rev. CoP15) A-9

Figure A-3 Example of Standard CITES Form (back) (Conf. Resolution 

12.3 Rev. CoP15) A-10

Figure A-4 Information That Should be Included in CITES Permits and 

Certificates (Annex 1 to Conference Resolution 12.3 (Rev. 

CoP15) A-11

Figure A-5 Example of a CITES Traveling-Exhibition Certificate 

(CoP15) A-12

Figure A-6 Example of a CITES Traveling-Exhibition Certificate (back) 

(CoP15) A-13

Figure A-7 Example of a CITES Traveling-Exhibition Certificate 

Continuation Sheet (CoP15) A-14

Figure A-8 Example of FWS CITES Special Permit Condition A-15

Figure A-9 Example of FWS Re-export Certificate Cover Letter to 

Permittee A-16

Figure A-10 Example of FWS CITES Other Certificate (Pre-Convention) 

(printed on security paper) A-17

Figure A-11 Example of USFWS Form 3-201A, CITES Re-export Certificate 

(with Special Conditions) A-18

Figure A-12 Example of PPQ Form 518, Report of Violation A-20

Figure A-13 Example of PPQ Form 621, Application for Protected Plant 

Permit to Engage in the Business of Importing, Exporting, or Reexporting Terrestrial Plants A-25

Figure A-14 Example of a Protected Plant Permit (ePermits) A-27

Figure A-15 Example of PPQ Form 623, Waiver of Forfeiture Procedures by 

Owner of Seized Property Valued at $10,000 or Less A-29

Figure A-16 Example of PPQ Form 624, Notice for Seizure and Proposed 

Forfeiture of Property Valued at $10,000 or Less (Part 1; Parts 

2 through 4 are duplicates) A-32

Figure A-17 Example of PPQ Form 624, Notice for Seizure and Proposed 

Forfeiture of Property (Part 5-PPQ/CBP Port Worksheet) A37

Figure A-18 Example of PPQ Form 624A, Notice for Seizure of Property 

Valued Greater Than $10,000 

(Part 1; Parts 2 through 4 are duplicates) A-41

Figure A-19 Example of PPQ Form 624A, Notice for Seizure of Property 

Valued Greater Than $10,000 
Figures

LOF-2 CITES Timber Species Manual 03/2022-78

(Part 5-PPQ/CBP Port Worksheet) A-45

Figure A-20 Example of PPQ Form 625, Claim and Bond A-48

Figure A-21 Example of PPQ Form 626, Petition for Remission or Mitigation 

of Forfeiture A-50

Figure A-22 Example of PPQ Form 627, Declaration of Forfeiture (for 

forfeitures valued at $10,000 or less) A-53

Figure B-1 Excerpt from CITES Conference Resolution 10.13 (Rev. 

CoP15), Implementation of the Convention for Timber Species 

(page 1 of 2) B-2

Figure B-2 Excerpt from CITES Conference Resolution 10.13 (Rev. 

CoP15) (continued page 2 of 2) B-3

Figure B-3 Excerpt from CITES Conference Resolution 12.3 (Rev. CoP15), 

Permits and Certificates 

(page 1 of 12) B-5

Figure B-4 Excerpt from CITES Conference Resolution 12.3 (Rev. CoP15), 

Permits and Certificates (page 2 of 12) B-6

Figure B-5 Excerpt from CITES Conference Resolution 12.3 (Rev. CoP15), 

Permits and Certificates (page 3 of 12) B-7

Figure B-6 Excerpt from CITES Conference Resolution 12.3 (Rev. CoP15), 

Permits and Certificates (page 4 of 12) B-8

Figure B-7 Excerpt from CITES Conference Resolution 12.3 (Rev. CoP15), 

Permits and Certificates (page 5 of 12) B-9

Figure B-8 Excerpt from CITES Conference Resolution 12.3 (Rev. CoP15), 

Permits and Certificates (page 6 of 12) B-10

Figure B-9 Excerpt from CITES Conference Resolution 12.3 (Rev. CoP15), 

Permits and Certificates (page 7 of 12) B-11

Figure B-10 Excerpt from CITES Conference Resolution 12.3 (Rev. CoP15), 

Permits and Certificates (page 8 of 12) B-12

Figure B-11 Excerpt from CITES Conference Resolution 12.3 (Rev. CoP15), 

Permits and Certificates (page 9 of 12) B-13

Figure B-12 Excerpt from CITES Conference Resolution 12.3 (Rev. CoP15), 

Permits and Certificates (page 10 of 12 B-14

Figure B-13 Excerpt from CITES Conference Resolution 12.3 (Rev. CoP15), 

Permits and Certificates (page 11 of 12) B-15

Figure B-14 Excerpt from CITES Conference Resolution 12.3 (Rev. CoP15), 

Permits and Certificates (page 12 of 12) B-16

Figure B-15 Annex 1, Information That Should Be Included in CITES Permits 

and Certifications B-17

Figure B-16 Annex 2, Standard CITES Form (CoP15) (front) B-18

Figure B-17 Annex 2, Standard CITES Form (CoP15) (back) B-19

Figure C-1 Formula to Convert Board Feet of Lumber to Cubic Meters C1

Figure C-2 Formula to Convert Cubic Feet of Lumber to Cubic Meters C2

Figure C-3 Formula to Convert Volume of a Cylinder in Inches to Cubic 

Meters C-3

Figure C-4 Formula to Convert Volume of Cylinder to Cubic Inches C-3

Figure C-5 Formula for Volume of a Log C-4
Figures

03/2022-78 CITES Timber Species Manual LOF-3

Figure C-6 Formula to Convert Square Feet of Veneer to Square 

Meters C-5

Figure C-7 Formula to Convert Square Meters of Veneer to Cubic 

Meters C-5

Figure C-8 Formula to Convert Cubic Feet of Veneer to Cubic Meters C6

Figure E-1 Example of Abies guatemalensis (Guatemalan fir) Wood Cross 

Section E-3

Figure E-2 Example of Araucaria araucana (Monkey puzzle tree) Wood 

Cross Section E-4

Figure E-3 Example of Caryocar costaricense (Ajillo) Wood Cross 

Section E-5

Figure E-4 Example of Cedrela odorata (Spanish cedar) Wood Cross 

Section E-6

Figure E-5 Example of Dalbergia nigra (Brazilian rosewood) Wood Cross 

Section E-7

Figure E-6 Dalbergia nigra (Brazilian rosewood) Rough Sawn Lumber E8

Figure E-7 Dalbergia nigra (Brazilian rosewood) Rough Sawn Lumber E8

Figure E-8 Example of Fitzroya cupressoides (Alerce) Wood Cross 

Section E-10

Figure E-9 Example of Gonystylus spp. (Ramin) Wood Cross Section E11

Figure E-10 Example of Guaiacum officinale (Commoner lignum vitae) 

Wood Cross Section E-12

Figure E-11 Example of Guaiacum sanctum (Holy lignum vitae) Wood 

Cross Section E-12

Figure E-12 Example of Magnolia liliifera var. obovata (Ramin) Wood Cross 

Section E-14

Figure E-13 Example of Oreomunnea pterocarpa (Gavilan [Walnut]) Wood 

Cross Section E-15

Figure E-14 Example of Pericopsis elata (Afrormosia) Wood Cross 

Section E-16

Figure E-15 Example of Platymiscium pleiostachyum (Cristobal, Granadillo) 

Wood Cross Section E-17

Figure E-16 Example of Podocarpus neriifolius (Podocarp) Wood Cross 

Section E-18

Figure E-17 Example of Podocarpus parlatorei (Parlatore’s podocarp) Wood 

Cross Section E-19

Figure E-18 Example of Pterocarpus santalinus (Red sandalwood, 

Redsanders) Wood Cross Section E-20

Figure E-19 Example of Swietenia humilis (Pacific Coast mahogany) Wood 

Cross Section E-21

Figure E-20 Example of Swietenia macrophylla (Bigleaf mahogany) Wood 

Cross Section E-22

Figure E-21 Swietenia macrophylla (bigleaf mahogany) Lumber E-23

Figure E-22 Swietenia macrophylla (bigleaf mahogany) Lumber E-23
Figures

LOF-4 CITES Timber Species Manual 03/2022-78

Figure E-23 Swietenia macrophylla (bigleaf mahogany) Lumber E-24

Figure E-24 Swietenia macrophylla (bigleaf mahogany) Lumber E-24

Figure E-25 Example of Swietenia mahogani (Caribbean mahogany) Wood 

Cross Section E-25
03/2022-78 CITES Timber Species Manual LOT-1

CITES Timber 

Species 

Manual

Tables

Table 1-1 How to Use Decision Tables 1-6

Table 1-2 Reporting Problems With or Suggestions for the CITES I-II-III 

Manual 1-9

Table 2-1 Summary of Procedures for Handling the Importation of CITES 

Appendix I, Appendix II, and Appendix III Protected Timber 

Species 2-4

Table 2-2 List of PPQ Area Identifiers Specializing in CITES Wood 

Identification 2-11

Table 2-3 List of Other Identifiers Specializing in CITES Wood 

Identification 2-11

Table 2-4 Determine if a Timber Species Is Regulated by CITES Appendix 

I, Appendix II, or 

Appendix III 2-12

Table 2-5 Determine Which Documents Are Needed for the Importation of 

CITES Appendix I Timber Species 2-30

Table 2-6 Determine Which Documents Are Needed for the Importation of 

CITES Appendix II Regulated Timber Species 2-33

Table 2-7 Determine Which Documents Are Needed for the Importation of 

CITES Appendix III Timber Species 2-68

Table 2-8 Instructions for CITES Permit or Certificate Validation 2-98

Table 2-9 Specimen Source Codes on CITES Documents 2-101

Table 2-10 List of Commodities and Corresponding Units of Measure 2-

106

Table 2-11 Determine the Quantity of a Representative Unit for 

Inspection 2-107

Table 2-12 Determine Action Based on Inspection Results 2-108

Table 3-1 Summary of Procedures for Handling the Re-exportation of 

CITES Appendix I, Appendix II, and Appendix III Regulated 

Timber Species 3-4

Table 3-2 List of PPQ Area Identifiers Specializing in CITES Wood 

Identification 3-11

Table 3-3 Determine if a Timber Species Is Regulated by CITES Appendix 

I, Appendix II, or 

Appendix III 3-13

Table 3-4 Determine Which Documents Are Needed for the Reexportation of CITES Appendix I Timber Species 3-33

Table 3-5 Determine Which Documents Are Needed for the Reexportation of CITES Appendix II Regulated Timber 

Species 3-36

Table 3-6 Determine Documents Needed for the Re-exportation of CITES 
Tables

LOT-2 CITES Timber Species Manual 03/2022-78

Appendix III Regulated Timber Species 3-70

Table 3-7 Instructions for Export or Re-export Verification of CITES 

Permits or Certificates Issued by USFWS 3-79

Table 3-8 Determine the Quantity of a Representative Unit for 

Inspection 3-83

Table 3-9 Determine the Action Based on the Inspection Results 3-84

Table 3-10 Instructions for Validation and Endorsement of CITES Reexport Certificate 3-85

Table 4-11 Confirm the Violation Warrants Seizure and Forfeiture 4-6

Table 4-12 Determine Forfeiture Procedures to Use for Seized Timber or 

Articles 4-9

Table 4-13 PPQ Form 626, Petition for Remission or Mitigation of Forfeiture 

for Seizures Under $10,000 Value 4-21

Table 5-1 Designated PPQ CITES Ports Directory 5-1

Table 6-1 CBP-Designated Points of Contacts for CITES 6-2

Table 7-1 List of Common Names for CITES Appendix I, Appendix II, and 

Appendix III Timber Species 7-1

Table A-2 Instructions for Completing Request for Services to Transport, 

Store, and/or Dispose of Seized or Forfeited Shipments A-5

Table A-3 Reference for CITES Violations Citation of Regulations on 

Applicable PPQ Forms 518, 623, 624, 624A, and 627 A-7

Table A-4 FWS Notice of FWS-USDA Validation of CITES Documents for 

Products Containing Both CITES-listed Non-living Plants and 

Wildlife Species CITES or Non-CITES A-19

Table A-5 Instructions for Completing PPQ Form 518, Report of 

Violation A-21

Table A-6 Distribution of PPQ Form 518 Case File A-24

Table A-7 Instructions for Completing PPQ Form 623, Waiver of Forfeiture 

Procedures by Owner of Seized Property (for seizures valued at 

$10,000 or less) A-30

Table A-8 Instructions for Completing PPQ Form 624, Notice for Seizure 

and Proposed Forfeiture Valued at $10,000 or Less A-33

Table A-9 Instructions for Completing PPQ Form 624, Part 5-PPQ/CBP 

Port Worksheet A-38

Table A-10 Instructions for Completing PPQ Form 624A, Notice for Seizure 

of Property Valued Greater Than $10,000, Part 1 (Parts 2-4 are 

duplicates) A-42

Table A-11 Instructions for Completing PPQ Form 624A, Part 5-PPQ/CBP 

Port Worksheet A-46

Table A-12 Instructions for Completing PPQ Form 627, Declaration of 

Forfeiture A-54
02/2015-43 CITES Timber Species Manual LOT-13

PPQ

CITES Timber 

Species Manual

Acknowledgments

John Arcery, Writer, USDA-APHIS-PPQ, National CITES Specialist and Botanist

Deborah Briggs, Writer/Editor, USDA-APHIS-PPQ Writer, Manuals

Cover photographs: ramin dowels courtesy of Atlas Dowel & Wood Products Company; bigleaf 

mahogany (swietenia macrophylla) lumber and Brazilian rosewood (Dalbergia nigra) lumber by Bud 

Petit de Manage, USDA-APHIS-PPQ; bigleaf mahogany timber by John Arcery; guitar of Brazilian 

rosewood courtesy of C.F. Martin & Company. 

Wood identification cross-section photographs by Alex Wiedenhoeft, USDA-Forest Service-Forest 

Products Laboratory, Center for Anatomy Research.

Parts of Appendix E, CITES Wood Identification, are from the CITES Identification Guide—Tropical 

Woods, published by authority of the Minister of Environment, Minister of Supply and Services, Canada, 

with the collaboration of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), Forest Service (FS), and 

Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS). 
LOT-14 CITES I-II-III Timber Species Manual 09/2014-50
05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 1-1

Chapter

1

Introduction

Contents

Purpose 1-1

Scope 1-2

What the Manual Covers 1-2

What the Manual Does Not Cover 1-3

Users 1-3

Related Documents 1-3

Authority 1-3

Code of Federal Regulations 1-4

Homeland Security Act of 2002 1-4

Conventions 1-5

Using the Manual 1-8

Reporting Problems With or Suggestions for the Manual 1-9

Manual Updates 1-9

Ordering Additional Manuals and Revisions 1-10

Purpose

The CITES Appendixes I-II-III Timber Species Manual provides the 

procedures for the enforcement of the Convention on International Trade in 

Endangered Species of Wild Flora and Fauna (CITES) Appendix I, Appendix 

II, and Appendix III timber species. 

As defined by the Convention, the appendixes are as follows:

Appendix I includes those timber species that are the most endangered 

among CITES-listed plants, and are threatened with extinction; CITES 

generally prohibits commercial international trade in specimens of these 

species

Appendix II includes those timber species which are not necessarily 

threatened with extinction, but may become so unless trade in specimens 

of such species is subject to strict regulation in order to avoid utilization 

which is incompatible with the species’ survival

Appendix III includes those timber species that have been added at the 

request of a Party that already regulates trade in the species and that needs 

the cooperation of other countries to prevent unsustainable or illegal 

exploitation of the species
Introduction

Scope

1-2 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

Scope

What the Manual Covers

The CITES Timber Species Manual covers CITES Appendix I, Appendix II, 

and Appendix III Timber species of the Convention on International Trade in 

Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora. 

The manual is divided into the following chapters:

Introduction

Importation of CITES Timber Species

Re-exportation of CITES Timber Species

Violations, Seizures, and Forfeitures

The Introduction provides basic information about the manual, such as the 

purpose, scope, users, related documents, directions for using the manual, and 

a description of conventions used throughout the manual.

The Importation of CITES Timber Species chapter provides the procedures for 

verifying and handling importing of articles produced from timber species 

listed as CITES Appendix I, Appendix II, and Appendix III.

The Re-exportation of CITES Timber Species chapter provides the procedures 

for verifying and handling re-exporting of articles produced from timber 

species listed as CITES Appendix I, Appendix II, and Appendix III.

The Violations, Seizures, and Forfeitures chapter provides the procedures for 

documenting violations, and seizing and forfeiting of illegally-traded CITES 

regulated material.

The appendixes provide supplemental information to assist CBP Agricultural 

Specialists, PPQ Plant Health Safeguarding Specialists, and PPQ Export 

Certification Specialists who use the manual with carrying out specific duties. 

The Glossary defines specialized words, abbreviations, and acronyms, and 

other terms that are used in the difficult or unfamiliar identification of lumber. 

The Index contains topics and page numbers for quick reference.
Introduction

Users

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 1-3

What the Manual Does Not Cover

The manual does not cover the following;

Information about medicinals and other derivatives that are intended for 

human consumption and derived from CITES Appendix I, Appendix II, 

or Appendix III timber species (see the Wood and Wood Byproducts 

section of Agricultural Commodity and Import Requirements database)

Information about woody species and species that simulate the growth 

habit of woody species (such as cycads and palms), that are used solely 

for medicinal or herbal medicines or used solely as horticultural 

specimens (see the Wood and Wood Byproducts section of the 

Agricultural Commodity and Import Requirements database))

Port policies or guidelines

Wood identification detailed techniques (see the CITES Identification 

Guide—Tropical Woods)

Users

This manual is written for use by CBP Agricultural Specialists, PPQ Plant 

Health Safeguarding Specialists, PPQ Export Certification Specialists, and 

other CBP and PPQ personnel; State cooperators; and collaborators at airports 

and maritime locations. The experience level of users will vary, but the CBP 

Agricultural Specialists and PPQ Plant Health Safeguarding Specialists and 

PPQ Export Certification Specialists have, at minimum, a working knowledge 

of using PPQ manuals to make regulatory decisions.

Related Documents

Authority

The regulatory authority for taking the actions listed in this manual is 

contained in the following Acts:

Civil Asset Forfeiture Reform Act of 2000

Endangered Species Act of 1973 (ESA)1

Homeland Security Act of 20022

Authority for specific regulatory actions is contained in the Code of Federal 

Regulations (CFR) Titles 7 and 50. and the Homeland Security Act of 2002.

1 The Endangered Species Act of 1973 authorizes the USDA to enforce the Convention of International 

Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).

2 The Homeland Security Act of 2002 authorizes the Department of Homeland Security to enforce 

Section II of the Endangered Species Act of 1973.
Introduction

Application

1-4 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

Code of Federal Regulations

The Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) provide the authority for the 

regulatory action taken and are enforced by CBP and PPQ. The restrictions and 

prohibitions listed in this manual are covered by Titles 7 and 50.

Title 7CFR contains the following parts:

Part 355, for specifics on endangered species regulations concerning 

plants

Part 356, for specifics on forfeiture procedures

Title 50CFR, Parts 1 to 199 contains the following parts for regulating 

endangered species:

Part 17.12, Endangered and Threatened Plants

Part 23, Endangered Species Convention

Part 24, Importation and Exportation of Plants at Designated Ports

Homeland Security Act of 2002

The Homeland Security Act of 2002 contains the following section:

Title 4, Section 421

Refer to the Code of Federal Regulations for the full text of the CFRs listed 

above. Refer to the full text of the CITES Convention and Decisions and 

Resolutions of the Conference of the Parties (all are used to make regulatory 

decisions), at http://www.CITES.org.

Application

The CITES I-II-III Timber Species Manual contains the policies and guidelines 

for the tasks associated with regulating CITES Appendix I, Appendix II, and 

Appendix III timber species. The manual informs CBP Agriculture Specialists, 

PPQ Plant Health Safeguarding Specialists, PPQ Export Certification 

Specialists, and their managers with instructions to perform various clearance 

tasks.
Introduction

Conventions

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 1-5

Conventions

Conventions3 used in this manual are established by custom and are widely 

recognized and accepted. Major conventions used in this manual follow.

Advisories

Advisories are used throughout the CITES I-II-III Timber Species Manual to 

bring important information to your attention. Please carefully review each 

advisory. The definitions coincide with American National Standards Institute 

(ANSI), and are in the format shown below:

Boldface

Boldfaced type is used to emphasize important words throughout this manual. 

These words are: always, cannot, do not, does not, except, lacks, must, 

neither, never, no, nor, not, only, other than.

3 In this context, conventions means the devices and techniques used in the manual and not the 

Convention of International Trade in International Trade of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).

! DANGER

DANGER is used to indicate the event of imminent risk of death or serious injury. 

! WARNING

WARNING is used to indicate the event of possible risk of serious injury.

! CAUTION

CAUTION is used to indicate tasks involving minor-to-moderate risk of injury.

NOTICE

NOTICE is used to alert the reader of import information or Agency policy.

SAFETY

SAFETY is used for general instructions or reminders related to safety.
Introduction

Conventions

1-6 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

Bullets

Bulleted lists indicate there is no order for the information listed.

Change Bars 

A black change bar (see left margin) is used to indicate a change and appears 

on the revised page. Unfortunately, change bars do not always appear when 

text is merely deleted. Change bars from the previous update are deleted when 

the chapter or appendix is revised.

Chapters

This manual contains the following chapters: Introduction, Importation of 

CITES Protected Timber, Re-exportation of CITES Protected Timber, and

Violations, Seizures, and Forfeitures of CITES Protected Timber. 

Contents

Every chapter has a table of contents that lists the heading titles within. 

Control Data

Control data is located at the top and bottom of each page to help manual users 

keep track of where they are in the manual and to be aware of updates to 

specific chapters, sections, appendixes, etc., in the manual. At the top of each 

page is the chapter title and first-level heading for that page. At the bottom of 

each page is the transmittal number (month, year, number), title of the manual, 

page number, and unit responsible for content.

Decision Tables

Decision tables are used throughout the manual. The first and middle columns 

in each table represent conditions, and the last column represents the action to 

take after all conditions listed for that row are considered. Begin with the 

column headings and move left-to-right, and if the condition does not apply, 

then continue one row at a time until you find the condition that does apply. 

Table 1-1 How to Use Decision Tables

If you: And if the condition 

applies: Then:

Read this column cell and 

row first

Continue in this cell TAKE the action listed in this 

cell

Find the previous condition 

did not apply, then read this 

column cell

Continue in this cell TAKE the action listed in this 

cell
Introduction

Conventions

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 1-7

Examples

Examples are used to clarify a point by applying a real-world situation.

Footnotes

Footnotes comment on or cite a reference to text and are referenced by number. 

The footnotes used in this manual include general text footnotes, figure 

footnotes, and table footnotes. 

General text footnotes are located at the bottom of the page.

When space on the page allows, table and figure footnotes are located directly 

below the associated figure or table. However, for multi-page figures or tables 

that cover the length of a page, footnote numbers and footnote text cannot be 

listed on the same page. To locate figure footnote text or table footnote text, be 

sure to check the last page and the page following the end of the associated 

table.

Heading Levels

Within each chapter there are three heading levels. The first heading is 

indicated by a horizontal line, and the heading follows directly below and 

across both the left and right columns. The second heading is in the right-hand 

column with text beginning below. The third heading is in the left-hand column 

and the text is in the right-hand column. 

Highlighting and Hypertext Links 

Figures, headings, and tables are cross-referenced in the body of the manual 

are highlighted in boldface type. These appear in blue hypertext in the on-line 

manual.

Indentions

Entry requirements which are summarized from CFRs, permits, or policies are 

indented on the page.

EXAMPLE Examples are graphically placed boxes within the text as a means of 

visually separating information from other information on the page. 

Examples always appear in a box like this.

EXAMPLE See Figure 2-1.
Introduction

Using the Manual

1-8 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

Italics

The following items are italicized throughout the CITES I-II-III Timber 

Species Manual:

Cross-references to headings and titles

Publication names

Scientific names of commodities

Numbering Scheme

A two-level numbering scheme is used in this manual for figures, pages, and 

tables. The first number represents the chapter. The second number represents 

the page, figure, or table. This numbering scheme allows for identifying and 

updating. Dashes are used in page numbering to differentiate page numbers 

from decimal points.

Transmittal Number

The transmittal number contains the month, year, and a consecutively-issued 

number (beginning with -01 for the first edition and increasing consecutively 

for each update to the edition). The transmittal number is only changed when 

the specific chapter sections, appendixes, or glossary, tables, or index is 

updated. If no changes are made, then the transmittal number remains the 

unchanged. The transmittal number only changes for the entire manual when a 

new edition is issued or changes are made to the entire manual. 

Using the Manual

Review the and the contents of this manual to get a feel for the scope of 

material covered. Glance through the section that you will be using, and 

familiarize yourself with the organization of the information. Use the table of 

contents to find the information you need. If the table of contents is not

specific enough, then turn to the index to find the topic and corresponding page 

number. 

EXAMPLE The transmittal number is located in the control date at the bottom of 

each page in this manual. 

10/2019-67 is the transmittal number for this update. 

10 is the month the update was listed

2019 is the year the update was issued

67 is the number issued (original new edition was 01 plus 49 

updates)

EXAMPLE To find information on the species identified as CITES Appendix I, Appendix 

II, and Appendix III timber species, see Step 1: Confirm the Identity of the 

Timber or Articles on page 2-5. 
Introduction

Using the Manual

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 1-9

Reporting Problems With or Suggestions for the Manual

Use Table 1-2 to report problems, situations, disagreements, or improvements 

which directly affect the contents of this manual, 

Manual Updates

The PPQ Manuals Unit issues and electronically maintains manuals on the 

Manuals Unit Web site. These on-line manuals contain the most up-to-date 

information. 

Immediate update revisions to the manual are issued and distributed via e-mail 

to CBP Agricultural Specialist and all PPQ employees. 

Each immediate update contains the following information:

Link to access and download the on-line manual 

List of the revised pages

Purpose of the revision(s)

Table 1-2 Reporting Problems With or Suggestions for the CITES I-II-III Manual

If you: Then:

Are not able to access the on-line 

manual

CONTACT the Manuals Unit at 

PPQ.IRM.ISMU.Manuals.Feedback@usda.gov

Have a situation that requires an 

immediate response regarding a 

procedure or regulatory action

1. PPQ CONTACT your PPQ Botanist 1

2. If the PPQ Botanist is not available or is 

unable to answer your question, then contact 

the National CITES Specialist 

timothy.j.torbett@usda.gov or 

the National CITES Coordinator 

john.veremis@usda.gov

3. Be sure to include your name, e-mail 

address, and phone number

1 CBP and PPQ: To determine the name, phone number, and address of the PPQ Botanist that 

services your port, see the List of PPQ Identifiers and National Specialists. 

CBP contact the field office liaison through the 

chain of command

Disagree with a policy, procedure, or 

regulatory action identified in the manual

1. PPQ CONTACT your PPQ Botanist 

2. If the Botanist is not available or is unable to 

answer your question, then contact the 

National CITES Specialist 

timothy.j.torbett@usda.gov or

the National CITES Coordinator 

john.veremis@usda.gov

CBP contact the field office liaison through the 

chain of command

Have a suggestion for improving the 

formatting of the manual (design, layout, 

composition), grammar, or spelling

CONTACT the Manuals Unit at 

PPQ.IRM.ISMU.Manuals.Feedback@usda.gov
Introduction

Using the Manual

1-10 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

Transmittal number

Ordering Additional Manuals and Revisions

Although using the on-line manuals is the preferred method, APHIS 

employees may order paper copies of manuals from the APHIS Printing, 

Distribution, and Mail Services Center in Riverdale, Maryland. See the 

Riverdale Print Shop Web site for detailed information and printing costs. The 

Manuals Unit is not responsible for printing costs.
05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 2-1

Chapter

2 Importation of CITES 

Timber Species

Contents

Introduction 2-2

Preparation 2-3

Filing System 2-3

Procedures 2-4

FWS-USDA-CITES Clearance of Musical Instruments 2-4

Step 1: Confirm the Identity of the Timber or Articles 2-5

CITES Appendix I Species 2-5

CITES Appendix II Species 2-6

CITES Appendix III Species 2-8

Checklist of CITES Species Database 2-9

CITES Timber Species Recognition and Wood Identification 2-10

Step 2: Confirm the Article Being Imported Is Regulated 2-12

Step 3: Determine Your Authority 2-28

Step 4: Determine Which Documents Are Needed 2-29

Required Documents for Importation of Appendix I Timber Species 

2-29

Required Documents for Importation of Appendix II Timber Species 

2-32

Required Documents for Importation of Appendix III Timber Species 

2-67

Step 5: Collect the Appropriate Documents Associated with the Shipment 

2-97

Timber for Importation that Has Been Re-exported from Another Country 

2-97

Step 6: Verify the CITES Document Is Authentic and Acceptable 2-98

Replacement CITES Documents 2-102

Retrospective CITES Documents 2-103

Step 7: Ensure the Protected Plant Permit Has Not Expired 2-105

Confirm PPP Valid or Apply for a PPP 2-105

Step 8: Verify the Quantities Are Authorized 2-106

Step 9: Inspect the Shipment 2-107

Step 10: Cancel CITES Documents By Stamp and Endorsement 2-109

Step 11: Distribute the CITES Documents 2-110
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Introduction

2-2 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

Introduction

The Importation of CITES Timber Species chapter provides the guidelines for 

handling the importation of CITES Appendix I, Appendix II, and Appendix III 

protected timber species. These guidelines are to be used for the following: 

Confirming that the commodity is in a form which is regulated;

Determining which permits and/or certificates are required;

Verifying that the documents are valid;

Inspecting the commodity to verify that the quantity in the shipment 

matches the quantity listed on the CITES document; 

Instructing the user on how to validate a CITES document; and

Distributing and filing the paperwork. 

NOTICE

Use these guidelines in conjunction with 7CFR 319.40 (see the Wood and Wood 

Byproducts section of the Agricultural Commodity and Import Requirements 

database) and the Plant Protection Act. When applying these guidelines, first apply 

the regulations that prevent the entry of plant pests. In addition to a USDA-APHIS 

ePermits-issued Protected Plant Permit, many wood and forest products also require 

PPQ Form 597, Import Permit for Plants and Plant Products (see also PPQ Form 

585, Application to Import Timber or Timber Products).
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Preparation

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 2-3

Preparation

As with other port documents, copies of CITES documents must be filed in an 

organized, consistent manner. The CITES files and copies maintained at your 

port are important in case the originals become lost or destroyed. An accessible 

filing system will also enable you to comply with requests for information 

made by other government and non-government agencies and the general 

public through the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA).

Filing System

If you already have a filing system for retaining CITES records in place at your 

port, then review these instructions to be sure your system is functional. If you 

do not have a filing system in place, then follow the instructions below.

To set up a filing system, do as follows:

1. Decide on the filing system that is most practical for your location. Select 

one of the following methods to keep the records complete and accessible:

File alphabetically by permittee’s name

File chronologically by month and year

2. Select the documents to be filed. At a minimum, you must file the 

following in the order listed below:

A. CITES document (must be a validated copy)

B. Customs entry

C. Dimensional specification sheets (if applicable)

D. Invoice/packing list

E. Lading bill or air waybill

F. Phytosanitary Certificate (if required)

After filing the documents, you must maintain each file for a minimum of five 

years, counting from the date the importation occurred. 

EXAMPLE A file must be maintained until January 24, 2017 for an importation 

that occurred on January 24, 2012.
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

2-4 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

Procedures

The procedures for handling the importation of CITES Appendix I, Appendix 

II, and Appendix III protected timber species are summarized in Table 2-1.

Follow the steps below when handling the importation of CITES Appendix I, 

Appendix II, and Appendix III protected timber species used for lumber or 

other wood products. 

FWS-USDA-CITES Clearance of Musical Instruments

The agreement between the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) and USDA, 

for the clearance of musical instruments made of non-living CITES plant 

material and CITES or non-CITES wildlife for import is as follows: 

FWS Wildlife Inspectors can inspect and clear shipments of products 

containing both CITES listed non-living plant species and any CITES or 

non-CITES wildlife species (fauna/animal). 

This guidance applies only to shipments of products that contain both CITES 

listed non-living plants and CITES or non-CITES wildlife. 

See U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service online guidance and the published letter on 

page A-19, as well as at CITES.org for more information on products 

containing both CITES-listed plants and CITES listed or non-CITES listed 

wildlife.

Table 2-1 Summary of Procedures for Handling the Importation of CITES 

Appendix I, Appendix II, and Appendix III Protected Timber Species

1. Confirm that the commodity is a CITES Appendix I, Appendix II, or Appendix III protected 

timber species.

2. Determine if the form of the commodity imported is protected by CITES.

3. Determine if you have the authority to validate the shipment.

4. Determine which CITES documents must accompany the shipment.

5. Collect all relevant documents associated with the importation.

6. Verify that the CITES document accompanying the importation is authentic and 

acceptable.

7. Verify that the USDA-APHIS ePermits-issued Protected Plant Permit, has not expired.

8. Compare shipping documents with CITES documents to confirm the quantities are 

authorized.

9. Inspect the shipment to make sure the quantities are authorized.

10. If the shipment is in order, then validate the CITES documents by stamp and 

endorsement.

11. Distribute and file the endorsed documents.
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 2-5

Step 1: Confirm the Identity of the Timber or Articles

Currently, there are 6 CITES Appendix I species, 26 Appendix II taxa (21 

species and 5 genera), and 7 CITES Appendix III species used for lumber or 

other wood products. The most frequently used common names are shown 

beside the scientific names listed below. For a list of other common names, see 

Table 7-1 on page 7-1.

CITES Appendix I Species

The CITES Appendix I protected species are as follows:

Abies guatemalensis (Guatemalan fir)

Araucaria araucana (monkey puzzle tree)

Dalbergia nigra (Brazilian rosewood)

Fitzroya cupressoides (alerce)

Pilgerodendron uviferum (pilgerodendron)

Podocarpus parlatorei (Parlatore’s podocarp)
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

2-6 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

CITES Appendix II Species

The CITES Appendix II protected species are as follows:

Adansonia grandidieri (giant baobab)

Afzelia spp. (pod mahogany)

Aniba rosaeodora (Brazilian rosewood)

Bulnesia sarmientoi (galacwood)

Caryocar costaricense (ajillo)

Cedrela spp. 

Dalbergia spp. (rosewoods) except Dalbergia nigra (Brazilian rosewood)

Diospyros spp. (ebonies) 

Gonystylus spp. (ramin)

Guaiacum spp. (lignum vitae)

Guibourtia demeusei (red bubinga)

Guibourtia pellegriniana (rose bubinga)

Guibourtia tessmannii (rose bubinga) 

Khaya spp. (African mahogany)

Oreomunnea pterocarpa (gavilan)

Osyris lanceolata (African sandalwood) 

Paubrasilia echinata (Brazilwood)

Pericopsis elata (afrormosia)

Platymiscium pleiostachyum (cristobal graradillo)

Prunus africana (African cherry, pygeum) 

Pterocarpus spp. (African rosewood, red sandalwood)

Senna meridionalis (taraby)

Swietenia humilis (Pacific Coast mahogany)

Swietenia macrophylla (bigleaf mahogany)

Swietenia mahogani (Caribbean mahogany)

Widdringtonia whytei (Mulanje-cedar)

NOTICE

Effective January 2, 2017, the entire genus Dalbergia spp. (rosewoods) are CITES 

Appendix II except Dalbergia nigra (Brazilian rosewood) remains CITES Appendix I. 
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 2-7

NOTICE

FWS Wildlife Inspectors can inspect and clear shipments of products containing both 

CITES listed non-living plant species and any wildlife species that may be either 

CITES or non-CITES listed species. This guidance only applies to shipments that 

contain both CITES listed plants and wildlife. See the FWS notice on page A-19.
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

2-8 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

CITES Appendix III Species

The CITES Appendix III protected species are as follows:

Dipteryx panamensis (almendro)

Fraxinus mandshurica (manchurian ash) 

Magnolia liliifera var. obovata (magnolia)

Pinus koraiensis (Korean pine)

Podocarpus neriifolius (podocarp) 

Quercus mongolica (mongolian oak)

Tetracentron sinense (tetracentron) 
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 2-9

Shipping Documents Review 

To determine that the importation is of a CITES Appendix I, Appendix II, or 

Appendix III timber species, review the shipping documents. Regulations 

require CITES plants be identified to their genus and species by any one of the 

following:

Label 

Invoice

Packing list

Tag

Other document accompanying the shipment

The exporter or the exporter’s agent is responsible for providing you with the 

scientific name of the timber species traded. CITES regulated timber may be 

manifested or invoiced by a trade name or a local name. If you are given a 

common name that is not listed in Table 7-1, and you want to confirm the 

scientific name of the material being imported to determine if the wood is 

listed as regulated, then search the Checklist of CITES species database on the 

CITES web site.

Checklist of CITES Species Database

Use the Checklist of CITES Species database to do the following:

Generate an Index of CITES Species (an alphabetical list of all plant taxa 

(and animal taxa) currently included in the CITES Appendixes)

Search and view by CITES Appendix listing

Search and view by common name (refer to the main record)

Search and view by country

Search and view by scientific name (main records and contain all 

information)

Search and view by scientific synonym (refer to the main record)

Provide a history of CITES Listings (an historical record of all CITES 

listings since 1975, including all reservations and annotations) 

NOTICE

The Checklist of CITES species database does not include all common names and 

synonyms for CITES-regulated species.
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

2-10 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

CITES Timber Species Recognition and Wood Identification 

For timber species commodity recognition and a synopsis of wood 

identification, see Wood Identification on page E-1. For detailed instructions 

on how to identify wood of CITES regulated species, see the CITES 

Identification Guide—Tropical Woods guide.

Urgent Interception Identification

If after inspecting the wood or articles and reviewing the entry paperwork, you 

are still unable to determine the identity of the wood or articles or suspect or 

question that the article is not as identified on the manifest or invoice, then do 

as follows:

1. Contact the PPQ Area Identifier Botanist 1 that services your port to 

determine if taking a sample of the wood is necessary. 

2. You may be directed (by the PPQ Botanist) to sample the commodity and 

send the sample for identification.

3. If you are instructed to send the interception(s) to a PPQ Area Identifier 

specializing in CITES wood identification, then see Table 2-2.

A. Complete the Interception Record for URGENT identification in ARM.

B. Enclose the specimen and interception form(s) in an escape proof 

package. 

C. Affix black and yellow tape to the outside of the package.

D. Ship to the PPQ Area Identifier (listed in Table 2-2) using an overnight 

delivery service with tracking capacity.

4. If you are instructed by the PPQ Botanist or Area Specialist (specializing in 

CITES wood identification) to send the interception to: 

PRIMARY: U.S. Forest Service International Programs Wood 

Identification and Screening center (WISC), or

SECONDARY: National Fish and Wildlife Forensic Lab, or

TERTIARY: USDA Forest Products Laboratory, 

then see Table 2-3.

A. Contact the laboratory to confirm an analyst is available and to verify 

shipping procedures and required paperwork. 

B. Complete the required paperwork.

C. Enclose the specimen(s) and interception form(s) in escape-proof 

packaging with tape. 

D. Clearly initial and date son the tape. 

1 CBP and PPQ: To locate the name, phone number, and address of the PPQ Botanist that services 

your port, see the List of PPQ Identifiers and National Specialists. 
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 2-11

E. Include the National CITES Coordinator, Dr. John Veremis, e-mail 

john.veremis@usda.gov on all communications. 

F. Follow the laboratory’s shipping procedures and send the package to 

the designated laboratory (Table 2-3) as instructed by the PPQ Botanist 

or Area Specialist. 

Table 2-2 List of PPQ Area Identifiers Specializing in CITES Wood Identification

Hub PPQ Area Identifier Specializing in CITES Wood Identification Phone FAX

Eastern USDA-APHIS-PPQ 

Plant Inspection Station

Attn: Leo Castaneda, Botanist

PO Box 660520

Miami, FL 33266

305/492-1854 305/492-1742

Western USDA-APHIS-PPQ 

Plant Inspection Station

Attn: Jamal Al-Henaid, Botanist

222 Kansas Street

El Segundo, CA 90245

310/955-3277 

or 

310/955-3279

310/955-3346

Table 2-3 List of Other Identifiers Specializing in CITES Wood Identification

Laboratory Specialist in CITES Wood Identification Phone FAX

USFS International Programs Wood Identification and Screening Center

c/o National Fish and Wildlife Forensic Laboratory

1490 East Main Street

Ashland, OR 97520-1310

385/239-8260

541/488-6526

National Fish and Wildlife Forensic Laboratory

1490 East Main Street

Ashland, OR 97520-1310

541/482-4191 541/482-4989

USDA Forest Products Laboratory

Attn: Michael Wiemann or Alex Wiedenhoeft

One Gifford Pinchot Drive

Madison, WI 53726-2398

 608/231-9384 

(Michael) 

608/231-9258 

(Alex) 
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

2-12 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

Step 2: Confirm the Article Being Imported Is Regulated

CITES annotates some of the listed timber species to include or exclude certain 

parts and derivatives. To confirm that the listed article being imported is 

regulated by CITES Appendix I, Appendix II, or Appendix III, inspect the 

consignment and verify the description of the commodity on the 

accompanying shipping documents. Then continue, using Table 2-4. 

Table 2-4 Determine if a Timber Species Is Regulated by CITES Appendix I, Appendix II, or 

Appendix III 

If the timber 

species is:

And the 

country of 

origin is:

And the parts or 

derivatives being 

imported are:

And: Then:

Abies 

guatemalensis 

(Guatemalan fir)

Any country All parts and 

derivatives, 

including 

manufactured and 

finished products 1

The articles are CITES Appendix I 

regulated

GO to Step 3: Determine Your 

Authority on page 2-28

Adansonia 

grandidieri

(giant baobab)

Any country All parts and 

derivatives except

seeds, spores, 

pollen (including 

pollinia); seedling or 

tissue cultures 

obtained in vitro, in 

solid or liquid 

media, transported 

in sterile containers; 

cut flowers of 

artificially 

propagated plants; 

fruits, and parts and 

derivatives of 

artificially 

propagated plants 

of the genus Vanilla

The articles are CITES Appendix 

II regulated

GO to Step 3: Determine Your 

Authority on page 2-28

1. VERIFY by physical inspection 

that the articles are seeds, 

spores, pollen (including 

pollinia); seedling or tissue 

cultures obtained in vitro, in 

solid or liquid media, 

transported in sterile 

containers; cut flowers of 

artificially propagated plants; 

fruits, and parts and derivatives 

of artificially propagated plants 

of the genus Vanilla

2. The articles are not regulated 

by CITES

NOTICE

Other woody species and species that simulate the growth characteristics of woody species (such as 

cycads and palms), used solely for medicinal/herbal medicines or as horticultural specimens are not

covered in this manual. 
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 2-13

Afzelia spp.

(pod mahogany)

African 

countries

 Logs 4

 Lumber 5

 Veneer 6

 Plywood 19

 Transformed 

wood 130

The articles are CITES Appendix 

II regulated

GO to Step 3: Determine Your 

Authority on page 2-28

Other than logs, 

lumber, veneer, 

plywood, 

transformed wood

1. VERIFY by physical inspection 

that the articles are not logs, 

lumber, veneer, plywood, 

transformed wood

2. The articles are not CITES 

regulated; EXIT this manual

Other than 

African 

countries

1. REVIEW the shipping 

documents to verify the country 

of origin is other than African 

countries.

2. The articles are not regulated 

by CITES; EXIT this manual

Aniba 

rosaeodora

(Brazilian 

rosewood) 

Any country  Logs 4

 Lumber 5

 Plywood 19

 Veneer 6

The articles are CITES Appendix 

II regulated

GO to Step 3: Determine Your 

Authority on page 2-28

Extracts 2 Are finished products 

containing extracts 

as ingredients, 

including fragrances 

1. VERIFY by physical inspection 

that the articles are finished 

products containing extracts as 

ingredients, including 

fragrances

2. The articles are not regulated 

by CITES; EXIT this manual

Are other than

finished products 

containing extracts 

as ingredients 

The articles are CITES Appendix 

II regulated

GO to the Wood and Wood 

Byproducts section of the 

Agricultural Commodity and Import 

Requirements database to regulate

Other than logs, 

lumber, plywood, 

veneer, or extracts 

1. VERIFY by physical inspection 

that the articles are not logs, 

lumber, plywood, veneer, and 

extracts 

2. The articles are not regulated 

by CITES; EXIT this manual

Table 2-4 Determine if a Timber Species Is Regulated by CITES Appendix I, Appendix II, or 

Appendix III (continued)

If the timber 

species is:

And the 

country of 

origin is:

And the parts or 

derivatives being 

imported are:

And: Then:
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

2-14 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

Araucaria 

araucana 

(Monkey puzzle 

tree)

Any country All parts and 

derivatives, 

including 

manufactured and 

finished products 3

The articles are CITES Appendix I 

regulated

GO to Step 3: Determine Your 

Authority on page 2-28

Bulnesia 

sarmientoi

(gaiacwood) 

Any country  Logs 4

 Lumber 5

 Plywood 19

 Veneer 6

The articles are CITES Appendix 

II regulated

GO to Step 3: Determine Your 

Authority on page 2-28

 Extracts

 Powder

The articles are CITES Appendix 

II regulated 

GO to the Wood and Wood 

Byproducts section of the 

Agricultural Commodity and Import 

Requirements database to regulate

Other than

extracts, logs, 

lumber, plywood, 

powder, veneer

1. VERIFY by physical inspection 

that the articles are not

extracts, logs, lumber, plywood, 

powder, or veneer

2. The articles are not CITES 

regulated; EXIT this manual

Caryocar 

costaricense

(ajillo)

Any country All parts and 

derivatives, 

including 

manufactured and 

finished products 4

The articles are CITES Appendix 

II regulated

GO to Step 3: Determine Your 

Authority on page 2-28

Cedrela spp. Neotropics 5

(includes 

articles 

originating in 

the 

Neotropics 

that were 

re-exported 

from another 

country)

 Logs 4

 Lumber 5

 Plywood 19

 Veneer 6

The articles are CITES Appendix 

II regulated

GO to Step 3: Determine Your 

Authority on page 2-28

Other than logs, 

lumber, plywood or 

veneer

1. VERIFY by physical inspection 

that the articles are not logs, 

lumber, plywood, or veneer

2. The articles are not regulated 

by CITES; EXIT this manual

Other than 

the

Neotropics

1. REVIEW the shipping 

documents to verify the country 

of origin is other than the 

Neotropics 5

2. The articles are not regulated 

by CITES; EXIT this manual

Table 2-4 Determine if a Timber Species Is Regulated by CITES Appendix I, Appendix II, or 

Appendix III (continued)

If the timber 

species is:

And the 

country of 

origin is:

And the parts or 

derivatives being 

imported are:

And: Then:
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 2-15

Dalbergia spp.

except

Dalbergia nigra

Mexico  Logs 4

 Lumber 5

 Plywood 19

 Veneer 6

Exported from 

Mexico 

The articles are CITES Appendix 

II (except Dalbergia nigra)

GO to Step 3: Determine Your 

Authority on page 2-28

Exported from other 

than Mexico

The articles are CITES Appendix 

II (except Dalbergia nigra)

GO to Step 3: Determine Your 

Authority on page 2-28

Other than logs, 

lumber, plywood, 

veneer

Exported from 

Mexico

VERIFY by physical inspection that 

the articles are not logs, lumber, 

plywood, veneer

The articles are not regulated by 

CITES; EXIT this manual

Exported from other 

than Mexico

The articles are CITES Appendix 

II

GO to Step 3: Determine Your 

Authority on page 2-28

CONTINUE to next page

Table 2-4 Determine if a Timber Species Is Regulated by CITES Appendix I, Appendix II, or 

Appendix III (continued)

If the timber 

species is:

And the 

country of 

origin is:

And the parts or 

derivatives being 

imported are:

And: Then:
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

2-16 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

Dalbergia spp.

except 

Dalbergia nigra

Other than 

Mexico

All parts and 

derivatives except

leaves, flowers, 

pollen, fruits, seeds, 

Finished musical 

instruments, 

Finished musical 

instrument 

accessories, 

Finished musical 

instrument parts

Other than finished 

products

The articles are CITES Appendix 

II 

GO to Step 3: Determine Your 

Authority on page 2-28

Finished products 

weight is more than 

10 kg per shipment 6

(wood weight per 

product)

The articles are CITES Appendix 

II GO to Step 3: Determine Your 

Authority on page 2-28

Finished products 

weight 10 kg or less

per shipment;6

(wood weight per 

product) 6

VERIFY by physical inspection that 

the shipment is 10 kg or less

The articles are not regulated by 

CITES

Finished musical 

instruments

Finished musical 

instrument 

accessories, 

Finished musical 

instrument parts

VERIFY by physical inspection that 

the articles are finished musical 

instruments, finished musical 

instrument accessories, and 

finished musical instrument parts

The articles are not regulated by 

CITES

Leaves, flowers, 

pollen, fruits, seeds 

VERIFY by physical inspection that 

the articles are flowers, fruits, 

leaves, pollen, seeds 

The articles are not regulated by 

CITES; EXIT this manual

Dalbergia nigra

(Brazilian 

rosewood)

Any country All parts and 

derivatives, 

including 

manufactured and 

finished products 

The articles are CITES Appendix I 

regulated

GO to Step 3: Determine Your 

Authority on page 2-28

Table 2-4 Determine if a Timber Species Is Regulated by CITES Appendix I, Appendix II, or 

Appendix III (continued)

If the timber 

species is:

And the 

country of 

origin is:

And the parts or 

derivatives being 

imported are:

And: Then:
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 2-17

Diospyros spp.

(ebonies) 

Madagascar 

(includes 

articles 

originating in 

Madagascar 

that were reexported from 

another 

country) 

 Logs 4

 Lumber 5

 Veneer 6

The articles are CITES Appendix 

II regulated

GO to Step 3: Determine Your 

Authority on page 2-28

Other than logs, 

lumber, or veneer 

1. VERIFY, by physical inspection, 

that the articles are not logs, 

lumber, or veneer

2. The articles are not regulated 

by CITES; EXIT this manual 

Other than 

Madagascar 

1. REVIEW the shipping 

documents to verify the country 

of origin is other than 

Madagascar

2. The articles are not regulated 

by CITES; EXIT this manual

Dipteryx 

panamensis

(almendro, 

Tonka bean)

Any country All parts and 

derivatives, 

including 

manufactured and 

finished products 7

The articles are CITES Appendix 

III regulated

GO to Step 3: Determine Your 

Authority on page 2-28

Fitzroya 

cupressoides 

(alerce)

Any country All parts and 

derivatives, 

including 

manufactured and 

finished products 8

The articles are CITES Appendix I 

regulated

GO to Step 3: Determine Your 

Authority on page 2-28

Fraxinus 

mandshurica 

(manchurian 

ash)

Any country  Logs 4

 Lumber 5

 Veneer 6

The articles are CITES Appendix 

III regulated

Other than logs, 

lumber, veneer

1. VERIFY, by physical inspection, 

that the articles are not logs, 

lumber, or veneer

2. The articles are not regulated 

by CITES; EXIT this manual 

Gonystylus spp. 

(ramin)

Any country All parts and 

derivatives, 

including 

manufactured and 

finished products9

The articles are CITES Appendix 

II regulated

GO to Step 3: Determine Your 

Authority on page 2-28

Table 2-4 Determine if a Timber Species Is Regulated by CITES Appendix I, Appendix II, or 

Appendix III (continued)

If the timber 

species is:

And the 

country of 

origin is:

And the parts or 

derivatives being 

imported are:

And: Then:
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

2-18 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

Guaiacum spp.

(lignum vitae)

Any country All parts and 

derivatives, except

finished products 

packaged and 

ready for retail trade 

10

The articles are CITES Appendix 

II regulated

GO to Step 3: Determine Your 

Authority on page 2-28

Finished products 

packaged and 

ready for retail trade

Packaged and ready 

for retail trade

1. VERIFY by physical inspection 

that the articles are packaged 

and ready for retail trade

2. The articles are not regulated 

by CITES; EXIT this manual

Not packaged and 

ready for retail trade

The articles are CITES Appendix II 

regulated

GO to Step 3: Determine Your 

Authority on page 2-28

Guibourtia 

demeusei

Any country All parts and 

derivatives except

leaves, flowers, 

pollen, fruits, seeds, 

Finished musical 

instruments, 

Finished musical 

instrument 

accessories, 

Finished musical 

instrument parts

Other than finished 

products

The articles are CITES Appendix 

II 

GO to Step 3: Determine Your 

Authority on page 2-28

Finished products 

weigh more than 

10 kg per shipment 6

(wood each product)

The articles are CITES Appendix 

II GO to Step 3: Determine Your 

Authority on page 2-28

Finished products 

maximum weight 

10 kg or less per 

shipment 6

(wood each product)

VERIFY by physical inspection that 

the shipment is 10 kg or less

The articles are not regulated by 

CITES

 Finished 

musical 

instruments

 Finished 

musical 

instrument parts

 finished 

products 

packed and 

ready for retail 

trade

VERIFY by physical inspection that 

the articles are finished musical 

instruments, finished musical 

instrument accessories, and 

finished musical instrument parts

The articles are not regulated by 

CITES

Leaves, flowers, 

pollen, fruits, seeds 

VERIFY by physical inspection that 

the articles are flowers, fruits, 

leaves, pollen, seeds 

The articles are not regulated by 

CITES; EXIT this manual

Table 2-4 Determine if a Timber Species Is Regulated by CITES Appendix I, Appendix II, or 

Appendix III (continued)

If the timber 

species is:

And the 

country of 

origin is:

And the parts or 

derivatives being 

imported are:

And: Then:
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 2-19

Guibourtia 

pellegriniana

Any country All parts and 

derivatives except

leaves, flowers, 

pollen, fruits, seeds, 

Finished musical 

instruments, 

Finished musical 

instrument 

accessories, 

Finished musical 

instrument parts

Other than finished 

products

The articles are CITES Appendix 

II 

GO to Step 3: Determine Your 

Authority on page 2-28

Finished products 

weigh more than 10 

kg per shipment 6

(wood each product)

The articles are CITES Appendix 

II GO to Step 3: Determine Your 

Authority on page 2-28

Finished products 

other than weight 10 

kg or less per 

shipment 6

(wood each product)

VERIFY by physical inspection that 

the shipment is 10 kg or less

The articles are not regulated by 

CITES

Finished musical 

instruments, 

Finished musical 

instrument 

accessories, 

Finished musical 

instrument parts

VERIFY by physical inspection that 

the articles are finished musical 

instruments, finished musical 

instrument accessories, and 

finished musical instrument parts

The articles are not regulated by 

CITES

Leaves, flowers, 

pollen, fruits, seeds 

VERIFY by physical inspection that 

the articles are flowers, fruits, 

leaves, pollen, seeds 

The articles are not regulated by 

CITES; EXIT this manual

Table 2-4 Determine if a Timber Species Is Regulated by CITES Appendix I, Appendix II, or 

Appendix III (continued)

If the timber 

species is:

And the 

country of 

origin is:

And the parts or 

derivatives being 

imported are:

And: Then:
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

2-20 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

Guibourtia

tessmannii 

Any country All parts and 

derivatives except

leaves, flowers, 

pollen, fruits, seeds, 

Finished musical 

instruments, 

Finished musical 

instrument 

accessories, 

Finished musical 

instrument parts

Other than finished 

products

The articles are CITES Appendix 

II 

GO to Step 3: Determine Your 

Authority on page 2-28

Finished products 

maximum weight 

more than 

10 kg per shipment 6

(wood each product)

The articles are CITES Appendix 

II GO to Step 3: Determine Your 

Authority on page 2-28

Finished products 

maximum weight 

10 kg or less per 

shipment 6

(wood each product) 

VERIFY by physical inspection that 

the shipment is 10 kg or less

The articles are not regulated by 

CITES

Finished musical 

instruments, 

Finished musical 

instrument 

accessories, 

Finished musical 

instrument parts

VERIFY by physical inspection that 

the articles are finished musical 

instruments, finished musical 

instrument accessories, and 

finished musical instrument parts

The articles are not regulated by 

CITES

Leaves, flowers, 

pollen, fruits, seeds 

VERIFY by physical inspection that 

the articles are flowers, fruits, 

leaves, pollen, seeds 

The articles are not regulated by 

CITES; EXIT this manual

Khaya spp.

(African 

mahogany)

African 

countries

 Logs 4

 Lumber 5

 Veneer 6

 Plywood 19

 Transformed 

wood 13

The articles are CITES Appendix 

II regulated

GO to Step 3: Determine Your 

Authority on page 2-28

Other than logs, 

lumber, veneer, 

plywood, 

transformed wood

1. VERIFY by physical inspection 

that the articles are not logs, 

lumber, plywood, veneer, or 

transformed wood

2. The articles are not CITES 

regulated; EXIT this manual

Other than 

African 

countries

1. REVIEW the shipping 

documents to verify the country 

of origin is other than African 

countries.

2. The articles are not regulated 

by CITES; EXIT this manual

Table 2-4 Determine if a Timber Species Is Regulated by CITES Appendix I, Appendix II, or 

Appendix III (continued)

If the timber 

species is:

And the 

country of 

origin is:

And the parts or 

derivatives being 

imported are:

And: Then:
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 2-21

Magnolia liliifera 

var. obovata

(magnolia)

Any country All parts and 

derivatives, 

including 

manufactured and 

finished products 11

The articles are CITES Appendix 

III regulated

GO to Step 3: Determine Your 

Authority on page 2-28

Oreomunnea 

pterocarpa 

(gavilan)

Any country All parts and 

derivatives, 

including 

manufactured and 

finished products 12

The articles are CITES Appendix 

II regulated

GO to Step 3: Determine Your 

Authority on page 2-28

Osyris 

lanceolata 

(African 

sandalwood)

Burundi

Ethiopia

Kenya

Rwanda

Uganda

United 

Republic of 

Tanzania

All parts and 

derivatives, except

finished products 

packaged and 

ready for retail trade

The articles are CITES Appendix 

II regulated

GO to Step 3: Determine Your 

Authority on page 2-28

Finished products Packaged and ready 

for retail trade

1. VERIFY by physical inspection, 

that the finished products are 

packaged and ready for retail 

sale

2. The articles are not regulated 

by CITES; EXIT this manual

Not packaged and 

ready for retail trade

The articles are CITES Appendix 

II regulated

GO to Step 3: Determine Your 

Authority on page 2-28

Table 2-4 Determine if a Timber Species Is Regulated by CITES Appendix I, Appendix II, or 

Appendix III (continued)

If the timber 

species is:

And the 

country of 

origin is:

And the parts or 

derivatives being 

imported are:

And: Then:
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

2-22 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

Paubrasilia 

echinata

(Brazilwood)

Any country All parts and 

derivatives and 

finished products 

except

Finished musical 

instruments, 

Finished musical 

instrument 

accessories, 

Finished musical 

instrument parts

Other than finished 

products

The articles are CITES Appendix 

II 

GO to Step 3: Determine Your 

Authority on page 2-28

Finished products 

maximum weight 

more than 

10 kg per shipment 6

(wood each product)

The articles are CITES Appendix 

II GO to Step 3: Determine Your 

Authority on page 2-28

Finished products 

maximum weight 

10 kg or less per 

shipment 6

(wood each product) 

VERIFY by physical inspection that 

the shipment is 10 kg or less

The articles are not regulated by 

CITES

Finished musical 

instruments, 

Finished musical 

instrument 

accessories, 

Finished musical 

instrument parts

VERIFY by physical inspection that 

the articles are finished musical 

instruments, finished musical 

instrument accessories, and 

finished musical instrument parts

The articles are not regulated by 

CITES

Pericopsis elata 

(afrormosia)

Any country  Logs 4

 Lumber 5

 Plywood 19

 Transformed 

wood 13

 Veneer 6

The articles are CITES Appendix 

II regulated

GO to Step 3: Determine Your 

Authority on page 2-28

Other than logs, 

lumber, or veneer

1. VERIFY, by physical inspection, 

that the articles are not logs, 

lumber, or veneer

2. The articles are not regulated 

by CITES; EXIT this manual

Pilgerodendron 

uviferum 

(pilgerodendron)

Any country All parts and 

derivatives, 

including 

manufactured and 

finished products 14

The articles are CITES Appendix I 

regulated

GO to Step 3: Determine Your 

Authority on page 2-28

Table 2-4 Determine if a Timber Species Is Regulated by CITES Appendix I, Appendix II, or 

Appendix III (continued)

If the timber 

species is:

And the 

country of 

origin is:

And the parts or 

derivatives being 

imported are:

And: Then:
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 2-23

Pinus koraiensis 

(Korean pine)

Any country  Logs 4

 Lumber 5

 Veneer 6

The articles are CITES Appendix 

III regulated

GO to Step 3: Determine Your 

Authority on page 2-28

Other than logs, 

lumber, or veneer

1. VERIFY by physical inspection 

that the articles are not logs, 

lumber, or veneer

2. The articles are not regulated 

by CITES; EXIT this manual

Platymiscium 

pleiostachym 

(cristobal 

graradillo)

Any country All parts and 

derivatives, 

including 

manufactured and 

finished products 15

The articles are CITES Appendix 

II regulated

GO to Step 3: Determine Your 

Authority on page 2-28

Podocarpus 

neriifolius

(podocarp)

Any country All parts and 

derivatives, 

including 

manufactured and 

finished products 

The articles are CITES Appendix 

III regulated

GO to Step 3: Determine Your 

Authority on page 2-28

Podocarpus 

parlatorei 

(Parlatore’s 

podocarp)

Any country All parts and 

derivatives, 

including 

manufactured and 

finished products

The articles are CITES Appendix I 

regulated

GO to Step 3: Determine Your 

Authority on page 2-28

Prunus africana 

(African cherry, 

pygeum) 

Any country All parts and 

derivatives 

including 

manufactured and 

finished products

The articles are CITES Appendix 

II regulated

GO to Step 3: Determine Your 

Authority on page 2-28

Table 2-4 Determine if a Timber Species Is Regulated by CITES Appendix I, Appendix II, or 

Appendix III (continued)

If the timber 

species is:

And the 

country of 

origin is:

And the parts or 

derivatives being 

imported are:

And: Then:
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

2-24 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

Pterocarpus

spp. (African 

rosewood, 

kosso) except 

Pterocarpus 

santalinus

African 

countries

 Logs 4

 Lumber 5

 Veneer 6

 Plywood 19

 Transformed 

wood 13

The articles are CITES Appendix 

II regulated 

GO to Step 3: Determine Your 

Authority on page 2-28

Other than

extracts, logs, 

lumber, veneer, 

plywood, 

transformed wood, 

1. VERIFY by physical inspection 

that the articles are not logs, 

lumber, plywood, veneer, or 

transformed wood

2. The articles are not CITES 

regulated; EXIT this manual

Other than 

African 

countries

1. REVIEW the shipping 

documents to verify the country 

of origin is other than African 

countries.

2. The articles are not regulated 

by CITES; EXIT this manual

Pterocarpus 

santalinus 

(red 

sandalwood, 

redsanders)

Any country  Logs 4

 Wood chips 16

 Extracts

 Powder

The articles are CITES Appendix 

II regulated

GO to Step 3: Determine Your 

Authority on page 2-28

Other than logs, 

wood chips, 

extracts, powder

1. VERIFY by physical inspection 

that the articles are not logs or 

wood chips

2. The articles are not regulated 

by CITES; EXIT this manual

Quercus 

mongolica

(oak)

Any country  Logs 4

 Lumber 5

 Veneer 6

The articles are CITES Appendix 

III regulated

GO to Step 3: Determine Your 

Authority on page 2-28

Other than logs, 

lumber, veneer

1. VERIFY by physical inspection 

that the articles are not logs, 

lumber, veneer

2. The articles are not regulated 

by CITES; EXIT this manual

Senna 

meridionalis 

(taraby)

Any country All parts and 

derivatives 

including 

manufactured and 

finished products

The articles are CITES Appendix 

II regulated

GO to Step 3: Determine Your 

Authority on page 2-28

Table 2-4 Determine if a Timber Species Is Regulated by CITES Appendix I, Appendix II, or 

Appendix III (continued)

If the timber 

species is:

And the 

country of 

origin is:

And the parts or 

derivatives being 

imported are:

And: Then:
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 2-25

Swietenia 

humilis 

(Pacific Coast 

mahogany)

Any country All parts and 

derivatives, 

including 

manufactured and 

finished products17

The articles are CITES Appendix 

II regulated

GO to Step 3: Determine Your 

Authority on page 2-28

Swietenia 

macrophylla 

(bigleaf 

mahogany)

Neotropics18

(includes 

articles 

originating in 

the 

Neotropics 

that were reexported from 

another 

country), 

except Brazil 

or Nicaragua 

20

 Logs 4

 Lumber 5

 Plywood 19

 Veneer 6

The articles are CITES Appendix 

II regulated

GO to Step 3: Determine Your 

Authority on page 2-28

Other than logs, 

lumber, plywood, or 

veneer

1. VERIFY by physical inspection 

that the articles are not logs, 

lumber, plywood, or veneer

2. The articles are not regulated 

by CITES; EXIT this manual

Brazil or 

Nicaragua20

1. PLACE the shipment on HOLD

2. CONTACT the National CITES 

Specialist 21 for verification of 

the CITES documentation 

3. If the National CITES Specialist 

is not available, then contact 

the National CITES Coordinator 

21

Other than 

Brazil, the 

Neotropics, or 

Nicaragua

1. REVIEW the shipping 

documents to verify the country 

of origin is other than Brazil, the 

Neotropics,18 or Nicaragua

2. The articles are not regulated 

by CITES; EXIT this manual

Swietenia 

mahogani 

(Caribbean 

mahogany)

Any country  Logs 4

 Lumber 5

 Veneer 6

The articles are CITES Appendix 

II regulated

GO to Step 3: Determine Your 

Authority on page 2-28

Other than logs, 

lumber, or veneer

1. VERIFY, by physical inspection, 

that the articles are not logs, 

lumber, or veneer

2. The articles are not regulated 

by CITES; EXIT this manual

Tetracentron 

sinense 

(Tetracentron)

Any country All parts and 

derivatives, 

including 

manufactured and 

finished products 22

The articles are CITES Appendix 

III regulated

GO to Step 3: Determine Your 

Authority on page 2-28

Table 2-4 Determine if a Timber Species Is Regulated by CITES Appendix I, Appendix II, or 

Appendix III (continued)

If the timber 

species is:

And the 

country of 

origin is:

And the parts or 

derivatives being 

imported are:

And: Then:
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

2-26 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

Widdringtonia 

whytei

(Mulanje cedar)

Any country All parts and 

derivatives, 

including 

manufactured and 

finished products 

The articles are CITES Appendix 

II regulated

GO to Step 3: Determine Your 

Authority on page 2-28

1 Includes building material, cabinetmaking material, charcoal, firewood, flooring, food containers, fuel wood, furniture, joinery, 

light construction material, matches, particleboard, plywood, pulp/paper products, roof shingles, and veneer, etc.

2 Extract: Any substance obtained directly from plant material by physical or chemical means regardless of the manufacturing 

process. An extract may be solid (e.g., crystals, resin, fine or coarse particles), semi-solid (gums, waxes), or liquid (e.g., solutions, tinctures, oil and essential oils). 

3 Includes construction material, flooring, furniture, joinery, plywood, pulp/paper products, railroad ties, and vehicle parts, etc.

4 Includes railroad ties.

5 Populations of the Neotropics include the Caribbean, Central America, Mexico, and South America.

6 The term “10 kg per shipment” the 10 kg limit should be interpreted as referring to the weight of the individual portions of 

each item in the shipment made of the species concerned. In other words, the 10 kg limit is to be assessed against the weight 

of the individual portions of wood of Dalbergia/Guibourtia species contained in each item of the shipment, rather than against 

the total weight of the shipment.

7 Includes agricultural implements, bearings and bushings, barge and dock fenders, boat construction articles, chemical derivatives, cogs and shafts, cross ties, fishing rods, flooring, furniture, heavy construction and pulp mill equipment, railroad

ties, sporting goods, tool handles, turnery, and veneer, etc.

8 Includes agricultural implements, boat building materials (general), boat masts, boxes and crates, cabinetmaking materials, 

carvings, cigar boxes, construction materials, cooperages, flooring, food containers, fuel wood, furniture, furniture components, joinery, mathematical instruments, mine timbers, musical instruments, particleboard, pencils, piling, plywood, poles, 

pulp/paper products, shakes, shingles, sporting goods, toys, and vats, etc. See FWS-USDA-CITES Clearance of Musical 

Instruments.

9 Includes brush backs, building materials, ceilings, counter tops, door frames, dowels, flooring, furniture, joinery, mouldings, 

nonstriking handles (such as brooms and umbrellas), paneling, picture frames, plywood, pool cues and racks, rulers, shoji 

screens, stair treads, stringers, tool handles, toys, trays, tripods, turnery, venetian blinds, window blinds, and window frames, 

etc.

10 Manufactured products include: bearings and bushings, boat building materials (general), brush backs and handles, bush 

blocks, farm vehicles, furniture, golf club heads, machinery parts, marine construction material, mathematical instruments, 

naval architecture, pulley sheaves, railroad ties, shade rollers, sporting goods, tables, textile equipment, turnery, and wheels. 

Regulating depends on whether or not the products are finished, packaged, and ready for retail trade, etc.

11 Trade in this species is rare. If you encounter a regulated article made of this species, then contact the Manuals Unit (240-

529-0357) to add the article to this list.

12 Includes a variety of uses within the species’ natural range. If you encounter a regulated article made of this species, then

contact the Manuals Unit (240-529-0357) to add the article to this list, etc.

13 Transformed wood: Wood (including strips, friezes for parquet flooring, not assembled), continuously shaped (tongued, 

grooved, v-jointed, beaded or the like) along any edges, ends or faces, whether or not planed, sanded or end-jointed 

(as defined by Harmonized system code 44). 

14 Includes flooring, furniture, posts, and timber. (Wood is noted for its longevity in moist environments.)

15 Includes furniture, musical instruments, timber, and veneer, etc. 

16 Wood chips: Wood that has been reduced to small pieces.

17 Includes timber.

18 Populations of the Neotropics include the Caribbean, Central America, Mexico, and South America.

Table 2-4 Determine if a Timber Species Is Regulated by CITES Appendix I, Appendix II, or 

Appendix III (continued)

If the timber 

species is:

And the 

country of 

origin is:

And the parts or 

derivatives being 

imported are:

And: Then:
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 2-27

19 Plywood: Consisting of three or more sheets of wood glued and pressed one on the other and generally disposed so that the 

grains of successive layers are at an angle (HS Code 44.12.13, HS Code 44.12.14, and HS Code 44.12.22). See Harmonized System of World Customs Organization (HS) Codes.

20 There is a moratorium on the export of Swietenia macrophylla (bigleaf mahogany) from Brazil and Nicaragua. 

21 National CITES Specialist is Timothy Torbett, e-mail timothy.j.torbett@usda.gov. The National CITES Coordinator is John 

Veremis, e-mail john.veremis@usda.gov.

22 Trade in this species is rare. If you encounter a regulated article that is not listed, then contact the Manuals Unit, 240-529-

0357, to add the article to this list.
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

2-28 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

Step 3: Determine Your Authority

If you are not certain that your port is designated for the importation of CITES 

regulated timber species or articles, then check and confirm CITES ports:.

CBP AI Port Contacts for CITES Related Matters on page 6-2 or http://

www.aphis.usda.gov/import_export/plants/plant_imports/downloads/

cbp.pdf

PPQ see Designated CITES Ports and Plant Inspection Stations CITES Staff on 

page 5-1

If you are located at a CITES-designated port, then continue to Step 4: 

Determine Which Documents Are Needed. 

If you are not located at a CITES-designated port, then have the owner or 

owner’s agent arrange to move the shipment under Customs and Border 

Protection’s (CBP) bond to a designated port (at the owner’s expense). Notify 

the designated port of the pending arrival.

See Table 2-5 on page 2-30 to determine which documents are required for the 

importation of CITES Appendix I timber species.
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 2-29

Step 4: Determine Which Documents Are Needed

To determine which documents are needed for the legal importation of CITES 

regulated timber, use the appropriate table as follows:

CITES Appendix I, see Table 2-5

CITES Appendix II, see Table 2-6

CITES Appendix III, see Table 2-7

Required Documents for Importation of Appendix I Timber Species

The importation of a CITES Appendix I timber species is permitted when 

presented with appropriate documentation for the following categories of 

trade:

Articles derived from trees cut in the wild for non-commercial use 

(when presented with a CITES management authority-issued CITES 

Export Permit or Re-export Certificate designating a source code W for 

specimens collected from the wild; and a CITES Import Permit)

Articles derived from plantation-grown trees 

(when presented with a CITES management authority-issued CITES 

Export Permit or Re-export Certificate designating either source code A 

for artificially-propagated material being traded for non-commercial 

purposes; or source code D for artificially-propagated material being 

traded for commercial purposes)

Articles acquired prior to the date the Convention listed the species 

(when presented with a CITES management authority-issued CITES 

Other Certificate designating Pre-Convention specimens; and designating 

the date of acquisition or certification the specimens were acquired before 

the date first included in the CITES appendices) 

See Table 2-5 to determine which documents are required for the importation of 

CITES Appendix I regulated timber species.

NOTICE

In addition to any import permits and documents listed as required in this manual, 

additional import permits and other documentation may also be required under 

7 CFR 319.40. See the Wood and Wood Byproducts section of the Agricultural 

Commodity and Import Requirements database.

NOTICE

Commercial trade in CITES Appendix I species originating from the wild is 

prohibited.
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

2-30 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

Table 2-5 Determine Which Documents Are Needed for the Importation of CITES Appendix I Timber 

Species

If the article traded 

comes from:

And country 

of origin is:

And the 

permittee: And the importer: Then:

 Abies 

guatemalensis 

(Guatemalan fir)

 Araucaria 

araucana 

(monkey puzzle 

tree)

 Dalbergia nigra 

(Brazilian 

rosewood)

 Fitzroya 

cupressoides 

(alerce)

 Pilgerodendron 

uviferum 

(pilgerodendron)

 Podocarpus 

parlatorei 

(Parlatore’s 

podocarp)

Any country Is engaged in 

commercial 

business 1, 2

Presents a USDA-APHIS 

ePermits-issued Protected Plant 

Permit, and one of the following 

CITES-issued original 3

Appendix I documents: 

 Export Permit or Re-export 

Certificate designating source 

code D for artificially 

propagated (plantation 

grown) material being traded 

for commercial purposes 

 Other Certificate designating 

Pre-Convention specimens; 

and designating the date of 

acquisition or certification the 

specimens were acquired 

before the date first included 

in the CITES appendices

Other permits may be required 

under 7 CFR 319.40; see notice 

above 

GO to Step 5: Collect the 

Appropriate Documents 

Associated with the 

Shipment

Lacks the required CITES 

document

1. PLACE the shipment 

on HOLD

2. GO to Violations, 

Seizures, and 

Forfeitures on page 

4-1

Lacks a Protected Plant Permit ALLOW the exporter to 

apply for a Protected 

Plant Permit (see Confirm 

PPP Valid or Apply for a 

PPP on page 2-105)

Has an expired Protected Plant 

Permit

Is not

engaged in 

commercial 

business

GO to page 2-31

NOTICE

Use these guidelines in conjunction with 7CFR 319.40 (see the “Wood and Other Forest Products 

(Articles of the Timber and Lumber Industry)” section of the Wood and Wood Byproducts section of the 

Agricultural Commodity and Import Requirements database and the Plant Protection Act. When applying 

these guidelines, first apply the regulations that prevent the entry of plant pests. In addition to a USDAAPHIS ePermits-issued Protected Plant Permit, many wood and forest products also require PPQ Form 

597, Import Permit for Plants and Plant Products (see also PPQ Form 585, Application to Import Timber or 

Timber Products)
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 2-31

 Abies 

guatemalensis 

(Guatemalan fir)

 Araucaria 

araucana 

(monkey puzzle 

tree)

 Dalbergia nigra 

(Brazilian 

rosewood)

 Fitzroya 

cupressoides 

(alerce)

 Pilgerodendron 

uviferum 

(pilgerodendron)

 Podocarpus 

parlatorei 

(Parlatore’s 

podocarp)

Any country Is not

engaged in 

commercial 

business

Presents both of the following 

CITES-issued original 3

Appendix I documents:

 Import Permit

 Export Permit or Re-export 

Certificate designating source 

code W for specimens 

collected from the wild

OR

Presents one of the following 

CITES management authorityissued original Appendix I 

documents:

 Export Permit or Re-export 

Certificate designating source 

code A for artificially 

propagated (plantation 

grown) material being traded 

for noncommercial purposes

 Other Certificate designating 

Pre-Convention specimens; 

and designating the date of 

acquisition or certification the 

specimens were acquired 

before the date first included 

in the CITES appendices

Other permits may be required 

under 7 CFR 319.40; see the 

notice on page 2-30

GO to Step 5: Collect the 

Appropriate Documents 

Associated with the 

Shipment on page 2-97

Lacks the required CITES 

document

1. PLACE the shipment 

on HOLD

2. GO to Violations, 

Seizures, and 

Forfeitures on page 

4-1

1 Engaged in commercial business is defined as trade for the purpose of selling, bartering, collecting, or otherwise as a 

livelihood for gain or profit.

2 Commercial trade in CITES Appendix I species originating from the wild is prohibited.

3 A CITES-issued original is defined as an original CITES document issued by a CITES Management Authority or an authority 

authorized by a CITES Management Authority.

Table 2-5 Determine Which Documents Are Needed for the Importation of CITES Appendix I Timber 

Species (continued)

If the article traded 

comes from:

And country 

of origin is:

And the 

permittee: And the importer: Then:
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

2-32 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

Required Documents for Importation of Appendix II Timber Species

The importation of CITES Appendix II timber species is permitted when 

presented with the appropriate CITES documentation for the following 

categories of trade:

Articles derived from trees cut in the wild 

(when presented with a CITES management authority-issued CITES 

Export Permit or Re-export Certificate designating source code W for 

specimens collected from the wild)

Articles derived from plantation-grown trees 

(when presented CITES management authority-issued CITES Export 

Permit or Re-export Certificate designating source code A for artificial 

propagation)

Articles acquired prior to the date the CITES Convention listed the 

species

(when presented with a CITES management authority-issued CITES 

Other Certificate designating Pre-Convention specimens; and designating 

the date of acquisition or certification the specimens were acquired before 

the date first included in the CITES appendices)

See Table 2-6 on page 2-33 to determine which documents are required for the 

importation of CITES Appendix II regulated timber species.
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 2-33

Table 2-6 Determine Which Documents Are Needed for the Importation of CITES Appendix II Regulated 

Timber Species

If the article traded 

comes from:

And country 

of origin is:

And the 

permittee: And the importer: Then:

NOTICE

Use these guidelines in conjunction with 7 CFR 319.40, and see the Wood and Wood Byproducts section of 

the Agricultural Commodity and Import Requirements database and the Plant Protection Act. When 

applying these guidelines, first apply the regulations that prevent the entry of plant pests. In addition to a 

USDA-APHIS ePermits-issued Protected Plant Permit, many wood and forest products also require PPQ 

Form 597, Import Permit for Plants and Plant Products (see also PPQ Form 585, Application to Import 

Timber or Timber Products). 
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

2-34 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

Afzelia spp.

(pod mahogany)

African 

countries

Is engaged 

in 

commercial 

business 1

Presents a USDA-APHIS 

ePermits-issued 

Protected Plant Permit, and 

one of the following CITESissued original Appendix II 

documents 2

:

 Export Permit or

Re-export Certificate 

designating source code 

W for specimens collected 

from the wild or 

source code A for artificial 

propagation (plantation 

grown)

 Other Certificate 

designating 

Pre-Convention 

specimens; and 

designating the date of 

acquisition or certification 

the specimens were 

acquired before the date 

first included in the CITES 

appendices 

Other permits may be 

required under 7 CFR 319.40; 

see notice on page 2-33

GO to Step 5: Collect the 

Appropriate Documents 

Associated with the 

Shipment on page 2-97

Lacks the required CITES 

document

1. PLACE the shipment on 

HOLD

2. GO to Violations, 

Seizures, and 

Forfeitures on page 4-1

Lacks a Protected Plant 

Permit 

ALLOW the exporter to 

apply for a Protected Plant 

Permit (see Confirm PPP 

Valid or Apply for a PPP on 

page 2-105)

Has an expired Protected 

Plant Permit 

Is not in 

commercial 

business

GO to page 2-35

Table 2-6 Determine Which Documents Are Needed for the Importation of CITES Appendix II Regulated 

Timber Species (continued)

If the article traded 

comes from:

And country 

of origin is:

And the 

permittee: And the importer: Then:
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 2-35

Afzelia spp.

(pod mahogany)

African 

countries

Is not

engaged in 

commercial 

business 

Presents a USDA-APHIS 

ePermits-issued 

Protected Plant Permit, and 

one of the following 

CITES- issued original 5

Appendix II documents:

 Export Permit or 

Re-export Certificate 

designating source code 

W for specimens collected 

from the wild; or source 

code A for artificial 

propagation (plantation 

grown)

 Other Certificate 

designating

Pre-Convention 

specimens; and 

designating the date of 

acquisition or certification 

the specimens were 

acquired before the date 

first included in the CITES 

appendices 

Other permits may be 

required under 7 CFR 319.40; 

see notice on page 2-33

GO to Step 5: Collect the 

Appropriate Documents 

Associated with the 

Shipment on page 2-97

Lacks the required CITES 

document

1. PLACE the shipment on 

HOLD

2. GO to Violations, 

Seizures, and 

Forfeitures on page 4-1

Other than

African 

countries

Presents either one:

 Generic Certificate of 

Origin

OR

 Other conclusive proof of 

origin

1. REVIEW the shipping 

documents to verify the 

shipment is not from 

African countries.

2. If country of origin is not 

an African country, then 

the article is not

regulated by CITES

3. EXIT this manual

Lacks the required document 

listed in the cell above 

(does not have conclusive 

proof of origin)

1. PLACE the shipment on 

HOLD

2. CONTACT a PPQ 

Botanist 3

 for assistance

Table 2-6 Determine Which Documents Are Needed for the Importation of CITES Appendix II Regulated 

Timber Species (continued)

If the article traded 

comes from:

And country 

of origin is:

And the 

permittee: And the importer: Then:
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

2-36 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

 Adansonia 

grandidieri

(giant boabab)

 Aniba rosaeodora 

(Brazilian 

rosewood)

 Bulnesia 

sarmientoi 

(gaiacwood)

 Caryocar 

costaricense

(ajillo)

Any country Is engaged 

in 

commercial 

business 4

Presents a USDA-APHIS 

ePermits-issued 

Protected Plant Permit, and 

one of the following CITESissued original Appendix II 

documents 5

:

 Export Permit or

Re-export Certificate 

designating source code 

W for specimens collected 

from the wild or 

source code A for artificial 

propagation (plantation 

grown)

 Other Certificate 

designating 

Pre-Convention 

specimens; and 

designating the date of 

acquisition or certification 

the specimens were 

acquired before the date 

first included in the CITES 

appendices 

Other permits may be 

required under 7 CFR 319.40; 

see notice on page 2-33

GO to Step 5: Collect the 

Appropriate Documents 

Associated with the 

Shipment on page 2-97

Lacks the required CITES 

document

1. PLACE the shipment on 

HOLD

2. GO to Violations, 

Seizures, and 

Forfeitures on page 4-1

Lacks a Protected Plant 

Permit 

ALLOW the exporter to 

apply for a Protected Plant 

Permit (see Confirm PPP 

Valid or Apply for a PPP on 

page 2-105)

Has an expired Protected 

Plant Permit 

Is not in 

commercial 

business

GO to page 2-37

Table 2-6 Determine Which Documents Are Needed for the Importation of CITES Appendix II Regulated 

Timber Species (continued)

If the article traded 

comes from:

And country 

of origin is:

And the 

permittee: And the importer: Then:
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 2-37

 Adansonia 

grandidieri

(giant boabab)

 Aniba rosaeodora 

(Brazilian 

rosewood)

 Bulnesia 

sarmientoi 

(gaiacwood)

 Caryocar 

costaricense

(ajillo)

Any country Is not

engaged in 

commercial 

business 

Presents a USDA-APHIS 

ePermits-issued 

Protected Plant Permit, and 

one of the following 

CITES- issued original 5

Appendix II documents:

 Export Permit or 

Re-export Certificate 

designating source code 

W for specimens collected 

from the wild; or source 

code A for artificial 

propagation (plantation 

grown)

 Other Certificate 

designating

Pre-Convention 

specimens; and 

designating the date of 

acquisition or certification 

the specimens were 

acquired before the date 

first included in the CITES 

appendices 

Other permits may be 

required under 7 CFR 319.40; 

see notice on page 2-33

GO to Step 5: Collect the 

Appropriate Documents 

Associated with the 

Shipment on page 2-97

Lacks the required CITES 

document

1. PLACE the shipment on 

HOLD

2. GO to Violations, 

Seizures, and 

Forfeitures on page 4-1

Table 2-6 Determine Which Documents Are Needed for the Importation of CITES Appendix II Regulated 

Timber Species (continued)

If the article traded 

comes from:

And country 

of origin is:

And the 

permittee: And the importer: Then:
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

2-38 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

Cedrela spp. Neotropics 9 Is engaged 

in 

commercial 

business 4

Presents a USDA-APHIS 

ePermits-issued Protected 

Plant Permit, and one of the 

following CITES-issued

original 5

 Appendix II 

documents:

 Export Permit or 

Re-export Certificate 

designating source code 

W for specimens collected 

from the wild; or source 

code A for artificial 

propagation (plantation 

grown)

 Other Certificate

designating 

Pre-Convention 

specimens; and 

designating the date of 

acquisition or certification 

the specimens were 

acquired before the date 

first included in the CITES 

appendices 

Other permits may be 

required under 7 CFR 319.40; 

see notice on page 2-33

GO to Step 5: Collect the 

Appropriate Documents 

Associated with the 

Shipment on page 2-97

Lacks the required CITES 

document

1. PLACE the shipment on 

HOLD

2. GO to Violations, 

Seizures, and 

Forfeitures on page 4-1

Lacks a Protected Plant 

Permit

ALLOW the exporter to 

apply for a Protected Plant 

Permit (see Confirm PPP 

Valid or Apply for a PPP on 

page 2-105)

Has an expired Protected 

Plant Permit

ALLOW the exporter to 

apply for a Protected Plant 

Permit (see Confirm PPP 

Valid or Apply for a PPP)

Table 2-6 Determine Which Documents Are Needed for the Importation of CITES Appendix II Regulated 

Timber Species (continued)

If the article traded 

comes from:

And country 

of origin is:

And the 

permittee: And the importer: Then:
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 2-39

Cedrela spp. Neotropics 9

(includes 

articles 

originating in 

the Neotropics 

were 

re-exported 

from another 

country)

Is not

engaged in 

commercial 

business

Presents one of the following 

CITES-issued original 5

Appendix II documents:

 Export Permit or 

Re-export Certificate

designating source code 

W for specimens collected 

from the wild; or source 

code A for artificial 

propagation (plantation 

grown)

 Other Certificate 

designating 

Pre-Convention 

specimens; and 

designating the date of 

acquisition or certification 

the specimens were 

acquired before the date 

first included in the CITES 

appendices

Other permits may be 

required under 7 CFR 319.40; 

see notice on page 2-33

GO to Step 5: Collect the 

Appropriate Documents 

Associated with the 

Shipment on page 2-97

Lacks the required CITES 

document

1. PLACE the shipment on 

HOLD

2. GO to Violations, 

Seizures, and 

Forfeitures on page 4-1

Other than the 

Neotropics 9

Presents either one:

 Generic Certificate of 

Origin

OR

 Other conclusive proof of 

origin

1. REVIEW the shipping 

documents to verify the 

shipment is not from the 

the Neotropics

2. If country of origin is not

the Neotropics, then the 

article is not regulated 

by CITES

3. EXIT this manual

Lacks the required document 

listed in the cell above 

(does not have conclusive 

proof of origin)

1. PLACE the shipment on 

HOLD

2. CONTACT a PPQ 

Botanist 6

 for assistance

Table 2-6 Determine Which Documents Are Needed for the Importation of CITES Appendix II Regulated 

Timber Species (continued)

If the article traded 

comes from:

And country 

of origin is:

And the 

permittee: And the importer: Then:
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

2-40 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

 Dalbergia spp. 

(rosewoods) 

except CITES 

Appendix I 

Dalbergia nigra

Mexico Is engaged 

in 

commercial 

business 4

Presents a USDA-APHIS 

ePermits-issued Protected 

Plant Permit, and one of the 

following CITES- issued 

original 5 Appendix II 

documents:

 Export Permit or 

Re-export Certificate 

designating source code 

W for specimens collected 

from the wild; or source 

code A for artificial 

propagation (plantation 

grown)

 Other Certificate 

designating

Pre-Convention 

specimens; and 

designating the date of 

acquisition or certification 

the specimens were 

acquired before the date 

first included in the CITES 

appendices 

Other permits may be 

required under 7 CFR 319.40; 

see notice on page 2-33

GO to Step 5: Collect the 

Appropriate Documents 

Associated with the 

Shipment on page 2-97

Lacks the required CITES 

document

1. PLACE the shipment on 

HOLD

2. GO to Violations, 

Seizures, and 

Forfeitures on page 4-1

Lacks a Protected Plant 

Permit 

ALLOW the exporter to 

apply for a Protected Plant 

Permit (see Confirm PPP 

Valid or Apply for a PPP on 

page 2-105)

Has an expired Protected 

Plant Permit 

Is not

engaged in 

commercial 

business

GO to page 2-41

Table 2-6 Determine Which Documents Are Needed for the Importation of CITES Appendix II Regulated 

Timber Species (continued)

If the article traded 

comes from:

And country 

of origin is:

And the 

permittee: And the importer: Then:
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 2-41

 Dalbergia spp. 

(rosewoods) 

except CITES

Appendix I 

Dalbergia nigra

Mexico Is not

engaged in 

commercial 

business 

Presents one of the following 

CITES-issued original 5

CITES Appendix II 

documents:

 Export Permit or 

Re-export Certificate 

designating source code 

W for specimens collected 

from the wild; or source 

code A for artificial 

propagation (plantation 

grown)

 Other Certificate 

designating 

Pre-Convention 

specimens; and 

designating the date of 

acquisition or certification 

the specimens were 

acquired before the date 

first included in the CITES 

appendices 

Other permits may be 

required under 7 CFR 319.40; 

see notice on page 2-33

GO to Step 5: Collect the 

Appropriate Documents 

Associated with the 

Shipment on page 2-97

Lacks the required CITES 

document

1. PLACE the shipment on 

hold

2. GO to Violations, 

Seizures, and 

Forfeitures on page 4-1

Table 2-6 Determine Which Documents Are Needed for the Importation of CITES Appendix II Regulated 

Timber Species (continued)

If the article traded 

comes from:

And country 

of origin is:

And the 

permittee: And the importer: Then:
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

2-42 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

 Dalbergia spp. 

(rosewoods) 

except CITES 

Appendix I 

Dalbergia nigra

Other than 

Mexico

Is engaged 

in 

commercial 

business 

Presents a USDA-APHIS 

ePermits-issued Protected 

Plant Permit, and one of the 

following CITES- issued 

original 5 Appendix II 

documents:

 Export Permit or 

Re-export Certificate 

designating source code 

W for specimens collected 

from the wild; or source 

code A for artificial 

propagation (plantation 

grown)

 Other Certificate 

designating

Pre-Convention 

specimens; and 

designating the date of 

acquisition or certification 

the specimens were 

acquired before the date 

first included in the CITES 

appendices 

Other permits may be 

required under 7 CFR 319.40; 

see notice on page 2-33

GO to Step 5: Collect the 

Appropriate Documents 

Associated with the 

Shipment on page 2-97

Lacks the required CITES 

document

1. PLACE the shipment on 

HOLD

2. GO to Violations, 

Seizures, and 

Forfeitures on page 4-1

Lacks a Protected Plant 

Permit 

ALLOW the exporter to 

apply for a Protected Plant 

Permit (see Confirm PPP 

Valid or Apply for a PPP on 

page 2-105)

Has an expired Protected 

Plant Permit 

Is not

engaged in 

commercial 

business

GO to page 2-43

Table 2-6 Determine Which Documents Are Needed for the Importation of CITES Appendix II Regulated 

Timber Species (continued)

If the article traded 

comes from:

And country 

of origin is:

And the 

permittee: And the importer: Then:
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 2-43

 Dalbergia spp. 

(rosewoods) 

except CITES 

Appendix I 

Dalbergia nigra

Other than 

Mexico 

Is not

engaged in 

commercial 

business 

and the 

articles 

weigh more 

than 10 kg 

per 

shipment

Presents one of the following 

CITES-issued original 5

CITES Appendix II 

documents:

 Export Permit or 

Re-export Certificate 

designating source code 

W for specimens collected 

from the wild; or source 

code A for artificial 

propagation (plantation 

grown)

 Other Certificate 

designating 

Pre-Convention 

specimens; and 

designating the date of 

acquisition or certification 

the specimens were 

acquired before the date 

first included in the CITES 

appendices 

Other permits may be 

required under 7 CFR 319.40; 

see notice on page 2-33

GO to Step 5: Collect the 

Appropriate Documents 

Associated with the 

Shipment on page 2-97

Lacks the required CITES 

document

1. PLACE the shipment on 

hold

2. GO to Violations, 

Seizures, and 

Forfeitures on page 4-1

Table 2-6 Determine Which Documents Are Needed for the Importation of CITES Appendix II Regulated 

Timber Species (continued)

If the article traded 

comes from:

And country 

of origin is:

And the 

permittee: And the importer: Then:
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

2-44 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

 Diospyros spp.7

(ebonies) 

Madagascar 

(including 

articles 

originating 

from 

Madagascar 

that were reexported to 

another 

country)

Is engaged 

in 

commercial 

business 4

Presents a USDA-APHIS 

ePermits-issued Protected 

Plant Permit, and one of the 

following CITES issued 

original 5 Appendix II 

documents:

 Export Permit or 

Re-export Certificate 

designating source code 

W for specimens collected 

from the wild; or source 

code A for artificial 

propagation (plantation 

grown)

 Other Certificate 

designating 

Pre-Convention 

specimens; and 

designating the date of 

acquisition or certification 

the specimens were 

acquired before the date 

first included in the CITES 

appendices 

Other permits may be 

required under 7 CFR 319.40; 

see notice on page 2-33

GO to Step 5: Collect the 

Appropriate Documents 

Associated with the 

Shipment on page 2-97

Lacks the required CITES 

document

1. PLACE the shipment on 

HOLD

2. GO to Violations, 

Seizures, and 

Forfeitures on page 4-1

Lacks a Protected Plant 

Permit 

ALLOW the exporter to 

apply for a Protected Plant 

Permit (see Confirm PPP 

Valid or Apply for a PPP on 

page 2-105)

Has an expired Protected 

Plant Permit

ALLOW the exporter to 

apply for a Protected Plant 

Permit (see Confirm PPP 

Valid or Apply for a PPP)

Is not

engaged in 

commercial 

business

GO to page 2-45

Table 2-6 Determine Which Documents Are Needed for the Importation of CITES Appendix II Regulated 

Timber Species (continued)

If the article traded 

comes from:

And country 

of origin is:

And the 

permittee: And the importer: Then:
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 2-45

 Diospyros spp.7

(Madagasy 

ebonies) 

Madagascar 

(including 

articles 

originating 

from 

Madagascar 

that were reexported to 

another 

country)

Is not

engaged in 

commercial 

business

Presents one of the following 

CITES issued original 5

Appendix II documents:

 Export Permit or 

Re-export Certificate

designating source code 

W for specimens collected 

from the wild; or source 

code A for artificial 

propagation (plantation 

grown)

 Other Certificate 

designating 

Pre-Convention 

specimens; and 

designating the date of 

acquisition or certification 

the specimens were 

acquired before the date 

first included in the CITES 

appendices 

Other permits may be 

required under 7 CFR 319.40; 

see notice on page 2-33

GO to Step 5: Collect the 

Appropriate Documents 

Associated with the 

Shipment on page 2-97

Lacks the required CITES 

document

1. PLACE the shipment on 

HOLD

2. GO to Violations, 

Seizures, and 

Forfeitures on page 4-1

Table 2-6 Determine Which Documents Are Needed for the Importation of CITES Appendix II Regulated 

Timber Species (continued)

If the article traded 

comes from:

And country 

of origin is:

And the 

permittee: And the importer: Then:
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

2-46 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

 Gonystylus spp. 

(ramin)

 Guaiacum spp. 

(lignum vitae)

 Guibourtia 

demeusei

(red bubinga) 

 Guibourtia 

pellegriniana 

(rose bubinga) 

 Guibourtia 

tessmannii 

(rose bubinga) 

Any country Is engaged 

in 

commercial 

business 4

Presents a USDA-APHIS 

ePermits-issued Protected 

Plant Permit, and one of the 

following CITES management 

authority issued original 5

Appendix II documents:

 Export Permit or 

Re-export Certificate 

designating source code 

W for specimens collected 

from the wild; or source 

code A for artificial 

propagation (plantation 

grown)

 Other Certificate 

designating 

Pre-Convention 

specimens; and 

designating the date of 

acquisition or certification 

the specimens were 

acquired before the date 

first included in the CITES 

appendices 

Other permits may be 

required under 7 CFR 319.40; 

see notice on page 2-33

GO to Step 5: Collect the 

Appropriate Documents 

Associated with the 

Shipment on page 2-97

Lacks the required CITES 

document

1. PLACE the shipment on 

HOLD

2. GO to Violations, 

Seizures, and 

Forfeitures on page 4-1

Lacks a Protected Plant 

Permit 

ALLOW the exporter to 

apply for a Protected Plant 

Permit (see Confirm PPP 

Valid or Apply for a PPP on 

page 2-105)

Has an expired Protected 

Plant Permit

ALLOW the exporter to 

apply for a Protected Plant 

Permit (see Confirm PPP 

Valid or Apply for a PPP on 

page 2-105)

Is not

engaged in 

commercial 

business

GO to page 2-47

Table 2-6 Determine Which Documents Are Needed for the Importation of CITES Appendix II Regulated 

Timber Species (continued)

If the article traded 

comes from:

And country 

of origin is:

And the 

permittee: And the importer: Then:
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 2-47

 Gonystylus spp. 

(ramin)

 Guaiacum spp. 

(lignum vitae)

 Guibourtia 

demeusei

(red bubinga) 

 Guibourtia 

pellegriniana 

(rose bubinga) 

 Guibourtia 

tessmannii 

(rose bubinga) 

Any country Is not

engaged in 

commercial 

business

Presents one of the following 

CITES-issued original 5

Appendix II documents:

 Export Permit or 

Re-export Certificate

designating source code 

W for specimens collected 

from the wild; or source 

code A for artificial 

propagation (plantation 

grown)

 Other Certificate 

designating 

Pre-Convention 

specimens; and 

designating the date of 

acquisition or certification 

the specimens were 

acquired before the date 

first included in the CITES 

appendices 

Other permits may be 

required under 7 CFR 319.40; 

see notice on page 2-33

GO to Step 5: Collect the 

Appropriate Documents 

Associated with the 

Shipment on page 2-97

Lacks the required CITES 

document

1. PLACE the shipment on 

HOLD

2. GO to Violations, 

Seizures, and 

Forfeitures on page 4-1

Table 2-6 Determine Which Documents Are Needed for the Importation of CITES Appendix II Regulated 

Timber Species (continued)

If the article traded 

comes from:

And country 

of origin is:

And the 

permittee: And the importer: Then:
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

2-48 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

Khaya spp. (African 

mahogany)

African 

countries

Is engaged 

in 

commercial 

business 4

Presents a USDA-APHIS 

ePermits-issued Protected 

Plant Permit, and one of the 

following CITES management 

authority issued original 5

Appendix II documents:

 Export Permit or 

Re-export Certificate 

designating source code 

W for specimens collected 

from the wild; or source 

code A for artificial 

propagation (plantation 

grown)

 Other Certificate 

designating 

Pre-Convention 

specimens; and 

designating the date of 

acquisition or certification 

the specimens were 

acquired before the date 

first included in the CITES 

appendices 

Other permits may be 

required under 7 CFR 319.40; 

see notice on page 2-33

GO to Step 5: Collect the 

Appropriate Documents 

Associated with the 

Shipment on page 2-97

Lacks the required CITES 

document

1. PLACE the shipment on 

HOLD

2. GO to Violations, 

Seizures, and 

Forfeitures on page 4-1

Lacks a Protected Plant 

Permit 

ALLOW the exporter to 

apply for a Protected Plant 

Permit (see Confirm PPP 

Valid or Apply for a PPP on 

page 2-105)

Has an expired Protected 

Plant Permit

ALLOW the exporter to 

apply for a Protected Plant 

Permit (see Confirm PPP 

Valid or Apply for a PPP on 

page 2-105)

Is not

engaged in 

commercial 

business

GO to page 2-49

Table 2-6 Determine Which Documents Are Needed for the Importation of CITES Appendix II Regulated 

Timber Species (continued)

If the article traded 

comes from:

And country 

of origin is:

And the 

permittee: And the importer: Then:
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 2-49

Khaya spp. (African 

mahogany)

African 

countries

Is not

engaged in 

commercial 

business

Presents one of the following 

CITES-issued original 5

Appendix II documents:

 Export Permit or 

Re-export Certificate

designating source code 

W for specimens collected 

from the wild; or source 

code A for artificial 

propagation (plantation 

grown)

 Other Certificate 

designating 

Pre-Convention 

specimens; and 

designating the date of 

acquisition or certification 

the specimens were 

acquired before the date 

first included in the CITES 

appendices 

Other permits may be 

required under 7 CFR 319.40; 

see notice on page 2-33

GO to Step 5: Collect the 

Appropriate Documents 

Associated with the 

Shipment on page 2-97

Lacks the required CITES 

document

1. PLACE the shipment on 

HOLD

2. GO to Violations, 

Seizures, and 

Forfeitures on page 4-1

Other than

African 

countries

Presents either one:

 Generic Certificate of 

Origin

OR

 Other conclusive proof of 

origin

1. REVIEW the shipping 

documents to verify the 

shipment is not from 

African countries.

2. If country of origin is not 

an African country, then 

the article is not

regulated by CITES

3. EXIT this manual

Table 2-6 Determine Which Documents Are Needed for the Importation of CITES Appendix II Regulated 

Timber Species (continued)

If the article traded 

comes from:

And country 

of origin is:

And the 

permittee: And the importer: Then:
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

2-50 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

Oreomunnea 

pterocarpa

(gavilan)

Any country Is engaged 

in 

commercial 

business 4

Presents a USDA-APHIS 

ePermits-issued Protected 

Plant Permit, and one of the 

following CITES management 

authority issued original 5

Appendix II documents:

 Export Permit or 

Re-export Certificate 

designating source code 

W for specimens collected 

from the wild; or source 

code A for artificial 

propagation (plantation 

grown)

 Other Certificate 

designating 

Pre-Convention 

specimens; and 

designating the date of 

acquisition or certification 

the specimens were 

acquired before the date 

first included in the CITES 

appendices 

Other permits may be 

required under 7 CFR 319.40; 

see notice on page 2-33

GO to Step 5: Collect the 

Appropriate Documents 

Associated with the 

Shipment on page 2-97

Lacks the required CITES 

document

1. PLACE the shipment on 

HOLD

2. GO to Violations, 

Seizures, and 

Forfeitures on page 4-1

Lacks a Protected Plant 

Permit 

ALLOW the exporter to 

apply for a Protected Plant 

Permit (see Confirm PPP 

Valid or Apply for a PPP on 

page 2-105)

Has an expired Protected 

Plant Permit

ALLOW the exporter to 

apply for a Protected Plant 

Permit (see Confirm PPP 

Valid or Apply for a PPP on 

page 2-105)

Is not

engaged in 

commercial 

business

GO to page 2-51

Table 2-6 Determine Which Documents Are Needed for the Importation of CITES Appendix II Regulated 

Timber Species (continued)

If the article traded 

comes from:

And country 

of origin is:

And the 

permittee: And the importer: Then:
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 2-51

Oreomunnea 

pterocarpa

(gavilan)

Any country Is not

engaged in 

commercial 

business

Presents one of the following 

CITES-issued original 5

Appendix II documents:

 Export Permit or 

Re-export Certificate

designating source code 

W for specimens collected 

from the wild; or source 

code A for artificial 

propagation (plantation 

grown)

 Other Certificate 

designating 

Pre-Convention 

specimens; and 

designating the date of 

acquisition or certification 

the specimens were 

acquired before the date 

first included in the CITES 

appendices 

Other permits may be 

required under 7 CFR 319.40; 

see notice on page 2-33

GO to Step 5: Collect the 

Appropriate Documents 

Associated with the 

Shipment on page 2-97

Lacks the required CITES 

document

1. PLACE the shipment on 

HOLD

2. GO to Violations, 

Seizures, and 

Forfeitures on page 4-1

Table 2-6 Determine Which Documents Are Needed for the Importation of CITES Appendix II Regulated 

Timber Species (continued)

If the article traded 

comes from:

And country 

of origin is:

And the 

permittee: And the importer: Then:
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

2-52 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

Osyris lanceolata 

(African sandalwood)

Burundi

Ethiopia

Kenya

Rwanda

Uganda

United 

Republic of 

Tanzania 

(includes 

articles 

originating in 

Burundi, 

Ethiopia, 

Kenya, 

Rwanda, 

Uganda, or 

United 

Republic of 

Tanzania that 

were 

re-exported 

from another 

country)

Is engaged 

in 

commercial 

business 4

Lacks the required CITES 

document

1. PLACE the shipment on 

HOLD

2. GO to Violations, 

Seizures, and 

Forfeitures on page 4-1

Lacks the required CITES 

document

1. PLACE the shipment on 

HOLD

2. GO to Violations, 

Seizures, and 

Forfeitures on page 4-1

Lacks a Protected Plant 

Permit 

ALLOW the exporter to 

apply for a Protected Plant 

Permit (see Confirm PPP 

Valid or Apply for a PPP on 

page 2-105)

Has an expired Protected 

Plant Permit

ALLOW the exporter to 

apply for a Protected Plant 

Permit (see Confirm PPP 

Valid or Apply for a PPP on 

page 2-105)

Is not

engaged in 

commercial 

business

GO to page 2-53

Table 2-6 Determine Which Documents Are Needed for the Importation of CITES Appendix II Regulated 

Timber Species (continued)

If the article traded 

comes from:

And country 

of origin is:

And the 

permittee: And the importer: Then:
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 2-53

Osyris lanceolata 

(sandalwood) 

Burundi, 

Ethiopia, 

Kenya, 

Rwanda, 

Uganda, 

United 

Republic of 

Tanzania 

(includes 

articles 

originating in 

Burundi, 

Ethiopia, 

Kenya, 

Rwanda, 

Uganda, or 

United 

Republic of 

Tanzania that 

were 

re-exported 

from another 

country)

Is not

engaged in 

commercial 

business

Presents one of the following 

CITES management 

authority-issued original 5

Appendix II documents:

 Export Permit or 

Re-export Certificate 

designating source code 

W for specimens collected 

from the wild; or source 

code A for artificial 

propagation (plantation 

grown)

 Other Certificate 

designating 

Pre-Convention 

specimens; and 

designating the date of 

acquisition or certification 

the specimens were 

acquired before the date 

first included in the CITES 

appendices 

Other permits may be 

required under 7 CFR 319.40; 

see notice on page 2-33

GO to Step 5: Collect the 

Appropriate Documents 

Associated with the 

Shipment on page 2-97

Lacks the required CITES 

document

1. PLACE the shipment on 

HOLD

2. GO to Violations, 

Seizures, and 

Forfeitures on page 4-1

Table 2-6 Determine Which Documents Are Needed for the Importation of CITES Appendix II Regulated 

Timber Species (continued)

If the article traded 

comes from:

And country 

of origin is:

And the 

permittee: And the importer: Then:
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

2-54 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

 Paubrasilia 

echinata

(Brazilwood)

 Pericopsis elata 

(afrormosia)

 Platymiscium 

pleiostachyum 

(cristobal, 

granadillo)

 Prunus 

africana (African 

rosewood) 

Any country Is engaged 

in 

commercial 

business 4

Presents a USDA-APHIS 

ePermits-issued Protected 

Plant Permit, and one of the 

following CITES management

authority-issued original 5

Appendix II documents:

 Export Permit or 

Re-export Certificate 

designating 

source code W for 

specimens collected from 

the wild; or 

source code A for artificial 

propagation (plantation 

grown)

 Other Certificate 

designating 

Pre-Convention 

specimens; and 

designating the date of 

acquisition or certification 

the specimens were 

acquired before the date 

first included in the CITES 

appendices 

Other permits may be 

required under 7 CFR 319.40; 

see notice on page 2-33

GO to Step 5: Collect the 

Appropriate Documents 

Associated with the 

Shipment on page 2-97

Lacks the required CITES 

document

1. PLACE the shipment on 

HOLD

2. GO to Violations, 

Seizures, and 

Forfeitures on page 4-1

Lacks a Protected Plant 

Permit 

ALLOW the exporter to 

apply for a Protected Plant 

Permit (see Confirm PPP 

Valid or Apply for a PPP on 

page 2-105)

Has an expired Protected 

Plant Permit

ALLOW the exporter to 

apply for a Protected Plant 

Permit (see Confirm PPP 

Valid or Apply for a PPP on 

page 2-105)

Is not

engaged in 

commercial 

business

GO to page 2-55

Table 2-6 Determine Which Documents Are Needed for the Importation of CITES Appendix II Regulated 

Timber Species (continued)

If the article traded 

comes from:

And country 

of origin is:

And the 

permittee: And the importer: Then:
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 2-55

 Paubrasilia 

echinata

(Brazilwood)

 Pericopsis elata 

(afrormosia)

 Platymiscium 

pleiostachyum 

(cristobal, 

granadillo)

 Prunus 

africana (African 

rosewood) 

Any country Is not

engaged in 

commercial 

business

Presents one of the following 

CITES-issued original 5

Appendix II documents:

 Export Permit or 

Re-export Certificate 

designating 

source code W for 

specimens collected from 

the wild; or 

source code A for artificial 

propagation (plantation 

grown)

 Other Certificate 

designating 

Pre-Convention 

specimens; and 

designating the date of 

acquisition or certification 

the specimens were 

acquired before the date 

first included in the CITES 

appendices 

Other permits may be 

required under 7 CFR 319.40; 

see notice on page 2-33

GO to Step 5: Collect the 

Appropriate Documents 

Associated with the 

Shipment on page 2-97

Lacks the required CITES 

document

1. PLACE the shipment on 

HOLD

2. GO to Violations, 

Seizures, and 

Forfeitures on page 4-1

Table 2-6 Determine Which Documents Are Needed for the Importation of CITES Appendix II Regulated 

Timber Species (continued)

If the article traded 

comes from:

And country 

of origin is:

And the 

permittee: And the importer: Then:
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

2-56 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

Pterocarpus spp.

(African rosewood, 

kosso)

except

Pterocarpus 

santalinus (red 

sandalwood, 

redsanders)

African 

countries

Is engaged 

in 

commercial 

business 4

Presents a USDA-APHIS 

ePermits-issued Protected 

Plant Permit, and one of the 

following CITES management

authority-issued original 5

Appendix II documents:

 Export Permit or 

Re-export Certificate 

designating 

source code W for 

specimens collected from 

the wild; or 

source code A for artificial 

propagation (plantation 

grown)

 Other Certificate 

designating 

Pre-Convention 

specimens; and 

designating the date of 

acquisition or certification 

the specimens were 

acquired before the date 

first included in the CITES 

appendices 

Other permits may be 

required under 7 CFR 319.40; 

see notice on page 2-33

GO to Step 5: Collect the 

Appropriate Documents 

Associated with the 

Shipment on page 2-97

Lacks the required CITES 

document

1. PLACE the shipment on 

HOLD

2. GO to Violations, 

Seizures, and 

Forfeitures on page 4-1

Lacks a Protected Plant 

Permit 

ALLOW the exporter to 

apply for a Protected Plant 

Permit (see Confirm PPP 

Valid or Apply for a PPP on 

page 2-105)

Has an expired Protected 

Plant Permit

ALLOW the exporter to 

apply for a Protected Plant 

Permit (see Confirm PPP 

Valid or Apply for a PPP on 

page 2-105)

Is not

engaged in 

commercial 

business

GO to page 2-57

Table 2-6 Determine Which Documents Are Needed for the Importation of CITES Appendix II Regulated 

Timber Species (continued)

If the article traded 

comes from:

And country 

of origin is:

And the 

permittee: And the importer: Then:
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 2-57

Pterocarpus spp.

(African rosewood, 

kosso)

except

Pterocarpus 

santalinus (red 

sandalwood, 

redsanders)

African 

countries

Is not

engaged in 

commercial 

business

Presents one of the following 

CITES-issued original 5

Appendix II documents:

 Export Permit or 

Re-export Certificate 

designating 

source code W for 

specimens collected from 

the wild; or 

source code A for artificial 

propagation (plantation 

grown)

 Other Certificate 

designating 

Pre-Convention 

specimens; and 

designating the date of 

acquisition or certification 

the specimens were 

acquired before the date 

first included in the CITES 

appendices 

Other permits may be 

required under 7 CFR 319.40; 

see notice on page 2-33

GO to Step 5: Collect the 

Appropriate Documents 

Associated with the 

Shipment on page 2-97

Lacks the required CITES 

document

1. PLACE the shipment on 

HOLD

2. GO to Violations, 

Seizures, and 

Forfeitures on page 4-1

Other than

African 

countries

Presents either one:

 Generic Certificate of 

Origin

OR

 Other conclusive proof of 

origin

1. REVIEW the shipping 

documents to verify the 

shipment is not from 

African countries.

2. If country of origin is not 

an African country, then 

the article is not

regulated by CITES

3. EXIT this manual

Table 2-6 Determine Which Documents Are Needed for the Importation of CITES Appendix II Regulated 

Timber Species (continued)

If the article traded 

comes from:

And country 

of origin is:

And the 

permittee: And the importer: Then:
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

2-58 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

 Pterocarpus 

santalinus 

(red sandalwood, 

redsanders)

 Senna 

meridionalis

(taraby)

 Swietenia humilis 

(Pacific Coast 

mahogany)

Any country Is engaged 

in 

commercial 

business 4

Presents a USDA-APHIS 

ePermits-issued Protected 

Plant Permit, and one of the 

following CITES management

authority-issued original 5

Appendix II documents:

 Export Permit or 

Re-export Certificate 

designating 

source code W for 

specimens collected from 

the wild; or 

source code A for artificial 

propagation (plantation 

grown)

 Other Certificate 

designating 

Pre-Convention 

specimens; and 

designating the date of 

acquisition or certification 

the specimens were 

acquired before the date 

first included in the CITES 

appendices 

Other permits may be 

required under 7 CFR 319.40; 

see notice on page 2-33

GO to Step 5: Collect the 

Appropriate Documents 

Associated with the 

Shipment on page 2-97

Lacks the required CITES 

document

1. PLACE the shipment on 

HOLD

2. GO to Violations, 

Seizures, and 

Forfeitures on page 4-1

Lacks a Protected Plant 

Permit 

ALLOW the exporter to 

apply for a Protected Plant 

Permit (see Confirm PPP 

Valid or Apply for a PPP on 

page 2-105)

Has an expired Protected 

Plant Permit

ALLOW the exporter to 

apply for a Protected Plant 

Permit (see Confirm PPP 

Valid or Apply for a PPP on 

page 2-105)

Is not

engaged in 

commercial 

business

GO to page 2-59

Table 2-6 Determine Which Documents Are Needed for the Importation of CITES Appendix II Regulated 

Timber Species (continued)

If the article traded 

comes from:

And country 

of origin is:

And the 

permittee: And the importer: Then:
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 2-59

 Pterocarpus 

santalinus 

(red sandalwood, 

redsanders)

 Senna 

meridionalis

(taraby)

 Swietenia humilis 

(Pacific Coast 

mahogany)

Any country Is not

engaged in 

commercial 

business

Presents one of the following 

CITES-issued original 5

Appendix II documents:

 Export Permit or 

Re-export Certificate 

designating 

source code W for 

specimens collected from 

the wild; or 

source code A for artificial 

propagation (plantation 

grown)

 Other Certificate 

designating 

Pre-Convention 

specimens; and 

designating the date of 

acquisition or certification 

the specimens were 

acquired before the date 

first included in the CITES 

appendices 

Other permits may be 

required under 7 CFR 319.40; 

see notice on page 2-33

GO to Step 5: Collect the 

Appropriate Documents 

Associated with the 

Shipment on page 2-97

Lacks the required CITES 

document

1. PLACE the shipment on 

HOLD

2. GO to Violations, 

Seizures, and 

Forfeitures on page 4-1

Table 2-6 Determine Which Documents Are Needed for the Importation of CITES Appendix II Regulated 

Timber Species (continued)

If the article traded 

comes from:

And country 

of origin is:

And the 

permittee: And the importer: Then:
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

2-60 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

 Swietenia 

macrophylla 8

(bigleaf 

mahogany)

Neotropics 9

(includes 

articles 

originating in 

the Neotropics 

that were 

re-exported 

from another 

country, 

except Brazil 

and 

Nicaragua 10)

Is engaged 

in 

commercial 

business 4

Presents a USDA-APHIS 

ePermits-issued Protected 

Plant Permit, and one of the 

following CITES issued 

original 5

 Appendix II

documents:

 Export Permit or 

Re-export Certificate 

designating source code 

W for specimens collected 

from the wild; or source 

code A for artificial 

propagation (plantation 

grown)

 Other Certificate 

designating PreConvention specimens; 

and designating the date 

of acquisition or 

certification that the 

specimens were acquired 

before the date first 

included in the CITES 

appendices 

Other permits may be 

required under 7 CFR 319.40; 

see notice on page 2-33

GO to Step 5: Collect the 

Appropriate Documents 

Associated with the 

Shipment on page 2-97

Lacks the required CITES 

document

1. PLACE the shipment on 

HOLD

2. GO to Violations, 

Seizures, and 

Forfeitures on page 4-1

Lacks a Protected Plant 

Permit 

ALLOW the exporter to 

apply for a Protected Plant 

Permit (see Confirm PPP 

Valid or Apply for a PPP on 

page 2-105)

Has an expired Protected 

Plant Permit

Brazil or 

Nicaragua 

1. Place the shipment on 

HOLD

2. CONTACT the National 

CITES Specialist 11 for 

verification of the CITES 

documentation; if not

available, then contact 

National CITES 

Coordinator 12

Other than 

listed above

GO to page 2-61

Table 2-6 Determine Which Documents Are Needed for the Importation of CITES Appendix II Regulated 

Timber Species (continued)

If the article traded 

comes from:

And country 

of origin is:

And the 

permittee: And the importer: Then:
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 2-61

 Swietenia 

macrophylla 8

(bigleaf 

mahogany)

Neotropics 9

(includes 

articles 

originating in 

the Neotropics 

that were 

re-exported 

from another 

country, 

except Brazil 

and 

Nicaragua 10)

Is not

engaged in 

commercial 

business

Presents one of the following 

CITES-issued original 5

Appendix II documents:

 Export Permit or

Re-export Certificate 

designating source code 

W for specimens collected 

from the wild; or source 

code A for artificial 

propagation (plantation 

grown)

 Other Certificate 

designating 

Pre-Convention 

specimens; and 

designating the date of 

acquisition or certification 

the specimens were 

acquired before the date 

first included in the CITES 

appendices 

Other permits may be 

required under 7 CFR 319.40; 

see notice on page 2-33

GO to Step 5: Collect the 

Appropriate Documents 

Associated with the 

Shipment on page 2-97

Lacks the required CITES 

document

1. PLACE the shipment on 

HOLD

2. GO to Violations, 

Seizures, and 

Forfeitures on page 4-1

Brazil or 

Nicaragua 10

1. PLACE the shipment on 

HOLD

2. CONTACT the National 

CITES Specialist 11 for 

verification of the CITES 

documentation; and if 

the National CITES 

Specialist is not

available, then contact 

the National CITES 

Coordinator 12

Other than 

Brazil, 

Neotropics, 

Nicaragua

1. REVIEW the shipping 

documents to verify the 

country of origin is not

Brazil, the Neotropics 9

, 

and Nicaragua

2. The articles are not

regulated by CITES; 

EXIT this manual

Table 2-6 Determine Which Documents Are Needed for the Importation of CITES Appendix II Regulated 

Timber Species (continued)

If the article traded 

comes from:

And country 

of origin is:

And the 

permittee: And the importer: Then:
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

2-62 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

 Swietenia 

mahogani 

(Caribbean 

mahogany)

Any country Is engaged 

in 

commercial 

business 4

Presents a USDA-APHIS 

ePermits-issued Protected 

Plant Permit, and one of the 

following CITES-issued

original 5

 Appendix II 

documents:

 Export Permit or 

Re-export Certificate 

designating source code 

W for specimens collected 

from the wild; or source 

code A for artificial 

propagation (plantation 

grown)

 Other Certificate

designating 

Pre-Convention 

specimens; and 

designating the date of 

acquisition or certification 

the specimens were 

acquired before the date 

first included in the CITES 

appendices 

Other permits may be 

required under 7 CFR 319.40; 

see notice on page 2-33

GO to Step 5: Collect the 

Appropriate Documents 

Associated with the 

Shipment on page 2-97

Lacks the required CITES 

document

1. PLACE the shipment on 

HOLD

2. GO to Violations, 

Seizures, and 

Forfeitures

Lacks a Protected Plant 

Permit 

ALLOW the exporter to 

apply for a Protected Plant 

Permit (see Confirm PPP 

Valid or Apply for a PPP)

Has an expired Protected 

Plant Permit

ALLOW the exporter to 

apply for a Protected Plant 

Permit (see Confirm PPP 

Valid or Apply for a PPP)

Is not

engaged in 

commercial 

business

GO to page 2-63

Table 2-6 Determine Which Documents Are Needed for the Importation of CITES Appendix II Regulated 

Timber Species (continued)

If the article traded 

comes from:

And country 

of origin is:

And the 

permittee: And the importer: Then:
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 2-63

 Swietenia 

mahogani 

(Caribbean 

mahogany)

Any country Is not

engaged in 

commercial 

business

Presents one of the following 

CITES-issued original 5

Appendix II documents:

 Export Permit or 

Re-export Certificate 

designating source code 

W for specimens collected 

from the wild; or source 

code A for artificial 

propagation (plantation 

grown)

 Other Certificate 

designating 

Pre-Convention 

specimens; and 

designating the date of 

acquisition or certification 

the specimens were 

acquired before the date 

first included in the CITES 

appendices 

Other permits may be 

required under 7 CFR 319.40; 

see notice on page 2-33

GO to Step 5: Collect the 

Appropriate Documents 

Associated with the 

Shipment on page 2-97

Lacks the required CITES 

document

1. PLACE the shipment on 

HOLD

2. GO to Violations, 

Seizures, and 

Forfeitures on page 4-1

Table 2-6 Determine Which Documents Are Needed for the Importation of CITES Appendix II Regulated 

Timber Species (continued)

If the article traded 

comes from:

And country 

of origin is:

And the 

permittee: And the importer: Then:
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

2-64 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

 Widdringtonia 

whytei

(Mulanje cedar)

Any country Is engaged 

in 

commercial 

business 4

Presents a USDA-APHIS 

ePermits-issued Protected 

Plant Permit, and one of the 

following CITES-issued

original 5

 Appendix II 

documents:

 Export Permit or 

Re-export Certificate 

designating source code 

W for specimens collected 

from the wild; or source 

code A for artificial 

propagation (plantation 

grown)

 Other Certificate

designating 

Pre-Convention 

specimens; and 

designating the date of 

acquisition or certification 

the specimens were 

acquired before the date 

first included in the CITES 

appendices 

Other permits may be 

required under 7 CFR 319.40; 

see notice on page 2-33

GO to Step 5: Collect the 

Appropriate Documents 

Associated with the 

Shipment on page 2-97

Lacks the required CITES 

document

1. PLACE the shipment on 

HOLD

2. GO to Violations, 

Seizures, and 

Forfeitures

Is not

engaged in 

commercial 

business

GO to page 2-65

Table 2-6 Determine Which Documents Are Needed for the Importation of CITES Appendix II Regulated 

Timber Species (continued)

If the article traded 

comes from:

And country 

of origin is:

And the 

permittee: And the importer: Then:
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 2-65

 Widdringtonia 

whytei

(Mulanje cedar)

Any country Is not

engaged in 

commercial 

business

Presents one of the following 

CITES-issued original 5

Appendix II documents:

 Export Permit or 

Re-export Certificate 

designating source code 

W for specimens collected 

from the wild; or source 

code A for artificial 

propagation (plantation 

grown)

 Other Certificate 

designating 

Pre-Convention 

specimens; and 

designating the date of 

acquisition or certification 

the specimens were 

acquired before the date 

first included in the CITES 

appendices 

Other permits may be 

required under 7 CFR 319.40; 

see notice on page 2-33

GO to Step 5: Collect the 

Appropriate Documents 

Associated with the 

Shipment on page 2-97

Lacks the required CITES 

document

1. PLACE the shipment on 

HOLD

2. GO to Violations, 

Seizures, and 

Forfeitures on page 4-1

1 Engaged in commercial business is defined as trade for the purpose of selling, bartering, collecting, or otherwise as a 

livelihood for gain or profit.

2 A CITES-issued original is defined as an original CITES document issued by a CITES Management Authority or an authority 

authorized by a CITES Management Authority.

3 PPQ to locate the name of the PPQ Botanist that services your port, see the List of PPQ Identifiers and National Specialists.

4 Engaged in commercial business is defined as trade for the purpose of selling, bartering, collecting, or otherwise as a 

livelihood for gain or profit.

5 A CITES-issued original is defined as an original CITES document issued by a CITES Management Authority or an authority 

authorized by a CITES Management Authority.

6 PPQ to locate the name of the PPQ Botanist that services your port, see the List of PPQ Identifiers and National Specialists.

7 If you are not certain the Diospyros spp. is of Madagasy origin, then contact your PPQ Port Botanist. 

8 Listed by the Convention to include Swietenia macrophylla populations of the Neotropics only. Swietenia macrophylla trees 

cut in any country other than populations of the Neotropics are not regulated by CITES.

9 The Neotropics include the Caribbean, Central America, Mexico, and South America. Populations of the Neotropics include 

articles that originated in the Neotropics but were re-exported from another country. 

10 There is a moratorium on the export of Swietenia macrophylla (bigleaf mahogany) from Brazil and Nicaragua.

11 The National CITES Specialist is Timothy Torbett.e-mail timothy.j.torbett@usda.gov. 

Table 2-6 Determine Which Documents Are Needed for the Importation of CITES Appendix II Regulated 

Timber Species (continued)

If the article traded 

comes from:

And country 

of origin is:

And the 

permittee: And the importer: Then:
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

2-66 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

12 The National CITES Coordinator is John Veremis, e-mail john.veremis@usda.gov.
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 2-67

Required Documents for Importation of Appendix III Timber Species

The importation of CITES Appendix III timber species is permitted when 

presented with the appropriate documentation issued by a CITES management 

authority for the following categories of trade:

Articles derived from trees cut in the wild originating from a country that 

included the species in Appendix III

(when presented with a CITES management authority-issued CITES 

Export Permit or Re-export Certificate designating source code W for 

specimens collected from the wild)

Articles derived from trees cut in the wild originating from a country 

other than the country that included the species in Appendix III

(when presented with a CITES management authority-issued CITES 

Certificate of Origin or Re-export Certificate designating source code W) 

Articles derived from plantation-grown trees 

(when presented with a CITES management authority-issued CITES 

Export Permit or Re-export Certificate designating source code A for 

artificial propagation)

Articles acquired prior to the date the CITES Convention listed the 

species

(when presented with a CITES management authority-issued CITES 

Other Certificate designating Pre-Convention specimens; and designating 

the date of acquisition or certification the specimens were acquired before 

the date first included in the CITES appendices)

See Table 2-7 on page 2-68 to determine which documents are required for the 

importation of CITES Appendix III regulated timber species.
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

2-68 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

 

Table 2-7 Determine Which Documents Are Needed for the Importation of CITES Appendix III Timber 

Species 

If the timber 

species is:

And the country 

of origin is:

And the 

permittee: And the importer: Then:

NOTICE

Use these guidelines in conjunction with 7CFR 319.40,and see the Wood and Wood Byproducts section 

of the Agricultural Commodity and Import Requirements database and the Plant Protection Act. When 

applying these guidelines, first apply the regulations that prevent the entry of plant pests. In addition to a 

USDA-APHIS ePermits-issued Protected Plant Permit, many wood and forest products also require PPQ 

Form 597, Import Permit for Plants and Plant Products (see also PPQ Form 585, Application to Import 

Timber or Timber Products). 
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 2-69

Dipteryx 

panamensis

(almendro)

Costa Rica or 

Nicaragua 

(includes articles 

originating in 

Costa Rica or 

Nicaragua that 

were re-exported 

from another 

country) 

Is engaged 

in 

commercial 

business 1

Presents a USDA-APHIS 

ePermits-issued Protected Plant 

Permit and one of the following 

CITES-issued original 2

Appendix III documents:

 Export Permit or Re-export 

Certificate designating 

source code W for 

specimens collected from 

the wild; or source code A for 

artificial propagation 

(plantation grown)

 Other Certificate designating 

Pre-Convention specimens; 

and designating the date of 

acquisition or certification the 

specimens were acquired 

before the date first included 

in the CITES appendices

Other permits may be required 

under 7 CFR 319.40; see notice 

on page 2-68

GO to Step 5: Collect the 

Appropriate Documents 

Associated with the 

Shipment on page 2-97

Lacks the required CITES 

document

1. PLACE the shipment 

on HOLD

2. GO to Violations, 

Seizures, and 

Forfeitures on page 

4-1

Lacks a Protected Plant Permit 1. ALLOW the exporter 

to apply for a 

Protected Plant 

Permit

2. GO Confirm PPP 

Valid or Apply for a 

PPP on page 2-105

Has an expired Protected Plant 

Permit

ALLOW the exporter to 

apply for a Protected 

Plant Permit (see 

Confirm PPP Valid or 

Apply for a PPP)

Is not

engaged in 

commercial 

business

GO to page 2-70

Table 2-7 Determine Which Documents Are Needed for the Importation of CITES Appendix III Timber 

Species (continued)

If the timber 

species is:

And the country 

of origin is:

And the 

permittee: And the importer: Then:
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

2-70 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

Dipteryx 

panamensis

(almendro)

Costa Rica or 

Nicaragua 

(includes articles 

originating in 

Costa Rica or 

Nicaragua that 

were re-exported 

from another 

country) 

Is not

engaged in 

commercial 

business

Presents one of the following 

CITES-issued original 2

Appendix III documents:

 Export Permit or Re-export 

Certificate designating 

source code W for 

specimens collected from 

the wild; or source code A 

for artificial propagation 

(plantation grown)

 Other Certificate designating 

Pre-Convention specimens; 

and designating the date of 

acquisition or certification the 

specimens were acquired 

before the date first included 

in the CITES appendices

Other permits may be required 

under 7 CFR 319.40; see 

advisory notice on page 2-68

GO to Step 5: Collect the 

Appropriate Documents 

Associated with the 

Shipment on page 2-97

Lacks the required CITES 

document

1. PLACE the shipment 

on HOLD

2. GO to Violations, 

Seizures, and 

Forfeitures on page 

4-1

Other than listed 

above

GO to page 2-71

Table 2-7 Determine Which Documents Are Needed for the Importation of CITES Appendix III Timber 

Species (continued)

If the timber 

species is:

And the country 

of origin is:

And the 

permittee: And the importer: Then:
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 2-71

Dipteryx 

panamensis 

(almendro)

Other than Costa 

Rica or Nicaragua

Is engaged 

in 

commercial 

business 1

Presents a USDA-APHIS 

ePermits-issued Protected Plant 

Permit, and one of the following 

CITES-issued original 2

Appendix III documents:

 Certificate of Origin 3

 Export Permit or Re-export 

Certificate designating 

source code W for 

specimens collected from 

the wild; or source code A for 

artificial propagation 

(plantation grown)

 Other Certificate designating 

Pre-Convention specimens; 

and designating the date of 

acquisition or certification the 

specimens were acquired 

before the date first included 

in the CITES appendices 

Other permits may be required 

under 7 CFR 319.40; see 

advisory notice on page 2-68

GO to Step 5: Collect the 

Appropriate Documents 

Associated with the 

Shipment on page 2-97

Lacks the required CITES 

document

1. PLACE the shipment 

on HOLD

2. GO to Violations, 

Seizures, and 

Forfeitures on page 

4-1

Lacks a Protected Plant Permit ALLOW the exporter to 

apply for a Protected 

Plant Permit (see 

Confirm PPP Valid or 

Apply for a PPP on page 

2-105)

Has an expired Protected Plant 

Permit

ALLOW the exporter to 

apply for a Protected 

Plant Permit (see 

Confirm PPP Valid or 

Apply for a PPP)

Is not

engaged in 

commercial 

business

GO to page 2-72

Table 2-7 Determine Which Documents Are Needed for the Importation of CITES Appendix III Timber 

Species (continued)

If the timber 

species is:

And the country 

of origin is:

And the 

permittee: And the importer: Then:
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

2-72 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

Dipteryx 

panamensis 

(almendro)

Other than Costa 

Rica or Nicaragua

Is not

engaged in 

commercial 

business

Presents one of the following 

CITES-issued original 2

Appendix III documents:

 Certificate of Origin 3

 Export Permit or Re-export 

Certificate designating 

source code W for 

specimens collected from 

the wild; or source code A for 

artificial propagation 

(plantation grown)

 Other Certificate designating 

Pre-Convention specimens; 

and designating the date of 

acquisition or certification the 

specimens were acquired 

before the date first included 

in the CITES appendices 

Other permits may be required 

under 7 CFR 319.40; see 

advisory notice on page 2-68

GO to Step 5: Collect the 

Appropriate Documents 

Associated with the 

Shipment on page 2-97

Lacks the required CITES 

document

1. PLACE the shipment 

on HOLD

2. GO to Violations, 

Seizures, and 

Forfeitures on page 

4-1

Table 2-7 Determine Which Documents Are Needed for the Importation of CITES Appendix III Timber 

Species (continued)

If the timber 

species is:

And the country 

of origin is:

And the 

permittee: And the importer: Then:
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 2-73

Fraxinus 

mandshurica

(manchurian ash) 

Russian 

Federation

(includes articles 

originating in the 

Russian 

Federation that 

were re-exported 

from another 

country) 

Is engaged 

in 

commercial 

business 1

Presents a USDA-APHIS 

ePermits-issued Protected Plant 

Permit, and one of the following 

CITES-issued original 2

Appendix III documents:

 Export Permit or Re-export 

Certificate designating 

source code W for 

specimens collected from 

the wild; or source code A for 

artificial propagation 

(plantation grown)

 Other Certificate designating 

Pre-Convention specimens; 

and designating the date of 

acquisition or certification the 

specimens were acquired 

before the date first included 

in the CITES appendices

Other permits may be required 

under 7 CFR 319.40; see notice 

page 2-68

GO to Step 5: Collect the 

Appropriate Documents 

Associated with the 

Shipment on page 2-97

Lacks the required CITES 

document

1. PLACE the shipment 

on HOLD

2. GO to Violations, 

Seizures, and 

Forfeitures on page 

4-1

Lacks a Protected Plant Permit 1. ALLOW the exporter 

to apply for a 

Protected Plant 

Permit

2. GO to Confirm PPP 

Valid or Apply for a 

PPP on page 2-105

Has an expired Protected Plant 

Permit

1. ALLOW the exporter 

to apply for a 

Protected Plant 

Permit

2. GO Confirm PPP 

Valid or Apply for a 

PPP

Is not

engaged in 

commercial 

business

GO to page 2-74

Table 2-7 Determine Which Documents Are Needed for the Importation of CITES Appendix III Timber 

Species (continued)

If the timber 

species is:

And the country 

of origin is:

And the 

permittee: And the importer: Then:
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

2-74 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

Fraxinus 

mandshurica 

(manchurian ash)

Russian 

Federation 

(includes articles 

originating in the 

Russian 

Federation that 

were re-exported 

from another 

country)

Is not

engaged in 

commercial 

business

Presents one of the following 

CITES-issued original 2

Appendix III documents:

 Export Permit or Re-export 

Certificate designating 

source code W for 

specimens collected from 

the wild; or source code A for 

artificial propagation 

(plantation grown)

 Other Certificate designating 

Pre-Convention specimens; 

and designating the date of 

acquisition or certification the 

specimens were acquired 

before the date first included 

in the CITES appendices

Other permits may be required 

under 7 CFR 319.40; see notice 

page 2-68

GO to Step 5: Collect the 

Appropriate Documents 

Associated with the 

Shipment on page 2-97

Lacks the required CITES 

document

1. PLACE the shipment 

on HOLD

2. GO to Violations, 

Seizures, and 

Forfeitures on page 

4-1

Other than listed 

above

GO to page 2-75

Table 2-7 Determine Which Documents Are Needed for the Importation of CITES Appendix III Timber 

Species (continued)

If the timber 

species is:

And the country 

of origin is:

And the 

permittee: And the importer: Then:
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 2-75

Fraxinus 

mandshurica

(manchurian ash)

Other than 

Russian 

Federation

Is engaged 

in 

commercial 

business 1

Presents a USDA-APHIS 

ePermits-issued Protected Plant 

Permit, and one of the following 

CITES-issued original 2

Appendix III documents:

 Certificate of Origin 3

 Export Permit or Re-export 

Certificate designating 

source code W for 

specimens collected from 

the wild; or source code A for 

artificial propagation 

(plantation grown)

 Other Certificate designating 

Pre-Convention specimens; 

and designating the date of 

acquisition or certification the 

specimens were acquired 

before the date first included 

in the CITES appendices 

Other permits may be required 

under 7 CFR 319.40; see notice 

page 2-68

GO to Step 5: Collect the 

Appropriate Documents 

Associated with the 

Shipment on page 2-97

Lacks the required CITES 

document

1. PLACE the shipment 

on HOLD

2. GO to Violations, 

Seizures, and 

Forfeitures on page 

4-1

Lacks a Protected Plant Permit ALLOW the exporter to 

apply for a Protected 

Plant Permit (see 

Confirm PPP Valid or 

Apply for a PPP on page 

2-105)

Has an expired Protected Plant 

Permit

ALLOW the exporter to 

apply for a Protected 

Plant Permit (see 

Confirm PPP Valid or 

Apply for a PPP)

Table 2-7 Determine Which Documents Are Needed for the Importation of CITES Appendix III Timber 

Species (continued)

If the timber 

species is:

And the country 

of origin is:

And the 

permittee: And the importer: Then:
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

2-76 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

Fraxinus 

mandshurica 

(manchurian ash)

Other than 

Russian 

Federation 

Is not

engaged in 

commercial 

business

Presents one of the following 

CITES-issued original 2

Appendix III documents:

 Certificate of Origin 3

 Export Permit or Re-export 

Certificate designating 

source code W for 

specimens collected from 

the wild; or source code A for 

artificial propagation 

(plantation grown)

 Other Certificate designating 

Pre-Convention specimens; 

and designating the date of 

acquisition or certification the 

specimens were acquired 

before the date first included 

in the CITES appendices 

Other permits may be required 

under 7 CFR 319.40; see notice 

on page 2-68

GO to Step 5: Collect the 

Appropriate Documents 

Associated with the 

Shipment on page 2-97

Lacks the required CITES 

document

1. PLACE the shipment 

on HOLD

2. GO to Violations, 

Seizures, and 

Forfeitures on page 

4-1

Table 2-7 Determine Which Documents Are Needed for the Importation of CITES Appendix III Timber 

Species (continued)

If the timber 

species is:

And the country 

of origin is:

And the 

permittee: And the importer: Then:
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 2-77

Magnolia liliifera

 var. obovata

(magnolia)

Nepal 

(includes articles 

originating in 

Nepal that were 

re-exported from 

another country)

Is engaged 

in 

commercial 

business 1

Presents a USDA-APHIS 

ePermits-issued Protected Plant 

Permit, and one of the following 

Appendix III CITES-issued

original 2

 documents:

 Export Permit or Re-export 

Certificate designating 

source code W for 

specimens collected from 

the wild; or source code A for 

artificial propagation 

(plantation grown)

 Other Certificate designating 

Pre-Convention specimens; 

and designating the date of 

acquisition or certification the 

specimens were acquired 

before the date first included 

in the CITES appendices 

Other permits may be required 

under 7 CFR 319.40; see notice 

on page 2-68

GO to Step 5: Collect the 

Appropriate Documents 

Associated with the 

Shipment on page 2-97

Lacks the required CITES 

document

1. PLACE the shipment 

on HOLD

2. GO to Violations, 

Seizures, and 

Forfeitures on page 

4-1

Lacks a Protected Plant Permit ALLOW the exporter to 

apply for a Protected Plant Permit

(see Confirm PPP 

Valid or Apply for a 

PPP on page 2-105)

Has an expired Protected Plant 

Permit

ALLOW the exporter to 

apply for a Protected Plant Permit

(see Confirm PPP 

Valid or Apply for a 

PPP on page 2-105

Table 2-7 Determine Which Documents Are Needed for the Importation of CITES Appendix III Timber 

Species (continued)

If the timber 

species is:

And the country 

of origin is:

And the 

permittee: And the importer: Then:
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

2-78 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

Magnolia liliifera

var. obovata

(magnolia)

Nepal 

(includes articles 

originating in 

Nepal that were 

re-exported from 

another country)

Is not

engaged in 

commercial 

business

Presents one of the following 

CITES-issued original 2

Appendix III documents:

 Export Permit or Re-export 

Certificate designating 

source code W for 

specimens collected from 

the wild; or source code A for 

artificial propagation 

(plantation grown)

 Other Certificate designating 

Pre-Convention specimens; 

and designating the date of 

acquisition or certification the 

specimens were acquired 

before the date first included 

in the CITES appendices 

Other permits may be required 

under 7 CFR 319.40; see notice 

on page 2-68

GO to Step 5: Collect the 

Appropriate Documents 

Associated with the 

Shipment on page 2-97

Lacks the required CITES 

document

1. PLACE the shipment 

on HOLD

2. GO to Violations, 

Seizures, and 

Forfeitures on page 

4-1

Table 2-7 Determine Which Documents Are Needed for the Importation of CITES Appendix III Timber 

Species (continued)

If the timber 

species is:

And the country 

of origin is:

And the 

permittee: And the importer: Then:
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 2-79

Magnolia liliifera

var. obovata

(magnolia)

Other than Nepal Is engaged 

in 

commercial 

business 1

Presents a USDA-APHIS 

ePermits-issued Protected Plant 

Permit, and one of the following 

CITES-issued original 2

Appendix III documents:

 Certificate of Origin 3

 Export Permit or Re-export 

Certificate designating 

source code W for 

specimens collected from 

the wild; or source code A for 

artificial propagation 

(plantation grown)

 Other Certificate designating 

Pre-Convention specimens; 

and designating the date of 

acquisition or certification the 

specimens were acquired 

before the date first included 

in the CITES appendices

Other permits may be required 

under 7 CFR 319.40; see notice 

on page 2-68

GO to Step 5: Collect the 

Appropriate Documents 

Associated with the 

Shipment on page 2-97

Lacks the required CITES 

document

1. PLACE the shipment 

on HOLD

2. GO to Violations, 

Seizures, and 

Forfeitures

Lacks a Protected Plant Permit ALLOW the exporter to 

apply for a Protected 

Plant Permit (see 

Confirm PPP Valid or 

Apply for a PPP on page 

2-105)

Has an expired Protected Plant 

Permit

ALLOW the exporter to 

apply for a Protected 

Plant Permit (see 

Confirm PPP Valid or 

Apply for a PPP on page 

2-105

Table 2-7 Determine Which Documents Are Needed for the Importation of CITES Appendix III Timber 

Species (continued)

If the timber 

species is:

And the country 

of origin is:

And the 

permittee: And the importer: Then:
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

2-80 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

Magnolia liliifera

 var. obovata

(magnolia)

Other than Nepal Is not

engaged in 

commercial 

business

Presents one of the following 

CITES-issued original 2

Appendix III documents:

 Certificate of Origin 3

 Export Permit or Re-export 

Certificate designating 

source code W for 

specimens collected from 

the wild; or source code A for 

artificial propagation 

(plantation grown)

 Other Certificate designating 

Pre-Convention specimens; 

and designating the date of 

acquisition or certification the 

specimens were acquired 

before the date first included 

in the CITES appendices 

Other permits may be required 

under 7 CFR 319.40; see notice 

on page 2-68

GO to Step 5: Collect the 

Appropriate Documents 

Associated with the 

Shipment on page 2-97

Lacks the required CITES 

document

1. PLACE the shipment 

on HOLD

2. GO to Violations, 

Seizures, and 

Forfeitures on page 

4-1

Table 2-7 Determine Which Documents Are Needed for the Importation of CITES Appendix III Timber 

Species (continued)

If the timber 

species is:

And the country 

of origin is:

And the 

permittee: And the importer: Then:
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 2-81

Pinus koraiensis

(Korean pine)

Russian 

Federation

(includes articles 

originating in the 

Russian 

Federation that 

were re-exported 

from another 

country)

Is engaged 

in 

commercial 

business 1

Presents a USDA-APHIS 

ePermits-issued Protected Plant 

Permit, and one of the following 

CITES-issued original 2

Appendix III documents:

 Export Permit or Re-export 

Certificate designating 

source code W for 

specimens collected from 

the wild; or source code A for 

artificial propagation 

(plantation grown)

 Other Certificate designating 

Pre-Convention specimens; 

and designating the date of 

acquisition or certification the 

specimens were acquired 

before the date first included 

in the CITES appendices

Other permits may be required 

under 7 CFR 319.40; see notice 

on page 2-68

GO to Step 5: Collect the 

Appropriate Documents 

Associated with the 

Shipment on page 2-97

Lacks the required CITES 

document

1. PLACE the shipment 

on HOLD

2. GO to Violations, 

Seizures, and 

Forfeitures on page 

4-1

Lacks a Protected Plant Permit 1. ALLOW the exporter 

to apply for a 

Protected Plant 

Permit

2. GO Confirm PPP 

Valid or Apply for a 

PPP on page 2-105

Has an expired Protected Plant 

Permit

1. ALLOW the exporter 

to apply for a 

Protected Plant 

Permit

2. GO Confirm PPP 

Valid or Apply for a 

PPP

Table 2-7 Determine Which Documents Are Needed for the Importation of CITES Appendix III Timber 

Species (continued)

If the timber 

species is:

And the country 

of origin is:

And the 

permittee: And the importer: Then:
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

2-82 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

Pinus koraiensis

(Korean pine)

Russian 

Federation 

(includes articles 

originating in the 

Russian 

Federation that 

were re-exported 

from another 

country)

Is not

engaged in 

commercial 

business

Presents one of the following 

CITES-issued original 2

Appendix III documents:

 Export Permit or Re-export 

Certificate designating 

source code W for 

specimens collected from 

the wild; or source code A for 

artificial propagation 

(plantation grown)

 Other Certificate designating 

Pre-Convention specimens; 

and designating the date of 

acquisition or certification the 

specimens were acquired 

before the date first included 

in the CITES appendices

Other permits may be required 

under 7 CFR 319.40; see notice 

on page 2-68

GO to Step 5: Collect the 

Appropriate Documents 

Associated with the 

Shipment on page 2-97

Lacks the required CITES 

document

1. PLACE the shipment 

on HOLD

2. GO to Violations, 

Seizures, and 

Forfeitures on page 

4-1

Table 2-7 Determine Which Documents Are Needed for the Importation of CITES Appendix III Timber 

Species (continued)

If the timber 

species is:

And the country 

of origin is:

And the 

permittee: And the importer: Then:
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 2-83

Pinus koraiensis 

(Korean pine)

Other than

Russian 

Federation

Is engaged 

in 

commercial 

business 1

Presents a USDA-APHIS 

ePermits issued Protected Plant 

Permit, and one of the following 

CITES-issued original 2

Appendix III documents:

 Certificate of Origin 3

 Export Permit or Re-export 

Certificate designating 

source code W for 

specimens collected from 

the wild; or source code A for 

artificial propagation 

(plantation grown)

 Other Certificate designating 

Pre-Convention specimens; 

and designating the date of 

acquisition or certification the 

specimens were acquired 

before the date first included 

in the CITES appendices 

Other permits may be required 

under 7 CFR 319.40; see notice 

on page 2-68

GO to Step 5: Collect the 

Appropriate Documents 

Associated with the 

Shipment on page 2-97

Lacks the required CITES 

document

1. PLACE the shipment 

on HOLD

2. GO to Violations, 

Seizures, and 

Forfeitures on page 

4-1

Lacks a Protected Plant Permit ALLOW the exporter to 

apply for a Protected 

Plant Permit (see 

Confirm PPP Valid or 

Apply for a PPP on page 

2-105)

Has an expired Protected Plant 

Permit

ALLOW the exporter to 

apply for a Protected 

Plant Permit (see 

Confirm PPP Valid or 

Apply for a PPP on page 

2-105)

Table 2-7 Determine Which Documents Are Needed for the Importation of CITES Appendix III Timber 

Species (continued)

If the timber 

species is:

And the country 

of origin is:

And the 

permittee: And the importer: Then:
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

2-84 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

Pinus koraiensis 

(Korean pine)

Other than

Russian 

Federation

Is not

engaged in 

commercial 

business

Presents one of the following 

CITES-issued original 2

Appendix III documents:

 Certificate of Origin 3

 Export Permit or Re-export 

Certificate designating 

source code W for 

specimens collected from 

the wild; or source code A for 

artificial propagation 

(plantation grown)

 Other Certificate designating 

Pre-Convention specimens; 

and designating the date of 

acquisition or certification the 

specimens were acquired 

before the date first included 

in the CITES appendices 

Other permits may be required 

under 7 CFR 319.40; see notice 

on page 2-68

GO to Step 5: Collect the 

Appropriate Documents 

Associated with the 

Shipment on page 2-97

Lacks the required CITES 

document

1. PLACE the shipment 

on HOLD

2. GO to Violations, 

Seizures, and 

Forfeitures on page 

4-1

Table 2-7 Determine Which Documents Are Needed for the Importation of CITES Appendix III Timber 

Species (continued)

If the timber 

species is:

And the country 

of origin is:

And the 

permittee: And the importer: Then:
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 2-85

Podocarpus 

neriifolius 

(podocarp)

Nepal 

(includes articles 

originating in 

Nepal that were 

re-exported from 

another country)

Is engaged 

in 

commercial 

business 1

Presents a USDA-APHIS 

ePermits issued Protected Plant 

Permit, and one of the following 

CITES-issued original 2

Appendix III documents:

 Export Permit or Re-export 

Certificate designating 

source code W for 

specimens collected from 

the wild; or source code A for 

artificial propagation 

(plantation grown)

 Other Certificate designating 

Pre-Convention specimens; 

and designating the date of 

acquisition or certification the 

specimens were acquired 

before the date first included 

in the CITES appendices 

Other permits may be required 

under 7 CFR 319.40; see notice 

on page 2-68

GO to Step 5: Collect the 

Appropriate Documents 

Associated with the 

Shipment on page 2-97

Lacks the required CITES 

document

1. PLACE the shipment 

on HOLD

2. GO to Violations, 

Seizures, and 

Forfeitures on page 

4-1

Lacks a Protected Plant Permit ALLOW the exporter to 

apply for a Protected 

Plant Permit (see 

Confirm PPP Valid or 

Apply for a PPP on page 

2-105)

Has an expired Protected Plant 

Permit

ALLOW the exporter to 

apply for a Protected 

Plant Permit (see 

Confirm PPP Valid or 

Apply for a PPP on page 

2-105)

Table 2-7 Determine Which Documents Are Needed for the Importation of CITES Appendix III Timber 

Species (continued)

If the timber 

species is:

And the country 

of origin is:

And the 

permittee: And the importer: Then:
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

2-86 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

Podocarpus 

neriifolius 

(podocarp)

Nepal 

(includes articles 

originating in 

Nepal that were 

re-exported from 

another country)

Is not 

engaged in 

commercial 

business

Presents one of the following 

CITES-issued original 2

Appendix III documents:

 Export Permit or Re-export 

Certificate designating 

source code W for 

specimens collected from 

the wild; or source code A for 

artificial propagation 

(plantation grown)

 Other Certificate designating 

Pre-Convention specimens; 

and designating the date of 

acquisition or certification the 

specimens were acquired 

before the date first included 

in the CITES appendices 

Other permits may be required 

under 7 CFR 319.40; see notice 

on page 2-68

GO to Step 5: Collect the 

Appropriate Documents 

Associated with the 

Shipment

Lacks the required CITES 

document

1. PLACE the shipment 

on HOLD

2. GO to Violations, 

Seizures, and 

Forfeitures on page 

4-1

Table 2-7 Determine Which Documents Are Needed for the Importation of CITES Appendix III Timber 

Species (continued)

If the timber 

species is:

And the country 

of origin is:

And the 

permittee: And the importer: Then:
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 2-87

Podocarpus 

neriifolius 

(podocarp)

Other than Nepal Is engaged 

in 

commercial 

business 1

Presents a USDA-APHIS 

ePermits-issued Protected Plant 

Permit, and one of the following 

CITES-issued original 2

Appendix III documents:

 Certificate of Origin 3

 Export Permit or Re-export 

Certificate designating 

source code W for 

specimens collected from 

the wild; or source code A for 

artificial propagation 

(plantation grown)

 Other Certificate designating 

Pre-Convention specimens; 

and designating the date of 

acquisition or certification the 

specimens were acquired 

before the date first included 

in the CITES appendices

Other permits may be required 

under 7 CFR 319.40; see notice 

on page 2-68

GO to Step 5: Collect the 

Appropriate Documents 

Associated with the 

Shipment on page 2-97

Lacks the required CITES 

document

PLACE the shipment on 

HOLD

GO to Violations, 

Seizures, and 

Forfeitures on page 4-1

Lacks a Protected Plant Permit ALLOW the exporter to 

apply for a Protected 

Plant Permit (see 

Confirm PPP Valid or 

Apply for a PPP on page 

2-105)

Has an expired Protected Plant 

Permit

ALLOW the exporter to 

apply for a Protected 

Plant Permit (see 

Confirm PPP Valid or 

Apply for a PPP on page 

2-105

Table 2-7 Determine Which Documents Are Needed for the Importation of CITES Appendix III Timber 

Species (continued)

If the timber 

species is:

And the country 

of origin is:

And the 

permittee: And the importer: Then:
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

2-88 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

Podocarpus 

neriifolius 

(podocarp)

Other than Nepal Is not

engaged in 

commercial 

business

REQUIRE one of the following 

CITES-issued original 2

Appendix III documents:

 Certificate of Origin 3

 Export Permit or Re-export 

Certificate designating 

source code W for 

specimens collected from 

the wild; or source code A for 

artificial propagation 

(plantation grown)

 Other Certificate designating 

Pre-Convention specimens; 

and designating the date of 

acquisition or certification the 

specimens were acquired 

before the date first included 

in the CITES appendices 

Other permits may be required 

under 7 CFR 319.40; see notice 

on page 2-68

GO to Step 5: Collect the 

Appropriate Documents 

Associated with the 

Shipment on page 2-97

Lacks the required CITES 

document

1. PLACE the shipment 

on HOLD

2. GO to Violations, 

Seizures, and 

Forfeitures on page 

4-1

Table 2-7 Determine Which Documents Are Needed for the Importation of CITES Appendix III Timber 

Species (continued)

If the timber 

species is:

And the country 

of origin is:

And the 

permittee: And the importer: Then:
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 2-89

Quercus 

mongolica 

(mongolian oak)

Russian 

Federation

(includes articles 

from other 

countries that 

originated in the 

Russian 

Federation)

Is engaged 

in 

commercial 

business 1

Presents a USDA-APHIS 

ePermits-issued Protected Plant 

Permit, and one of the following 

CITES-issued original 2

Appendix III documents:

 Export Permit or Re-export 

Certificate designating 

source code W for 

specimens collected from 

the wild; or source code A for 

artificial propagation 

(plantation grown)

 Other Certificate designating 

Pre-Convention specimens; 

and designating the date of 

acquisition or certification the 

specimens were acquired 

before the date first included 

in the CITES appendices

Other permits may be required 

under 7CFR 319.40; see notice 

on page 2-68

GO to Step 5: Collect the 

Appropriate Documents 

Associated with the 

Shipment on page 2-97

Lacks the required CITES 

document

1. PLACE the shipment 

on HOLD

2. GO to Violations, 

Seizures, and 

Forfeitures on page 

4-1

Lacks a Protected Plant Permit 1. ALLOW the exporter 

to apply for a 

Protected Plant 

Permit

2. GO Confirm PPP 

Valid or Apply for a 

PPP on page 2-105

Has an expired Protected Plant 

Permit

1. ALLOW the exporter 

to apply for a 

Protected Plant 

Permit

2. GO Confirm PPP 

Valid or Apply for a 

PPP on page 2-105

Is not

engaged in 

commercial 

business

GO to page 2-90

Table 2-7 Determine Which Documents Are Needed for the Importation of CITES Appendix III Timber 

Species (continued)

If the timber 

species is:

And the country 

of origin is:

And the 

permittee: And the importer: Then:
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

2-90 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

Quercus 

mongolica 

(mongolian oak)

Russian 

Federation

(includes articles 

from other 

countries that 

originated in the 

Russian 

Federation)

Is not

engaged in 

commercial 

business

Presents one of the following 

CITES-issued original 2

Appendix III documents:

 Export Permit or Re-export 

Certificate designating 

source code W for 

specimens collected from 

the wild; or source code A for 

artificial propagation 

(plantation grown)

 Other Certificate designating 

Pre-Convention specimens; 

and designating the date of 

acquisition or certification the 

specimens were acquired 

before the date first included 

in the CITES appendices

Other permits may be required 

under 7 CFR 319.40; see notice 

on page 2-68

GO to Step 5: Collect the 

Appropriate Documents 

Associated with the 

Shipment on page 2-97

Lacks the required CITES 

document

1. PLACE the shipment 

on HOLD

2. GO to Violations, 

Seizures, and 

Forfeitures on page 

4-1

Other than listed 

above

GO to page 2-91

Table 2-7 Determine Which Documents Are Needed for the Importation of CITES Appendix III Timber 

Species (continued)

If the timber 

species is:

And the country 

of origin is:

And the 

permittee: And the importer: Then:
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 2-91

Quercus 

mongolica 

(mongolian oak)

Other than the 

Russian 

Federation 

Is engaged 

in 

commercial 

business 1

Presents a USDA-APHIS 

ePermits-issued Protected Plant 

Permit, and one of the following 

CITES-issued original 2

Appendix III documents:

 Certificate of Origin 3

 Export Permit or Re-export 

Certificate designating 

source code W for 

specimens collected from 

the wild or 

source code A for 

artificial propagation 

(plantation grown)

 Other Certificate designating 

Pre-Convention specimens 

and designating the date of 

acquisition or certification the 

specimens were acquired 

before the date first included 

in the CITES appendices 

Other permits may be required 

under 7 CFR 319.40; see notice 

on page 2-68

GO to Step 5: Collect the 

Appropriate Documents 

Associated with the 

Shipment on page 2-97

Lacks the required CITES 

document

1. PLACE the shipment 

on HOLD

2. GO to Violations, 

Seizures, and 

Forfeitures on page 

4-1

Lacks a Protected Plant Permit ALLOW the exporter to 

apply for a Protected 

Plant Permit (see 

Confirm PPP Valid or 

Apply for a PPP on page 

2-105)

Has an expired Protected Plant 

Permit

ALLOW the exporter to 

apply for a Protected 

Plant Permit (see 

Confirm PPP Valid or 

Apply for a PPP on page 

2-105)

Is not

engaged in 

commercial 

business

GO to page 2-92

Table 2-7 Determine Which Documents Are Needed for the Importation of CITES Appendix III Timber 

Species (continued)

If the timber 

species is:

And the country 

of origin is:

And the 

permittee: And the importer: Then:
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

2-92 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

Quercus 

mongolica 

(mongolian oak)

Other than the 

Russian 

Federation 

Is not

engaged in 

commercial 

business

Presents one of the following 

CITES-issued original 2

Appendix III documents:

 Certificate of Origin 3

 Export Permit or Re-export 

Certificate designating 

source code W for 

specimens collected from 

the wild or 

source code A for 

artificial propagation 

(plantation grown)

 Other Certificate designating 

Pre-Convention specimens; 

and designating the date of 

acquisition or certification the 

specimens were acquired 

before the date first included 

in the CITES appendices 

Other permits may be required 

under 7 CFR 319.40; see notice 

on page 2-68

GO to Step 5: Collect the 

Appropriate Documents 

Associated with the 

Shipment on page 2-97

Lacks the required CITES 

document

1. PLACE the shipment 

on HOLD

2. GO to Violations, 

Seizures, and 

Forfeitures on page 

4-1

Table 2-7 Determine Which Documents Are Needed for the Importation of CITES Appendix III Timber 

Species (continued)

If the timber 

species is:

And the country 

of origin is:

And the 

permittee: And the importer: Then:
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 2-93

Tetracentron 

sinense 

(Tetracentron) 

Nepal 

(includes articles 

originating in 

Nepal that were 

re-exported from 

another country)

Is engaged 

in 

commercial 

business 1

Presents a USDA-APHIS 

ePermits issued Protected Plant 

Permit and one of the following 

CITES-issued original 2

Appendix III documents:

 Export Permit or Re-export 

Certificate designating 

source code W for 

specimens collected from 

the wild; or source code A for 

artificial propagation 

(plantation grown)

 Other Certificate designating 

Pre-Convention specimens; 

and designating the date of 

acquisition or certification the 

specimens were acquired 

before the date first included 

in the CITES appendices 

Other permits may be required 

under 7 CFR 319.40; see notice 

on page 2-68

GO to Step 5: Collect the 

Appropriate Documents 

Associated with the 

Shipment on page 2-97

Lacks the required CITES 

document

1. PLACE the shipment 

on HOLD

2. GO to Violations, 

Seizures, and 

Forfeitures on page 

4-1

Lacks a Protected Plant Permit ALLOW the exporter to 

apply for a Protected 

Plant Permit (see 

Confirm PPP Valid or 

Apply for a PPP on page 

2-105)

Has an expired Protected Plant 

Permit

ALLOW the exporter to 

apply for a Protected 

Plant Permit (see 

Confirm PPP Valid or 

Apply for a PPP on page 

2-105)

Is not

engaged in 

commercial 

business

GO to page 2-94

Table 2-7 Determine Which Documents Are Needed for the Importation of CITES Appendix III Timber 

Species (continued)

If the timber 

species is:

And the country 

of origin is:

And the 

permittee: And the importer: Then:
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

2-94 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

Tetracentron 

sinense 

(Tetracentron) 

Nepal 

(includes articles 

originating in 

Nepal that were 

re-exported from 

another country)

Is not

engaged in 

commercial 

business

Presents one of the following 

CITES-issued original 2

Appendix III documents:

 Export Permit or Re-export 

Certificate designating 

source code W for 

specimens collected from 

the wild or 

source code A for artificial 

propagation (plantation 

grown)

 Other Certificate designating 

Pre-Convention specimens; 

and designating the date of 

acquisition or certification the 

specimens were acquired 

before the date first included 

in the CITES appendices 

Other permits may be required 

under 7 CFR 319.40; see notice 

on page 2-68

GO to Step 5: Collect the 

Appropriate Documents 

Associated with the 

Shipment on page 2-97

Lacks the required CITES 

document

1. PLACE the shipment 

on HOLD

2. GO to Violations, 

Seizures, and 

Forfeitures on page 

4-1

Other than listed 

above

GO to page 2-95

Table 2-7 Determine Which Documents Are Needed for the Importation of CITES Appendix III Timber 

Species (continued)

If the timber 

species is:

And the country 

of origin is:

And the 

permittee: And the importer: Then:
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 2-95

Tetracentron 

sinense 

(Tetracentron) 

Other than Nepal Is engaged 

in 

commercial 

business 1

Presents a USDA-APHIS 

ePermits-issued Protected Plant 

Permit, and one of the following 

Appendix III CITES-issued

original 2

 documents:

 Certificate of Origin 3

 Export Permit or Re-export 

Certificate designating 

source code W for 

specimens collected from 

the wild; or source code A for 

artificial propagation 

(plantation grown)

 Other Certificate designating 

Pre-Convention specimens; 

and designating the date of 

acquisition or certification the 

specimens were acquired 

before the date first included 

in the CITES appendices

Other permits may be required 

under 7 CFR 319.40; see notice 

on page 2-68

GO to Step 5: Collect the 

Appropriate Documents 

Associated with the 

Shipment on page 2-97

Lacks the required CITES 

document

1. PLACE the shipment 

on HOLD

2. GO to Violations, 

Seizures, and 

Forfeitures on page 

4-1

Lacks a Protected Plant Permit ALLOW the exporter to 

apply for a Protected 

Plant Permit (see 

Confirm PPP Valid or 

Apply for a PPP on page 

2-105)

Has an expired Protected Plant 

Permit

ALLOW the exporter to 

apply for a Protected 

Plant Permit (see 

Confirm PPP Valid or 

Apply for a PPP on page 

2-105)

Table 2-7 Determine Which Documents Are Needed for the Importation of CITES Appendix III Timber 

Species (continued)

If the timber 

species is:

And the country 

of origin is:

And the 

permittee: And the importer: Then:
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

2-96 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

Tetracentron 

sinense 

(Tetracentron) 

Other than Nepal Is not

engaged in 

commercial 

business

REQUIRE one of the following 

CITES-issued original 2

Appendix III documents:

 Certificate of Origin 3

 Export Permit or Re-export 

Certificate designating 

source code W for 

specimens collected from 

the wild; or source code A for 

artificial propagation 

(plantation grown)

 Other Certificate designating 

Pre-Convention specimens; 

and designating the date of 

acquisition or certification the 

specimens were acquired 

before the date first included 

in the CITES appendices 

Other permits may be required 

under 7 CFR 319.40; see notice 

on page 2-68

GO to Step 5: Collect the 

Appropriate Documents 

Associated with the 

Shipment on page 2-97

Lacks the required CITES 

document

1. PLACE the shipment 

on HOLD

2. GO to Violations, 

Seizures, and 

Forfeitures on page 

4-1

1 Engaged in commercial business is defined as trade for the purpose of selling, bartering, collecting, or otherwise as a 

livelihood for gain or profit.

2 A CITES-issued original is defined as an original CITES document issued by a CITES Management Authority or an authority 

authorized by a CITES Management Authority.

3 Some CITES Management Authorities will issue a CITES Export Permit in place of a CITES Certificate of Origin.

Table 2-7 Determine Which Documents Are Needed for the Importation of CITES Appendix III Timber 

Species (continued)

If the timber 

species is:

And the country 

of origin is:

And the 

permittee: And the importer: Then:
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 2-97

Step 5: Collect the Appropriate Documents Associated with 

the Shipment

Collect the following documents associated with the shipment:

Original CITES Export documents issued by the exporting country’s 

CITES Management Authority

USDA-issued Protected Plant Permit, for importers engaged in the 

commercial trade of CITES listed plants (see Protected Plant Permit on 

page A-27 and PPQ Form 621, Application for Protected Plant Permit to 

Engage in Business of Importing, Exporting, or Re-exporting... on page 

A-25)

If the importer does not have a permit, then you may allow the 

importer to apply for one (see Step 7: Ensure the Protected Plant 

Permit Has Not Expired on page 2-105 and follow the directions for 

allowing the importer to renew an expired permit)

Cargo paperwork associated with the shipment (such as bill of lading, air 

waybill, U.S. Customs entry, invoice, and dimensional specification 

sheets2

)

Timber for Importation that Has Been Re-exported from Another Country

You may encounter CITES regulated timber species, or logs or articles made 

from regulated timber species and offered for importation that have been reexported from another country. 

For such re-exported shipments continue using these guidelines, but verify the 

validity of the Re-export Certificate from the Management Authority in the 

country from which the shipment is being re-exported rather than a CITES 

document from where the lumber was cut. Continue to Step 6: Verify the 

CITES Document Is Authentic and Acceptable on page 2-98.

2 Dimensional specification sheets are used for articles that are imported in quantities expressed in 

cubic meters, square meters, or board feet, and inventory the size of each piece of lumber or veneer 

in each bundle shipped. Usually there will be more than one dimensional inventory sheet with each 

shipment.

EXAMPLE A shipment of Mexican lignum vitae (Guaiacum officinale) lumber 

may be re-exported from Canada to the U.S. In this case, the 

shipment requires a CITES Re-export Certificate from the Canadian 

Management Authority.

EXAMPLE A shipment of Peruvian Spanish cedar (cedrela odorata) lumber may 

be re-exported from Bolivia to the U.S. In this case, the shipment 

requires a CITES Re-export Certificate from the Bolivian 

Management Authority.
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

2-98 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

Step 6: Verify the CITES Document Is Authentic and 

Acceptable

Compare the CITES document accompanying the shipment to the CITES 

Standard CITES Form on page A-9. Follow the instructions in Table 2-8 on 

page 2-98 to determine if the CITES document for import of the shipment is 

valid. Verify the management authority’s address (instructions are in Block 6

and Block 13) in Table 2-8. 

NOTICE

Do not accept a CITES Permit or CITES Certificate that is altered, modified, or 

crossed-out unless the modification or crossing out has been authenticated by the 

stamp and signature of the authority issuing the document. 

If you are presented with an altered or questionable CITES document, then place the 

shipment on HOLD and contact a PPQ Regional Botanist through proper channels 

for assistance. 

Table 2-8 Instructions for CITES Permit or Certificate Validation 

Standardized

Block No. Instructions

The heading Standardized Block No. above refers to the block location on a Standard CITES Form. 

The block numbers may vary according to the difference in format used by each country

1 Permit Number and 

Type of CITES 

Document 

VERIFY the CITES document has a permit number or certificate number (the 

unique control number that identifies the document)

VERIFY the type of CITES document presented (Export Permit/Certificate, 

Certificate of Origin, Re-export Certificate, or Other) corresponds with the 

category of trade

If the CITES document is marked "Other", then the document must indicate the 

type of certificate such as: "Certificate of Artificial Propagation" (for plantationgrown trees); "Certificate of Origin"; or "Pre-Convention Certificate”

NOTICE

A CITES document must be written in one of the three working languages of the Convention (English, 

French, or Spanish) or must include a full translation into one of the three working languages. If the 

following information is not accurate and complete, then do not accept. 
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 2-99

2 Expiration Date VERIFY the CITES document has not expired. The validity of a CITES document 

expires at midnight (local time at the place of presentation) on the date indicated 

on the document. All activities, including but not limited to transport and 

presentation for import must be completed before that time

3 & 4 Name and Address of 

Importer and Exporter

1. VERIFY that the complete name and address, including country, of the 

importer and exporter are on the CITES document; and match the information 

on the accompanying shipping documents

2. VERIFY that the CITES document designates a U.S. consignee. If the 

shipment is in-transit to another country, then see page 3-87

5 Special Conditions VERIFY that the permittee complies with all the conditions on the CITES 

document

5a Purpose of Transaction 1. VERIFY the purpose of transaction identified either by a written description or 

by one of the codes in 50CFR §23.23(d) which reflects the nature of the 

transaction. Most transactions will be commercial with a transaction code T

2. VERIFY the transaction code is compatible with the source code recorded in 

Block 10 

5b Security Stamp Number 

or Security Number

VERIFY the number listed in Block 5b (on the document) matches the number of 

the security stamp affixed in Block 13. Some countries may choose to use security 

paper in lieu of a stamp; the security number found on the face of the document 

should also be recorded in Block 5b

Table 2-8 Instructions for CITES Permit or Certificate Validation (continued)

Standardized

Block No. Instructions

NOTICE

A CITES Import Permit and a CITES Certificate of Origin may be valid 

for no more than 12 months from the issuance date.

A CITES Export Permit or a CITES Re-export Certificate may be valid

for no longer than 6 months from the issuance date. However, the 

conditions in 50 CFR §23.73(c)(2) and Conference Resolution 12.3 

(Rev. CoP 15), Permits and Certificates Section XI are met, then the 

CITES Management Authority in the country of import may extend the 

validity of a CITES Export Permit or CITES Re-export Certificate beyond 

the 6 months for timber species. 

CITES “OTHER” documents state the period of validity. See 50 CFR 

§23.54 for more information on CITES document expiration period

NOTICE

Although 50 CFR 23.73(c)(1) and Conference Resolution 12.3 (Rev. CoP 

15), Permits and Certificates Section XI accommodate for rerouting and 

a change of destination, this is intended for the sale of logs, lumber, or 

veneer of CITES Appendix II or Appendix III timber species while a 

shipment is in transit. The resolution does not apply to U.S. company 

utilizing a CITES document issued to a foreign affiliate’s address.

EXAMPLE An export permit authorizing commercial trade (purpose of 

transaction code T) for a wild-collected Appendix I specimen 

(source code W) would not be valid, except for pre-Convention 

specimens.
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

2-100 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

6 Name, Address, 

National Seal/Stamp 

and Country of 

Management Authority

VERIFY the name and address of the issuing Management Authority’s name and 

address. Check CITES National Contacts (a directory of names and addresses of 

all the management authorities) to confirm the name and address matches the 

name and address listed in this block

7 & 8 Scientific name (genus 

and species) and 

common name

1. VERIFY by review of the shipping documents and later by inspection of the 

commodity, that the scientific name of the commodity recorded on the CITES 

document matches the scientific name listed in Table 2-4

2. Under certain circumstances, higher taxon names in lieu of the species name 

may be permitted for Pre-Convention specimens (see 50CFR 23.23.(c)(13). 

CONTACT your PPQ Botanist1

 or National CITES Specialist2 through channels 

9 Description of the 

specimens

VERIFY by review of the shipping documents and later by inspection of the 

commodity, that the description of the article matches the items being imported

10 Appendix Number and 

Source

1. VERIFY the CITES Appendix number (of the species being imported) listed 

and found in Table 2-4 agrees with the Appendix number listed on the CITES 

document

2. VERIFY the source code for the specimen is correct (see Figure 2-9 on 

page 2-101)

11 Quantity (including unit) VERIFY the quantity entered agrees with the quantity declared on the 

accompanying shipping documents (see Step 8: Verify the Quantities Are 

Authorized) and by inspection of the commodity (see Step 9: Inspect the 

Shipment)

13 Permit/certificate issued 

by

Place/Date/Security 

Stamp, Signature, and 

Official Seal

1. VERIFY the following are present: location (city, town, etc.) of the issuing 

office; date the document was issued; if used, a security stamp; original 

handwritten signature of a person authorized to sign for the Management 

Authority; and the embossed seal or ink stamp of the issuing Management 

Authority

2. VERIFY the date of issuance is either on or prior to the date of lading (date of 

export). This information can be found on the bill of lading or air waybill

3. If presented with a retrospectively-issued 3 CITES document, then do not

accept. CONTACT your PPQ Botanist1 or National CITES Specialist2 (see 

Retrospective CITES Documents on page 2-103)

14 Export Endorsement 1. VERIFY the quantity of specimens actually exported or re-exported is recorded 

in the same unit of measure as listed in Block 11, Quantity (standard CITES 

Permit or Certificate)

2. VERIFY the validating stamp or seal and the signature of the inspecting 

authority at the time of export 

3. If presented with a CITES document that lacks the export endorsement, then 

do not accept. CONTACT a PPQ Botanist1

 or National CITES Specialist2

15 Bill of Lading/Air waybill 

Number

1. VERIFY the number in this block matches the number of the bill of lading or air 

waybill accompanying the shipment 

2. If a bill of lading or air waybill was not available at the time of export or 

re-export validation, then the number is not required to be recorded on the 

CITES document

1 CBP and PPQ: To locate the name, phone number, and address of the PPQ Botanist that services your port, see the Lists 

of PPQ Identifiers and National Specialists.

2 National CITES Specialist is Timothy Torbett. National CITES Coordinator is John Veremis. 

E-mail timothy.j.torbett@usda.gov or john.veremis@usda.gov.

3 A retrospectively-issued CITES document is one that was issued after the date the shipment was exported (date of lading).

Table 2-8 Instructions for CITES Permit or Certificate Validation (continued)

Standardized

Block No. Instructions
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 2-101

The Management Authority must indicate on the CITES document the source 

code of the specimen. See the codes listed in Table 2-9.

If a CITES document is presented to you with any of the following conditions, 

then STOP processing the importation; place the shipment on HOLD; and 

contact the PPQ National CITES Specialist or the National CITES 

Coordinator 3

 for assistance:

Contains false information

Is altered or modified

Is expired 4

Is not complete (does not contain one or more of the items listed in 

Table 2-8)

Is to replace a document that was lost, stolen, damaged, or destroyed (see 

Replacement CITES Documents on page 2-102)

Is retrospectively-issued and you have not been notified by PPQ of a 

limited situation to authorize and accept the retrospectively-issued 

certificate (see Retrospective CITES Documents on page 2-103)

Table 2-9 Specimen Source Codes on CITES Documents

Source of Specimen Code

Artificially propagated (plantation grown)

(see 50CFR §23.40 and 23.64(f))

Appendix II or III artificially propagated specimen

Appendix I plant specimen artificially propagated for 

noncommercial purposes (see 50CFR 23.40) 

A

Artificially propagated (plantation grown) for 

commercial purposes

(see 50CFR 23.47 and 23.64(f))

Appendix l plant specimens artificially grown for commercial 

purposes that meet the requirements of 50CFR §23.47 and 

23.64(f)

D

Pre-Convention specimen 

(see 50CFR §23.45)

(code is to be used in conjunction with another code) O

Specimen taken from the wild Includes a specimen propagated from a propagule collected 

from a wild plant, except as provided in §23.64

W

3 The National CITES Specialist is Timothy Torbett and the National CITES Coordinator is 

John Veremis. E-mail timothy.j.torbett@usda.gov or john.veremis@usda.gov.

4 The validity of a CITES document expires at midnight (local time at the place of presentation) on the 

date indicated on the document. All activities, including but not limited to transport and presentation 

for import must be completed before that time. 
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

2-102 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

If the shipment does not meet all conditions stated on the CITES document, 

then do as follows:

1. STOP processing the importation.

2. Place the shipment on HOLD.

3. Contact the PPQ National CITES Specialist or National CITES 

Coordinator 5 for assistance.

If the CITES document and the shipment are acceptable, then continue to Step 

7: Ensure the Protected Plant Permit Has Not Expired.

Replacement CITES Documents

Unless you were previously notified by PPQ Headquarters or a PPQ National 

CITES Specialist, then you must contact the PPQ Botanist 6 (through proper 

channels) to determine if you can accept a replacement document for the 

shipment.

Lost, damaged, stolen, or accidentally-destroyed CITES documents may be 

replaced by an issuing Management Authority. To replace a CITES document, 

a Management Authority may issue either a copy of the original or a re-issued 

original. 

To accept a replacement document, the document must be issued in 

compliance with U.S. regulations. 

The following provisions apply to the issuance and acceptance of a 

replacement CITES document, but do not apply to a document that has expired 

or that requires amendment:

1. The permittee must notify the issuing Management Authority that the 

document was lost, damaged, stolen, or accidentally destroyed.

2. The issuing Management Authority must be satisfied that the CITES 

document was lost, damaged, stolen, or accidentally destroyed.

3. The issuing Management Authority should immediately inform the 

Management Authority in the country of destination and, for commercial 

shipments, the Secretariat.

4. If the replacement CITES document is a copy, the copy must indicate that 

it is a “replacement” and a “true copy of the original,” contain a new dated 

original signature of a person authorized to sign CITES documents for the 

issuing Management Authority, and give the reason for replacement.

5 The National CITES Specialist is Timothy Torbett. National CITES Coordinator is John Veremis. 

E-mail timothy.j.torbett@usda.gov or john.veremis@usda.gov.

6 CBP and PPQ: To locate the name and phone number of your PPQ Botanist, see the Lists of PPQ 

Identifiers and National Specialists.
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 2-103

5. If the replacement CITES document is a newly-issued original document, 

then the new document must indicate that it is a “replacement,” include the 

number and date of issuance of the document being replaced, and give the 

reason for replacement. 

Retrospective CITES Documents

A retrospective CITES document is one that was issued after the date the 

shipment was exported; the date the shipment left the country of origin or 

export (date of lading). Retrospective CITES documents may be issued and 

accepted only in certain limited situations to authorize an export or re-export 

after that activity has occurred, but before the shipment is cleared for import.

Unless you were previously notified by PPQ Headquarters or a PPQ Botanist7

of the action to take for the retrospective CITES document, then do not accept 

a retrospectively-issued CITES document. Contact your PPQ Botanist or PPQ 

National CITES Specialist (through proper channels) to request assistance with 

issues relating to the acceptance of retrospective documents.

Before an importer/exporter attempts to obtain a retrospective document, refer 

the importer/exporter to 50 CFR §23.53 (see ecfr.gov) to help the importer/

exporter determine if the shipment meets the criteria for issuance and 

acceptance of a retrospective CITES document.

The following provisions apply to the issuance and acceptance of a 

retrospective CITES document:

1. Retrospective documents can only be issued after consultation between the 

Management Authorities in both the exporting or re-exporting country and 

the importing country, including a thorough investigation of circumstances 

and agreement between them that criteria pertaining to the issuance and 

acceptance of retrospective documents paragraph have been met. have 

been met.

2. The exporter or re-exporter and importer were not responsible for the 

irregularities that occurred and have demonstrated one of the following:

A. (The Management Authority or officials designated to clear CITES 

shipments misinformed the exporter or re-exporter or the importer 

about the CITES requirements. In the United States, this would be an 

employee of APHIS or CBP (for plants). 

OR

7 CBP and PPQ: To locate the name, phone number, and address of your PPQ Botanist, see the List 

of PPQ Identifiers and National Specialists.
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

2-104 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

B. The Management Authority unintentionally made a technical error that 

was not prompted by information provided by the applicant when 

issuing the CITES document.

C. The issuing Management Authority must provide all of the following 

information on any retrospective CITES document: 

A statement that it was issued retrospectively; 

A statement specifying the reason for the issuance; and

In the case of a document issued for personal use, a condition 

restricting the sale of the specimen within 6 months following the 

import of the specimen. 

3. If the importing U.S. Management Authority has agreed to accept the 

retrospectively-issued CITES document. then a retrospective document 

may be one of the following:

A. An amended CITES document that can show that the issuing 

Management Authority made a technical error that was not prompted 

by the applicant. 

B. A newly-issued CITES document that can show the applicant was 

misinformed by CITES officials or the circumstances in 50CFR 

§23.53(b)(5) (specimens for personal use) apply, and a shipment has 

occurred without a document.

4. In general, except when the exporter or re-export and import has 

demonstrated they were not responsible for the irregularities, any person 

who has been issued a CITES document in the past will not be eligible to 

receive a retrospective document.
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 2-105

Step 7: Ensure the Protected Plant Permit Has Not Expired

A USDA-APHIS ePermits issued Protected Plant Permit, is valid for two 

years from the date issued. The expiration date is specified on the permit.

All previously-issued PPQ Form 622, Protected Plant Permit have expired 

and are not valid.

Check the expiration date located in the upper right-hand corner of the 

Protected Plant Permit, and the permittee’s name.

Confirm PPP Valid or Apply for a PPP

Confirm the validity of the Protected Plant Permit as follows: 

1. Check ePermits to see if the importer has a valid Protected Plant Permit

(PPP)

.

2. If the importer does not have an ePermits-issued Protected Plant Permit

and is not a repeat violator who has disregarded your instructions to secure 

a Protected Plant Permit, then do the following: 

A. Have the importer go to ePermits, and complete the application for a 

PPQ 621: Application for protected plant permit to engage in the 

business of importing, exporting or re-exporting terrestrial plants or 

plant products that are protected; or 

B. Give the importer PPQ Form 621, Application for a Protected Plant 

Permit to Engage in Business of Importing, Exporting to apply for a 

Protected Plant Permit. 

Once you are satisfied that the importer has submitted the required application 

to the PPQ Permit Unit, then continue to process the importation. 

NOTICE

If the importer is a repeat violator who has disregarded your instructions to secure a Protected 

Plant Permit, then go to Violations of USDA Regulations on page 4-3 before continuing in 

this section. 
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

2-106 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

Step 8: Verify the Quantities Are Authorized

Review the entry paperwork accompanying the shipment to verify the quantity 

being imported corresponds with the quantity authorized on the CITES 

document (see Block 11 on the standard CITES form). 

The unit of quantity listed on a CITES document will vary according to the 

type of article. A list of commodities and the corresponding unit of measure or 

quantity (as recommended by the Convention or commonly used on CITES 

documents) follows in Table 2-10 below. 

For articles that are being imported in quantities recorded in units of cubic 

meters, square meters, or board feet, review the dimensional specification 

sheets or dimensional inventory tally sheets to more accurately determine the 

quantity shipped. To verify that the dimensional calculations on the entry 

papers equal the total quantity recorded on the CITES document, you may 

need to convert from one unit of quantity to another. See Conversion Formulas

Continue to Step 9: Inspect the Shipment, to confirm the actual quantity 

shipped.

Table 2-10 List of Commodities and Corresponding Units of Measure

Commodity Preferred Unit

Dowels Cubic meters (m3

) 

Logs Cubic meters (m3

) or board feet (bf)

Lumber Cubic meters (m3

) or board feet (bf)

Miscellaneous (furniture, pool cues, tool handles, and other 

similar manufactured items)

Cubic meters (m3), number (no.), or kilograms (kg)

Molding Cubic meters (m3

)

Musical instruments Number (no.)

Plywood Square meters (m2

) or cubic meters (m3)

Veneer Square meters (m2

) or cubic meters (m3)
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 2-107

Step 9: Inspect the Shipment

In addition to inspecting for plant pests, physically inspect the shipment to 

assess the actual quantity being imported. 

You may have to overcome the following difficulties in assessing the volume 

of material in the shipment:

Accessibility of containerized cargo

Bundles containing CITES-regulated material or timber are commingled 

with non-CITES material or timber

Bundles of lumber or veneer consisting of boards or sheets of various 

sizes

Enormity of the shipment

Identity of the pallets comprising the shipment

To inspect a representative sample of the shipment, assess the quantity of the 

shipment, and review the invoice, packing list, or dimensional specification 

sheets accompanying the consignment. Then determine the quantity of the 

representative unit (such as box, bundle, carton, etc.) of the shipment to 

sample. Continue to Table 2-11 below.

Continue to Table 2-12 on page 2-108 to determine the action to take based on 

your inspection.

Table 2-11 Determine the Quantity of a Representative Unit for Inspection

If: Then:

Quantity recorded on the CITES document is by 

weight

VERIFY that the weight of the unit you chose to inspect matches 

the unit’s weight as listed on the invoice or packing list

Quantity recorded on the CITES document is by 

number of pieces

VERIFY that the number of pieces in the unit you chose to inspect 

matches the unit’s number of pieces as listed on the invoice or 

packing list

Quantity recorded on the CITES document is in 

cubic meters, square meters, or board feet

CONDUCT a dimensional piece count1

 to verify that the quantity of 

the unit you chose to inspect matches the quantity listed for that 

unit on the invoice, packing list, or dimensional specification sheet

Quantity found by your physical inspection of a 

representative sample does not match the 

quantity listed on the invoice, packing list, or 

dimensional specification sheet

1. SELECT another representative unit for inspection

2. REPEAT the procedures listed above to determine the extent of 

the discrepancy 

1 To perform a dimensional piece count, you must measure each piece in the inspectional unit either by length and width; or 

by length, width, and height (thickness) and then multiply the subtotal by the number of pieces in the unit to calculate the 

total quantity of the unit. See Conversion Formulas for assistance.
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

2-108 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

Table 2-12 Determine Action Based on Inspection Results

If your inspection confirms: Then:

Quantity is equal to or less than the 

quantity listed on the CITES documents

CONTINUE to Step 10: Cancel CITES Documents By Stamp and 

Endorsement

Quantity is in excess of the quantity 

listed on the CITES document

Shipment is in violation of CITES regulations and is subject to seizure and 

forfeiture

1. SEE Violations, Seizures, and Forfeitures on page 4-1 for forfeiture 

procedures. If you have questions regarding the violations, seizures, 

and forfeitures procedures, then CONTACT the PPQ Botanist that 

services your 

port 1

 (through proper channels) 

2. In addition to seizure and forfeiture of the shipment, the importer may be 

subject to civil or criminal penalties. COMPLETE PPQ Form 518, Report 

of Violation, to document the violation. 

3. SCAN and E-MAIL a copy of the 518 to the National CITES Coordinator: 

E-mail: john.veremis@usda. gov

Subject: PPQ Form 518, Report of Violation

Attn: National CITES Coordinator

(In the near future, you will be notified to also send the actual document 

to Riverdale.)

Enterable articles are commingled with 

unauthorized (CITES regulated articles 

that are not recorded on the CITES 

document)

1. SEPARATE or SUPERVISE the separation of the enterable and 

unauthorized articles

2. PROCESS the authorized articles accordingly. GO to Step 10: Cancel 

CITES Documents By Stamp and Endorsement

3. CONTINUE to the next row for Unauthorized articles (CITES regulated 

articles that are not recorded on the CITES document)

Unauthorized articles 

(CITES regulated articles that are not

recorded on the CITES document)

Shipment is in violation of CITES regulations and is subject to seizure and 

forfeiture

1. SEE Violations, Seizures, and Forfeitures on page 4-1 for forfeiture 

procedures. If you have questions regarding the violations, seizures, 

and forfeitures procedures, then CONTACT the PPQ Botanist that 

services your port 1 (through proper channels) 

2. In addition to seizure and forfeiture of the shipment, the importer may be 

subject to civil or criminal penalties. COMPLETE PPQ Form 518, Report 

of Violation, to document the violation. 

3. SCAN and E-mail a copy of the 518 to the National CITES Coordinator: 

E-mail: john.veremis@usda. gov

Subject: PPQ Form 518, Report of Violation

Attn: National CITES Coordinator

(In the near future, you will be notified to send the actual document to 

Riverdale.)

1 CBP: To locate the name, phone number, and address of the PPQ Botanist that services your port, see the List of PPQ 

Identifiers and National Specialists.
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 2-109

Step 10: Cancel CITES Documents By Stamp and 

Endorsement

In addition to the original CITES document, the importer or the importer’s 

agent must give you two copies of the original. Never accept a poor quality 

copy or facsimile. Legible copies of the original CITES document are crucial. 

If the importer should choose to re-export all or part of the shipment in the 

future, then the exporter will need this document to prove that the timber or 

articles entered legally. 

If the shipment and permits comply with CITES and U.S. import regulations, 

then cancel by stamp (to show the document has been used) and endorse as 

follows:

1. Stamp the front of the original CITES document with your DHS-CBP 

Agriculture Specialist’s "Action Authorized" stamp. This stamp must bear 

your port location.

2. Sign your name in ink, and write your badge number and the date you 

stamped the original CITES document. 

3. Stamp and endorse (signature, badge number, date) the two legible copies 

of the original CITES document. Endorse the front of the copies the same 

as you endorse the original. Do not endorse the back of the copies.

NOTICE

Being able to read the quantity on the endorsed copies is imperative. Never cover 

critical fields of the CITES document with the DHS-CBP-Agriculture Specialist’s 

stamp.
Importation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

2-110 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

Step 11: Distribute the CITES Documents

Distribute the CITES documents as follows:

1. Give one legible, canceled (stamped), endorsed copy of the original CITES 

document to the importer or the importer’s agent.

2. Send the original, endorsed CITES document to the following U.S. FWS 

Management Authority office: 

Robert Anderson

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

Division of Management Authority 

5275 Leesburg Pike, MS: IA

Falls Church, VA 22041 

3. Keep a copy of the canceled (stamped) and endorsed original CITES 

document(s) and place in your port files.

NOTICE

CITES files must be retained for five years. See Filing System on page 2-3 for 

directions to maintain a CITES file.
05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 3-1

Chapter

3 Re-exportation of CITES 

Timber Species

Contents

Introduction 3-2

Preparation 3-3

Filing System 3-3

Procedures 3-4

FWS-USDA-CITES Clearance of Musical Instruments 3-4

CITES Contacts 3-5

Step 1: Confirm the Identity of Timber or Articles 3-6

Step 2: Confirm the Article Being Re-exported Is Protected 3-12

Step 3: Determine Your Authority 3-31

Step 4: Determine Which Documents Are Needed 3-32

Step 5: Collect the Documents Associated with the Shipment 3-73

Step 6: Ensure the Documents Have Not Expired 3-75

Step 7: Confirm the Legal Importation 3-77

Step 8: Verify the CITES Re-export Certificate Is Authentic and 

Acceptable 3-78

Step 9: Inspect the Shipment 3-83

Step 10: Validate the CITES Documents By Stamp and Endorsement 

3-85

Step 11: Distribute the CITES Documents 3-86

Transportation and Exportation (T&E) of CITES Appendix I, Appendix II, 

Appendix III Regulated Timber Species 3-87

Canada or Mexico 3-87

Immediate Exportation (IE) of CITES Appendix I, Appendix II, Appendix III 

Regulated Timber Species 3-88
Re-exportation of CITES Timber Species

Introduction

3-2 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

Introduction

The Re-exportation of CITES Timber Species chapter provides the guidelines 

for handling the re-exportation of CITES Appendix I, Appendix II, and 

Appendix III regulated timber species. These guidelines are to be used for the 

following:

Confirming that the commodity being re-exported is in a form which is 

regulated; 

Determining which permits and/or certificates are required for re-export;

Verifying that the documents are valid;

Inspecting the commodity to verify that the quantity in the re-export 

shipment matches the quantity listed on the CITES document;

Instructing the user on how to validate a CITES document; and

Distributing and filing the paperwork. 

PPQ Plant Health Safeguarding Specialists (PHSS) and Export Certification 

Specialists should use the guidelines in this chapter in conjunction with the 

phytosanitary requirements of the country of final destination. (See the Export 

Program Manual and the Phytosanitary Export Database in PCIT for these 

requirements.) 

NOTICE

A Federal Phytosanitary Certificate for Re-export for CITES Appendix I, Appendix II, 

or Appendix III Regulated Timber Species can only be issued at a designated port 

that is authorized to re-export CITES-regulated logs and lumber. Issuance of a 

Federal Phytosanitary Certificate for Re-export of CITES Appendix I, Appendix II, or 

Appendix III regulated timber is contingent upon compliance with all CITES 

requirements. Issue a Federal Phytosanitary Certificate for Re-export only if all 

CITES requirements have been satisfied.
Re-exportation of CITES Timber Species

Preparation

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 3-3

Preparation

As with other port documents, copies of CITES documents must also be filed 

in an organized, consistent manner. The CITES files and copies maintained at 

your port are important in case the originals become lost or destroyed. An 

accessible filing system will also enable you to comply with requests for 

information made by other government and non-government agencies, and the 

general public through the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA).

Filing System

If you already have a filing system for retaining CITES records in place at your 

port, please review these instructions to be sure your system is functional. If 

you do not have a filing system in place, then follow the instructions on the 

next page.

To set up a filing system, do as follows:

1. Decide on the filing system that is most practical for your location. Select 

one of the following methods to keep the records complete and accessible:

File alphabetically by permittee’s name

File chronologically by month and year

2. Select the documents to be filed. At a minimum, you must file the 

following in the order listed below:

A. CITES document (must be a validated copy)

B. Dimensional specification sheets (if applicable)

C. Invoice/packing list

D. Lading bill or air waybill

E. Phytosanitary Certificate (if required)

After you set up your filing system, you must maintain each file for a 

minimum of five years, counting from the date the re-exportation occurred. 

EXAMPLE A file must be maintained until January 24, 2017 for a re-exportation 

that occurred on January 24, 2012. 
Re-exportation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

3-4 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

Procedures

The procedures for handling the re-exportation of CITES Appendix I, 

Appendix II, and Appendix III regulated timber species are summarized in 

Table 3-1. 

FWS-USDA-CITES Clearance of Musical Instruments

The agreement between the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) and USDA, 

for the clearance of musical instruments made of non-living CITES plant 

material and CITES or non-CITES wildlife for export is as follows:

FWS Wildlife Inspectors can inspect and clear, including validation of 

CITES documents, shipments of products containing both CITES listed 

non-living plant species and any wildlife species (fauna/animal) that may 

be either CITES or non-CITES.

This guidance applies only to shipments of articles that contain both CITES 

listed non-living plants and CITES or non-CITES non-living wildlife. 

See U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service online guidance and the published letter on 

page A-19, as well as at CITES.org for more information on products 

containing both CITES-listed plants and CITES listed or non-CITES listed 

wildlife.

Table 3-1 Summary of Procedures for Handling the Re-exportation of CITES 

Appendix I, Appendix II, and Appendix III Regulated Timber Species

1. Confirm that the commodity is a CITES Appendix I, Appendix II, or Appendix III protected 

timber species.

2. Determine if the form of the commodity being re-exported is regulated by CITES. 

3. Determine if you have the authority to validate the shipment for re-export.

4. Determine which CITES documents must accompany the shipment. 

5. Collect all relevant documents associated with the re-exportation.

6. Verify that the CITES document accompanying the re-exportation is authentic and 

acceptable.

7. Verify that the USDA-APHIS Protected Plant Permit, has not expired.

8. Compare shipping documents with CITES documents to confirm quantities are 

authorized. 

9. Inspect the shipment to make sure quantities are authorized. 

10. If the shipment is in order, then validate the CITES documents by stamp and 

endorsement. 

11. Distribute and file the endorsed documents.
Re-exportation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 3-5

CITES Contacts

Some circumstances are identified in this chapter as requiring contacting the 

PPQ Botanist that services your port, and others require contacting the 

National CITES Specialist or the National CITES Coordinator. 

If after reading the procedures in this chapter, PPQ Officers still have a CITESrelated question regarding a shipment, then first contact the PPQ Botanist that 

services your port. 

If the PPQ Botanist is not available or is unable to answer your question, then 

contact the National CITES Specialist, Timothy Torbett, 

timothy.j.torbett@usda.gov or the National CITES Coordinator, John Veremis, 

john.veremis@usda.gov. Include your name, phone number, and e-mail 

address when contacting the National CITES Specialist or the National CITES 

Coordinator. 

Continue on to the steps below when handling the re-exportation of CITES 

Appendix I, Appendix II, and Appendix III regulated timber species used for 

lumber or other wood products.

NOTICE

The person making a CITES-related inquiry should include his or her name, phone 

number, and e-mail address so that the CITES Specialist or CITES Coordinator is 

able to reply or obtain additional details. 
Re-exportation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

3-6 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

Step 1: Confirm the Identity of Timber or Articles

Currently, there are 6 CITES Appendix I species, 26 CITES Appendix II taxa 

(21 species and 5 genera), and 7 CITES Appendix III species used for lumber 

or other wood products. 

The most frequently used common names (if any) are shown beside each 

scientific name. For a list of other common names, see CITES Timber Species 

Common Names on page 7-1.

Appendix I Timber Species

The CITES Appendix I regulated timber species are as follows:

Abies guatemalensis (Guatemalan fir)

Araucaria araucana (monkey puzzle tree)

Dalbergia nigra (Brazilian rosewood)

Fitzroya cupressoides (alerce)

Pilgerodendron uviferum (pilgerodendron)

Podocarpus parlatorei (Palatore’s podocarp)
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Procedures

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 3-7

Appendix II Timber Species

The CITES Appendix II regulated timber species or genera are as follows:

Adansonia grandidieri (giant boabab)

Afzelia spp. (pod mahogany)

Aniba rosaeodora (Brazilian rosewood) 

Bulnesia sarmientoi (gaiacwood) 

Caryocar costaricense (ajillo)

Cedrela spp. 

Dalbergia spp. (rosewoods) (except Dalbergia nigra (Brazilian rosewood)

Diospyros spp. (ebonies)

Gonystylus spp. (ramin)

Guaiacum spp. (lignum vitae) 

Guibourtia demeusei (red bubinga) 

Guibourtia pellegriniana (rose bubinga) 

Guibourtia tessmannii (rose bubinga) 

Khaya spp. (African mahogany)

Oreomunnea pterocarpa (gavilan)

Osyris lanceolata (African sandalwood)

Paubrasilia echinata (Brazilwood)

Pericopsis elata (afrormosia)

Platymiscium pleiostachyum (cristobal, granadillo)

Prunus africana (African cherry, pygeum) 

Pterocarpus spp.(African rosewood, red sandalwood)

Senna meridionalis (taraby)

Swietenia humilis (Pacific Coast mahogany)

Swietenia macrophylla (bigleaf mahogany)

Swietenia mahogani (Caribbean mahogany)

Widdringtonia whytei (Mulanje-cedar)

NOTICE

FWS Wildlife Inspectors can inspect and clear shipments of products containing both 

CITES listed non-living plant species and any wildlife species that may be either 

CITES or non-CITES listed species. This guidance only applies to shipments that 

contain both CITES listed plants and wildlife. See the FWS notice on page A-19.
Re-exportation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

3-8 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

Appendix III Timber Species 

The CITES Appendix III regulated timber species are as follows:

Dipteryx panamensis (almendro)

Fraxinus mandshurica (manchurian ash)

Magnolia liliifera var. obovata (magnolia)

Pinus koraiensis (Korean pine) 

Podocarpus neriifolius (podocarp)

Quercus mongolica (mongolian oak)

Tetracentron sinense (tetracentron)
Re-exportation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 3-9

Review the Shipping Documents

To confirm that the re-exportation is of a CITES Appendix I, Appendix II, or 

Appendix III timber species, review the shipping documents. Regulations 

require CITES plants be identified to their genus and species by one of the 

following:

Label 

Invoice

Packing list

Tag

Other document accompanying the shipment

The exporter or the exporter’s agent is responsible for providing you with the 

scientific name of the timber species traded. CITES regulated timber may be 

manifested or invoiced by a trade name or a local name. If you are given a 

common name or synonym that is not listed in the List of Common Names for 

CITES Appendix I, Appendix II, and Appendix III Timber Species on page 

7-1, and you want to confirm the scientific name of the material being reexported to determine if the wood is listed as regulated, then search the 

Checklist of CITES species database on the CITES web site.

Checklist of CITES Species Database

Use the new Checklist of CITES Species database to do the following:

Generate an Index of CITES Species (an alphabetical list of all plant taxa 

(and animal taxa) currently included in the CITES Appendixes)

Search and view by CITES Appendix listing

Search and view by common name (refer to the main record)

Search and view by country

Search and view by scientific name (main records and contain all 

information)

Search and view by scientific synonym (refer to the main record)

Provide a history of CITES Listings (an historical record of all CITES 

listings since 1975, including all reservations and annotations)

NOTICE

The Checklist of CITES species database does not include all common names and 

synonyms for CITES-regulated species.
Re-exportation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

3-10 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

CITES Timber Species Recognition and Wood Identification 

For timber species commodity recognition and a synopsis of wood 

identification, see Wood Identification on page E-1. For detailed instructions 

on how to identify wood of CITES regulated species, see the CITES 

Identification Guide—Tropical Woods guide.
Re-exportation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 3-11

Urgent Interception Identification

If after inspecting the wood or articles and reviewing the entry paperwork, you 

are still unable to determine the identity of the wood or articles, or suspect or 

question that the article is not as identified on the manifest or invoice, then do 

as follows:

1. Contact the PPQ Botanist1 that services your port to determine if taking a 

sample of the wood is necessary. 

2. You may be directed (by the PPQ Botanist), to sample the commodity and 

send the sample to either a PPQ Area Identifier specializing in CITES 

wood identification, or to the Forest Products Laboratory. 

3. Complete PPQ Form 309A, Interception Record, for URGENT 

interceptions, and assign a Port Reference Number for each specimen.

4. Enclose the specimen(s) and interception form(s) in an escape-proof 

package. Affix black and yellow tape to the outside of the package, and 

ship using an overnight delivery service with tracking capacity. 

5. If you have been instructed to send the interception(s) to a PPQ Area 

Identifier specializing in CITES wood identification, then see Table 3-2.

6. If you are instructed by the PPQ Area Identifier (specializing in CITES 

wood identification), to send the interception directly to the Forest 

Products Laboratory, then follow the packaging directions above and send 

the package to the following address:

USDA-Forest Products Laboratory

Attn: Alex C. Wiedenhoeft or Michael Wiemann

One Gifford Pinchot Drive

Madison, WI 53726-2398

Phone: 608/231-9384 (Alex) or 608/231-9258 (Michael) 

1 PPQ to locate the name and phone number of your PPQ Botanist, see the List of Identifiers, Colateral, and National Specialists. 

Table 3-2 List of PPQ Area Identifiers Specializing in CITES Wood Identification

Area PPQ Identifier Specializing in CITES Wood Identification Phone FAX

East USDA-APHIS-PPQ 

Plant Inspection Station 

Attn: Leo Castaneda, Botanist

PO Box 660520

Miami, FL 33266

305/492-1854 305/492-1742

West USDA-APHIS-PPQ 

Plant Inspection Station

Attn: Jamal Al-Henaid, Botanist

222 Kansas Street

El Segundo, CA 90245

310/955-3277 

or 

310/955-3279

310/955-3346
Re-exportation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

3-12 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

Step 2: Confirm the Article Being Re-exported Is Protected

CITES annotates some of the listed timber species to include or exclude certain 

parts and derivatives. 

To confirm that the listed article being re-exported is regulated by CITES 

Appendix I, Appendix II, or Appendix III, inspect the consignment and verify 

the description of the commodity on the accompanying shipping documents. 

Then continue to Table 3-3. 

NOTICE

Other woody species and species that simulate the growth characteristics of wood 

species (such as cycads and palms) used solely for medicinal purposes or herbal 

medicines or as horticultural specimens are not covered in this manual. See the 

Wood and Wood Byproducts section of the Agricultural Commodity and Import 

Requirements database.
Re-exportation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 3-13

Table 3-3 Determine if a Timber Species Is Regulated by CITES Appendix I, Appendix II, or 

Appendix III

If the timber 

species is:

And the 

country of 

origin is:

And the parts or 

derivatives being 

re-exported are:

And: Then:

Abies guatemalensis 

(Guatemalan fir)

Any country All parts and 

derivatives, 

including 

manufactured and 

finished products 1

Articles are CITES 

Appendix I regulated

GO to Step 3: Determine 

Your Authority on page 3-31

Adansonia 

grandidieri 

(giant boabab)

Any country All parts and 

derivatives except

seeds, spores, 

pollen (including 

pollenia); seedling 

or tissue cultures 

obtained in vitro, in 

solid or liquid 

media, transported 

in sterile containers; 

cut flowers of 

artificially 

propagated plants; 

fruits, and parts and 

derivatives of 

artificially 

propagated plants 

of the genus Vanilla

The articles are CITES 

Appendix II regulated

GO to Step 3: Determine 

Your Authority on page 3-31

NOTICE

Other woody species and species that simulate the growth characteristics of wood species (such as cycads 

and palms) used solely for medicinal purposes or herbal medicines or as horticultural specimens are not

covered in this manual. See the Wood and Wood Byproducts section of the Agricultural Commodity and 

Import Requirements database.
Re-exportation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

3-14 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

Afzelia spp.

(pod mahogany)

African 

countries

 Logs 3

 Lumber 4

 Veneer 5

 Plywood 18

 Transformed 

wood11

Articles are CITES 

Appendix II regulated

GO to Step 3: Determine 

Your Authority on page 3-31

Other than logs, 

lumber, veneer, 

plywood, 

transformed wood

1. VERIFY by physical 

inspection that the 

articles are not logs, 

lumber, veneer, plywood, 

transformed wood

2. The articles are not

CITES regulated; EXIT 

this manual

Other than

African 

countries

1. REVIEW the shipping 

documents to verify the 

country of origin is other 

than an African country

2. The articles are not

regulated by CITES; 

EXIT this manual

Table 3-3 Determine if a Timber Species Is Regulated by CITES Appendix I, Appendix II, or 

Appendix III (continued)

If the timber 

species is:

And the 

country of 

origin is:

And the parts or 

derivatives being 

re-exported are:

And: Then:
Re-exportation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 3-15

Aniba rosaeodora 

(Brazilian rosewood) 

Any country  Logs 3

 Lumber 4

 Plywood 18

 Veneer 5

Articles are CITES 

Appendix II regulated

GO to Step 3: Determine 

Your Authority on page 3-31

Extracts Are finished products 

containing extracts 

as ingredients, 

including fragrances

1. VERIFY by physical 

inspection that the 

articles are finished 

products containing 

extracts as ingredients, 

including fragrances

2. The articles are not

regulated by CITES; 

EXIT this manual

Are other than 

finished products 

containing extracts 

as ingredients

Articles are CITES 

Appendix II regulated

GO to the Wood and Wood 

Byproducts section of the 

Agricultural Commodity and 

Import Requirements 

database to regulate

Other than 

extracts, logs, 

lumber, plywood, 

veneer, or extracts

1. VERIFY by physical 

inspection that the 

articles are not extracts, 

logs, lumber, plywood, or 

veneer

2. The articles are not

regulated by CITES; 

EXIT this manual

Araucaria araucana 

(Monkey puzzle tree)

Any country All parts and 

derivatives, 

including 

manufactured and 

finished products 2

Articles are CITES 

Appendix I regulated

GO to Step 3: Determine 

Your Authority on page 3-31

Table 3-3 Determine if a Timber Species Is Regulated by CITES Appendix I, Appendix II, or 

Appendix III (continued)

If the timber 

species is:

And the 

country of 

origin is:

And the parts or 

derivatives being 

re-exported are:

And: Then:
Re-exportation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

3-16 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

Bulnesia sarmientoi 

(gaiacwood) 

Any country  Logs 3

 Lumber 4

 Plywood 18

 Veneer 5

Articles are CITES 

Appendix II regulated 

GO to Step 3: Determine 

Your Authority on page 3-31

 Extracts 

 Powder

Articles are CITES 

Appendix II regulated 

GO to the Wood and Wood 

Byproducts section of the 

Agricultural Commodity and 

Import Requirements 

database to regulate

Other than

extracts, logs, 

lumber, plywood, 

powder, or veneer

1. VERIFY by physical 

inspection the articles 

are not extracts, logs, 

lumber, plywood, 

powder, or veneer 

2. The articles are not

regulated by CITES; 

EXIT this manual

Caryocar 

costaricense

(ajillo)

Any country All parts and 

derivatives, 

including 

manufactured and 

finished products 3

Articles are CITES 

Appendix II regulated

GO to Step 3: Determine 

Your Authority on page 3-31

Cedrela spp. Neotropics 17

(includes 

articles 

originating in 

the Neotropics 

that were 

re-exported 

from another 

country)

 Logs 3

 Lumber 4

 Plywood

 Veneer 5

The articles are CITES 

Appendix II regulated

GO to Step 3: Determine 

Your Authority on page 3-31

Other than logs, 

lumber, plywood, or 

veneer

1. VERIFY by physical 

inspection that the 

articles are not logs, 

lumber, plywood, or 

veneer

2. The articles are not

regulated by CITES; 

EXIT this manual

Other than the 

Neotropics 17

1. REVIEW the shipping 

documents to verify the 

country of origin is other 

than the Neotropics 17

2. The articles are not

regulated by CITES; 

EXIT this manual

Table 3-3 Determine if a Timber Species Is Regulated by CITES Appendix I, Appendix II, or 

Appendix III (continued)

If the timber 

species is:

And the 

country of 

origin is:

And the parts or 

derivatives being 

re-exported are:

And: Then:
Re-exportation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 3-17

Dalbergia spp.

(rosewoods)

except Appendix I 

Dalbergia nigra

Mexico  Logs 3

 Lumber 4

 Plywood 18

 Veneer 5

Exported from 

Mexico 

The articles are CITES 

Appendix II (except

Dalbergia nigra Appendix I)

GO to Step 3: Determine 

Your Authority on page 3-31

Exported from other 

than Mexico 

The articles are CITES 

Appendix II (except

Dalbergia nigra Appendix I

GO to Step 3: Determine 

Your Authority on page 3-31

Other than logs, 

lumber, plywood, 

veneer

Exported from 

Mexico 

VERIFY by physical 

inspection that the articles 

are not logs, lumber, 

plywood, veneer

The articles are not

regulated by CITES; EXIT 

this manual

Exported from other 

than Mexico 

The articles are CITES 

Appendix II (except

Dalbergia nigra Appendix I)

GO to Step 3: Determine 

Your Authority on page 3-31

Other than 

Mexico

CONTINUE to next page

Table 3-3 Determine if a Timber Species Is Regulated by CITES Appendix I, Appendix II, or 

Appendix III (continued)

If the timber 

species is:

And the 

country of 

origin is:

And the parts or 

derivatives being 

re-exported are:

And: Then:
Re-exportation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

3-18 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

Dalbergia spp.

(rosewoods)

except Appendix I 

Dalbergia nigra

(continued from 

previous page)

Other than 

Mexico

All parts and 

derivatives except

leaves, flowers, 

pollen, fruits, seeds, 

Finished musical 

instruments, 

Finished musical 

instrument 

accessories, 

Finished musical 

instrument parts

Other than finished 

products 

The articles are CITES 

Appendix II 

GO to Step 3: Determine 

Your Authority on page 3-31

Finished products 

weigh more than 

10 kg per shipment 4

(wood weight per 

product) 4

The articles are CITES 

Appendix II GO to Step 3: 

Determine Your Authority on 

page 3-31

Finished products 

maximum weight 

10 kg or less per 

shipment 4

(wood weight per 

product) 4

VERIFY by physical 

inspection that the shipment 

is 10 kg or less

The articles are not

regulated by CITES

Finished musical 

instruments

Finished musical 

instrument 

accessories, 

Finished musical 

instrument parts

VERIFY by physical 

inspection that the articles 

are finished musical 

instruments, finished 

musical instrument 

accessories, and finished 

musical instrument parts

The articles are not

regulated by CITES

Leaves, flowers, 

pollen, fruits, seeds 

VERIFY by physical 

inspection that the articles 

are flowers, fruits, leaves, 

pollen, seeds 

The articles are not

regulated by CITES; EXIT 

this manual

Dalbergia nigra

(Brazilian rosewood)

Any country All parts and 

derivatives, 

including 

manufactured and 

finished products 

The articles are CITES 

Appendix I regulated

GO to Step 3: Determine 

Your Authority on page 3-31

Table 3-3 Determine if a Timber Species Is Regulated by CITES Appendix I, Appendix II, or 

Appendix III (continued)

If the timber 

species is:

And the 

country of 

origin is:

And the parts or 

derivatives being 

re-exported are:

And: Then:
Re-exportation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 3-19

Diospyros spp. 

(ebonies) 

Madagascar 

(includes 

articles 

originating in 

Madagascar 

that were reexported from 

another 

country)

 Logs 3

 Lumber 4

 Veneer 5

The articles are CITES 

Appendix II regulated

GO to Step 3: Determine 

Your Authority on page 3-31

Other than logs, 

lumber, and veneer 

1. VERIFY, by physical 

inspection, that the 

articles are not logs, 

lumber, or veneer 

2. The articles are not

regulated by CITES; 

EXIT this manual

Other than 

Madagascar

1. REVIEW the shipping 

documents to verify the 

country of origin is other 

than Madagascar

2. The articles are not

regulated by CITES; 

EXIT this manual

Dipteryx panamensis

(almendro)

Any country All parts and 

derivatives, 

including 

manufactured and 

finished products 5

The articles are CITES 

Appendix III regulated

GO to Step 3: Determine 

Your Authority on page 3-31

Fitzroya 

cupressoides 

(alerce)

Any country All parts and 

derivatives, 

including 

manufactured and 

finished products 6

The articles are CITES 

Appendix I regulated

GO to Step 3: Determine 

Your Authority on page 3-31

Fraxinus 

mandshurica

(manchurian ash)

Any country  Logs

 Lumber

 Veneer

The articles are CITES 

Appendix III regulated

GO to Step 3: Determine 

Your Authority on page 3-31

Other than logs, 

lumber, or veneer

1. VERIFY, by physical 

inspection, that the 

articles are not logs, 

lumber, or veneer sheets

2. The articles are not

regulated by CITES; 

EXIT this manual

Table 3-3 Determine if a Timber Species Is Regulated by CITES Appendix I, Appendix II, or 

Appendix III (continued)

If the timber 

species is:

And the 

country of 

origin is:

And the parts or 

derivatives being 

re-exported are:

And: Then:
Re-exportation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

3-20 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

Khaya spp.

(African mahogany)

African 

countries

 Logs 3

 Lumber 4

 Veneer 5

 Plywood 18

 Transformed 

wood11

Articles are CITES 

Appendix II regulated

GO to Step 3: Determine 

Your Authority on page 3-31

Other than logs, 

lumber, veneer, 

plywood, 

transformed wood

VERIFY by physical 

inspection that the articles 

are not logs, lumber, 

veneer, plywood, 

transformed wood

The articles are not CITES 

regulated; EXIT this manual

Other than

African 

countries

1. REVIEW the shipping 

documents to verify the 

country of origin is other 

than an African country

2. The articles are not

regulated by CITES; 

EXIT this manual

Gonystylus spp. 

(ramin)

Any country All parts and 

derivatives, 

including 

manufactured and 

finished products 7

The articles are CITES 

Appendix II regulated

GO to Step 3: Determine 

Your Authority on page 3-31

Guaiacum spp.

(lignum vitae)

Any country All parts and 

derivatives, except

finished products 

packaged and 

ready for retail

trade 8

The articles are CITES 

Appendix II regulated

GO to Step 3: Determine 

Your Authority on page 3-31

Finished products 

packaged and 

ready for retail trade 

1. VERIFY by physical 

inspection that the 

articles are not finished 

products packaged and 

ready for retail trade

2. The articles are not

regulated by CITES; 

EXIT this manual

Table 3-3 Determine if a Timber Species Is Regulated by CITES Appendix I, Appendix II, or 

Appendix III (continued)

If the timber 

species is:

And the 

country of 

origin is:

And the parts or 

derivatives being 

re-exported are:

And: Then:
Re-exportation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 3-21

Guibourtia demeusei Any country All parts and 

derivatives except

leaves, flowers, 

pollen, fruits, seeds, 

Finished musical 

instruments, 

Finished musical 

instrument 

accessories, 

Finished musical 

instrument parts

Other than finished 

products

The articles are CITES 

Appendix II 

GO to Step 3: Determine 

Your Authority on page 3-31

Finished products 

weigh more than 

10 kg per shipment 

(wood weight per 

product) 4

The articles are CITES 

Appendix II GO to Step 3: 

Determine Your Authority on 

page 3-31

Finished products 

maximum weight 

10 kg or less per 

shipment 4

(wood weight per 

product) 4

VERIFY by physical 

inspection that the shipment 

is 10 kg or less

The articles are not

regulated by CITES

Finished musical 

instruments

Finished musical 

instrument 

accessories, 

Finished musical 

instrument parts

VERIFY by physical 

inspection that the articles 

are finished musical 

instruments, finished 

musical instrument 

accessories, and finished 

musical instrument parts

The articles are not

regulated by CITES

Leaves, flowers, 

pollen, fruits, seeds 

VERIFY by physical 

inspection that the articles 

are flowers, fruits, leaves, 

pollen, seeds 

The articles are not

regulated by CITES; EXIT 

this manual

Table 3-3 Determine if a Timber Species Is Regulated by CITES Appendix I, Appendix II, or 

Appendix III (continued)

If the timber 

species is:

And the 

country of 

origin is:

And the parts or 

derivatives being 

re-exported are:

And: Then:
Re-exportation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

3-22 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

Guibourtia 

pellegriniana

Any country All parts and 

derivatives except

leaves, flowers, 

pollen, fruits, seeds, 

Finished musical 

instruments, 

Finished musical 

instrument 

accessories, 

Finished musical 

instrument parts

Other than finished 

products

The articles are CITES 

Appendix II 

GO to Step 3: Determine 

Your Authority on page 3-31

Finished products 

weigh more than 

10 kg per shipment 

(wood weight per 

product) 4

The articles are CITES 

Appendix II GO to Step 3: 

Determine Your Authority on 

page 3-31

Finished products 

maximum weight 

10 kg or less per 

shipment 4

(wood weight per 

product) 4

VERIFY by physical 

inspection that the shipment 

is 10 kg or less

The articles are not

regulated by CITES

Finished musical 

instruments

Finished musical 

instrument 

accessories, 

Finished musical 

instrument parts

VERIFY by physical 

inspection that the articles 

are finished musical 

instruments, finished 

musical instrument 

accessories, and finished 

musical instrument parts

The articles are not

regulated by CITES

Leaves, flowers, 

pollen, fruits, seeds 

VERIFY by physical 

inspection that the articles 

are flowers, fruits, leaves, 

pollen, seeds 

The articles are not

regulated by CITES; EXIT 

this manual

Table 3-3 Determine if a Timber Species Is Regulated by CITES Appendix I, Appendix II, or 

Appendix III (continued)

If the timber 

species is:

And the 

country of 

origin is:

And the parts or 

derivatives being 

re-exported are:

And: Then:
Re-exportation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 3-23

Guibourtia 

tessmannii 

Any country All parts and 

derivatives except

leaves, flowers, 

pollen, fruits, seeds, 

Finished musical 

instruments, 

Finished musical 

instrument 

accessories, 

Finished musical 

instrument parts

Other than finished 

products

The articles are CITES 

Appendix II 

GO to Step 3: Determine 

Your Authority on page 3-31

Finished products 

weigh more than 

10 kg per shipment 

(wood weight per 

product) 4

The articles are CITES 

Appendix II GO to Step 3: 

Determine Your Authority on 

page 3-31

Finished products 

maximum weight 

10 kg or less per 

shipment 4

(wood weight per 

product) 4

VERIFY by physical 

inspection that the shipment 

is 10 kg or less

The articles are not

regulated by CITES

Finished musical 

instruments

Finished musical 

instrument 

accessories, 

Finished musical 

instrument parts

VERIFY by physical 

inspection that the articles 

are finished musical 

instruments, finished 

musical instrument 

accessories, and finished 

musical instrument parts

The articles are not

regulated by CITES

Leaves, flowers, 

pollen, fruits, seeds 

VERIFY by physical 

inspection that the articles 

are flowers, fruits, leaves, 

pollen, seeds 

The articles are not

regulated by CITES; EXIT 

this manual

Magnolia liliifera

var. obovata

(magnolia)

Any country All parts and 

derivatives, 

including 

manufactured and 

finished products 9

The articles are CITES 

Appendix III regulated

GO to Step 3: Determine 

Your Authority on page 3-31

Oreomunnea 

pterocarpa 

(gavilan)

Any country All parts and 

derivatives, 

including 

manufactured and 

finished products 10

The articles are CITES 

Appendix II regulated

GO to Step 3: Determine 

Your Authority on page 3-31

Table 3-3 Determine if a Timber Species Is Regulated by CITES Appendix I, Appendix II, or 

Appendix III (continued)

If the timber 

species is:

And the 

country of 

origin is:

And the parts or 

derivatives being 

re-exported are:

And: Then:
Re-exportation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

3-24 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

Osyris lanceolata 

(African sandalwood) 

Burundi, 

Ethiopia, 

Kenya, 

Rwanda, 

Uganda, United 

Republic of 

Tanzania

(includes 

articles that 

originated in the 

countries above 

that were reexported from 

another 

country)

All parts and 

derivatives except

finished products 

packaged and 

ready for retail trade

The articles are CITES 

Appendix II regulated

GO to Step 3: Determine 

Your Authority on page 3-31

Finished products 

packaged and 

ready for retail trade 

1. VERIFY by physical 

inspection that the 

articles are finished 

products packaged and 

ready for retail trade

2. The articles are not

regulated by CITES; 

EXIT this manual

Other than 

Burundi, 

Ethiopia, 

Kenya, 

Rwanda, 

Uganda, United 

Republic of 

Tanzania

1. REVIEW the shipping 

documents to verify the 

country of origin is other 

than Burundi, Ethiopia, 

Kenya, Rwanda, 

Uganda, United Republic 

of Tanzania

2. The articles are not

regulated by CITES; 

EXIT this manual

Table 3-3 Determine if a Timber Species Is Regulated by CITES Appendix I, Appendix II, or 

Appendix III (continued)

If the timber 

species is:

And the 

country of 

origin is:

And the parts or 

derivatives being 

re-exported are:

And: Then:
Re-exportation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 3-25

Paubrasilia echinata 

(Brazilwood)

Any country All parts and 

derivatives and 

finished products 

except

Finished musical 

instruments, 

Finished musical 

instrument 

accessories, 

Finished musical 

instrument parts

Other than finished 

products

Articles are CITES 

Appendix II regulated

GO to Step 3: Determine 

Your Authority on page 3-31

Finished products 

maximum weight 

more than 

10 kg per shipment 6

(wood each product)

Articles are CITES 

Appendix II regulated

GO to Step 3: Determine 

Your Authority on page 3-31

Finished products 

maximum weight 

10 kg or less per 

shipment 6

(wood each product) 

VERIFY by physical 

inspection that the shipment 

is 10 kg or less

The articles are not

regulated by CITES

Finished musical 

instruments, 

Finished musical 

instrument 

accessories, 

Finished musical 

instrument parts

VERIFY by physical 

inspection that the articles 

are finished musical 

instruments, finished 

musical instrument 

accessories, and finished 

musical instrument parts

The articles are not

regulated by CITES

Pericopsis elata 

(afrormosia)

Any country  Logs 3

 Lumber 4

 Transformed 

wood 11

 Veneer 5

The articles are CITES 

Appendix II regulated

GO to Step 3: Determine 

Your Authority on page 3-31

Other than logs, 

lumber, or veneer

1. VERIFY, by physical 

inspection, the articles 

are not logs, lumber, or 

veneer

2. The articles are not

regulated by CITES; 

EXIT this manual

Pilgerodendron 

uviferum

(pilgerodendron)

Any country All parts and 

derivatives, 

including 

manufactured and 

finished products12

The articles are CITES 

Appendix I regulated

GO to Step 3: Determine 

Your Authority on page 3-31

Table 3-3 Determine if a Timber Species Is Regulated by CITES Appendix I, Appendix II, or 

Appendix III (continued)

If the timber 

species is:

And the 

country of 

origin is:

And the parts or 

derivatives being 

re-exported are:

And: Then:
Re-exportation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

3-26 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

Pinus koraiensis

(Korean pine)

Any country  Logs 3

 Lumber 4

 Veneer 5

The articles are CITES 

Appendix III regulated

GO to Step 3: Determine 

Your Authority on page 3-31

Other than logs, 

lumber, or veneer

1. VERIFY by physical 

inspection that the 

articles are not logs, 

lumber, or veneer

2. The articles are not

regulated by CITES; 

EXIT this manual

Platymiscium 

pleiostachym 

(cristobal graradillo)

Any country All parts and 

derivatives 

including 

manufactured and 

finished products 13

The articles are CITES 

Appendix II regulated

GO to Step 3: Determine 

Your Authority on page 3-31

Podocarpus 

neriifolius

(podocarp)

Any country All parts and 

derivatives, 

including 

manufactured and 

finished products 14

The articles are CITES 

Appendix III regulated

GO to Step 3: Determine 

Your Authority on page 3-31

Podocarpus 

parlatorei 

(Parlatore’s 

podocarp)

Any country All parts and 

derivatives, 

including 

manufactured and 

finished products 15

The articles are CITES 

Appendix I regulated

GO to Step 3: Determine 

Your Authority on page 3-31

Prunus africana 

(African cherry, 

pygeum)

Any country All parts and 

derivatives 

including finished 

products packaged 

and ready for retail 

sale

The articles are CITES 

Appendix II regulated

GO to Step 3: Determine 

Your Authority on page 3-31

Table 3-3 Determine if a Timber Species Is Regulated by CITES Appendix I, Appendix II, or 

Appendix III (continued)

If the timber 

species is:

And the 

country of 

origin is:

And the parts or 

derivatives being 

re-exported are:

And: Then:
Re-exportation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 3-27

Pterocarpus spp.

(African rosewood, 

kosso)

except Pterocarpus 

santalinus

African 

countries

 Logs 3

 Lumber 4

 Veneer 5

 Plywood 18

 Transformed 

wood11

Articles are CITES 

Appendix II regulated

GO to Step 3: Determine 

Your Authority on page 3-31

Other than logs, 

lumber, veneer, 

plywood, 

transformed wood

VERIFY by physical 

inspection that the articles 

are not logs, lumber, 

veneer, plywood, 

transformed wood

The articles are not CITES 

regulated; EXIT this manual

Other than

African 

countries

1. REVIEW the shipping 

documents to verify the 

country of origin is other 

than an African country

2. The articles are not

regulated by CITES; 

EXIT this manual

Pterocarpus 

santalinus 

(red sandalwood, 

redsanders)

Any country  Logs 3

 Wood chips 16

The articles are CITES 

Appendix II regulated

GO to Step 3: Determine 

Your Authority on page 3-31

Other than logs or 

wood chips

1. VERIFY by physical 

inspection that the 

articles are not logs or 

wood chips

2. The articles are not

regulated by CITES; 

EXIT this manual

Quercus mongolica

(mongolian oak)

Any country  Logs 3

 Lumber 4

 Veneer 5

The articles are CITES 

Appendix III regulated

GO to Step 3: Determine 

Your Authority on page 3-31

Other than logs, 

lumber, and veneer

1. VERIFY by physical 

inspection, that the 

articles are not logs, 

lumber, and veneer

2. The articles are not

regulated by CITES; 

EXIT this manual

Table 3-3 Determine if a Timber Species Is Regulated by CITES Appendix I, Appendix II, or 

Appendix III (continued)

If the timber 

species is:

And the 

country of 

origin is:

And the parts or 

derivatives being 

re-exported are:

And: Then:
Re-exportation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

3-28 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

Senna meridionalis 

(taraby) 

Any country All parts and 

derivatives 

including 

manufactured and 

finished products 

The articles are CITES 

Appendix II regulated

GO to Step 3: Determine 

Your Authority on page 3-31

Swietenia humilis 

(Pacific Coast 

mahogany)

Any country All parts and 

derivatives, 

including 

manufactured and 

finished products 15

The articles are CITES 

Appendix II regulated

GO to Step 3: Determine 

Your Authority on page 3-31

Swietenia 

macrophylla 

(bigleaf mahogany)

Neotropics 17

(includes 

articles 

originating in 

the Neotropics 

that were reexported from 

another 

country)

 Logs 3

 Lumber 4

 Plywood 18

 Veneer 5

The articles are CITES 

Appendix II regulated

GO to Step 3: Determine 

Your Authority on page 3-31

Other than logs, 

lumber, plywood, or 

veneer

1. VERIFY by physical 

inspection, that the 

articles are not logs, 

lumber, plywood, or 

veneer

2. The articles are not

regulated by CITES; 

EXIT this manual

Other than 

the Neotropics

1. REVIEW the shipping 

documents to verify the 

country of origin is other 

than the Neotropics

2. The articles are not

regulated by CITES; 

EXIT this manual

Swietenia mahogani 

(Caribbean 

mahogany)

Any country  Logs 3

 Lumber 4

 Veneer 5

The articles are CITES 

Appendix II regulated

GO to Step 3: Determine 

Your Authority on page 3-31

Other than logs, 

lumber, or veneer

1. VERIFY, by physical 

inspection, the articles 

are not logs, lumber, or 

veneer

2. The articles are not

regulated by CITES; 

EXIT this manual

Tetracentron sinense 

(tetracentron)

Any country All parts and 

derivatives, 

including 

manufactured and 

finished products 19

The articles are CITES 

Appendix III regulated

GO to Step 3: Determine 

Your Authority on page 3-31

Table 3-3 Determine if a Timber Species Is Regulated by CITES Appendix I, Appendix II, or 

Appendix III (continued)

If the timber 

species is:

And the 

country of 

origin is:

And the parts or 

derivatives being 

re-exported are:

And: Then:
Re-exportation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 3-29

Widdringtonia whytei

(Mulanje cedar)

Any country All parts and 

derivatives 

including 

manufactured and 

finished products 20

The articles are CITES 

Appendix II regulated

GO to Step 3: Determine 

Your Authority on page 3-31

1 Includes building material, cabinetmaking material, charcoal, firewood, flooring, food containers, fuel wood, furniture, joinery, 

light construction material, matches, particleboard, plywood, pulp/paper products, roof shingles, and veneer, etc.

2 Includes construction material, flooring, furniture, joinery, plywood, pulp railroad ties, and vehicle parts, etc.

3 Includes railroad ties, etc.

4 Ten (10) kilograms (kg) per shipment, the 10 kg limit should be interpreted as referring to the weight of the individual portions 

of each item in the shipment made of wood of the species concerned. In other words, the 10 kg limit is to be assessed 

against the weight of the individual portions of wood of Dalbergia or Guibortia species contained in each item of the shipment, rather than against the total weight of the shipment. 

5 Includes agricultural implements, bearings and bushings, barge and dock fenders, boat construction articles, chemical 

derivatives, cogs and shafts, cross ties, fishing rods, flooring, furniture, heavy construction and pulp mill equipment, railroad 

ties, sporting goods, tool handles, turnery, and veneer, etc.

6 Includes agricultural implements, boat building materials (general), boat masts, boxes and crates, cabinetmaking materials, 

carvings, cigar boxes, construction materials, cooperages, flooring, food containers, fuel wood, furniture, furniture 

components, joinery, mathematical instruments, mine timbers, musical instruments, particleboard, pencils, piling, plywood, 

poles, pulp/paper products, shakes, shingles, sporting goods, toys, and vats, etc.

7 Includes brush backs, building materials, ceilings, counter tops, door frames, dowels, flooring, furniture, joinery, mouldings, 

nonstriking handles (such as brooms and umbrellas), paneling, picture frames, plywood, pool cues and racks, rulers, shoji 

screens, stair treads, stringers, tool handles, toys, trays, tripods, turnery, venetian blinds, window blinds, and window 

frames, etc.

8 Guaiacum spp. products include: bearings and bushings, boat building materials (general), brush backs and handles, bush 

blocks, farm vehicles, furniture, golf club heads, machinery parts, marine construction material, mathematical instruments, 

naval architecture, pulley sheaves, railroad ties, shade rollers, sporting goods, tables, textile equipment, turnery, and 

wheels, etc. Regulating depends on whether or not they are finished products and packaged and ready for retail trade.

9 Trade in this species is rare. If you encounter a regulated article made of this species, then contact the Manuals Unit at 240-

529-0357 to add the article to this list.

10 Includes a variety of uses within the species’ natural range. If you encounter a regulated article made of this species, then

contact the Manuals Unit to add the article to this list.

11 Transformed wood: Wood (including strips, friezes for parquet flooring, not assembled), continuously shaped (tongued, 

grooved, v-jointed, beaded or the like) along any edges, ends or faces, whether or not planned, sanded or end-jointed (as 

defined by HS code 44.09): 

12 Includes flooring, furniture, posts, and timber, etc. (Wood is noted for its longevity in moist environments.)

13 Includes furniture, musical instruments, timber, and veneer, etc.

14 Trade in this species is rare. If you encounter a regulated article made of this species, then contact the Manuals Unit to add 

the article to this list.

15 Includes timber.

16 Wood chips: Wood that has been reduced to small pieces.

17 The Neotropics include the Caribbean, Central America, Mexico, and South America.

18 Plywood: Consisting of three or more sheets of wood glued and pressed one on the other and generally disposed so that 

the grains of successive layers are at an angle (HS Code 44.12.13, HS Code 44.12.14, and HS Code 44.12.22). See 

Appendix D, Harmonized System of the World.

Table 3-3 Determine if a Timber Species Is Regulated by CITES Appendix I, Appendix II, or 

Appendix III (continued)

If the timber 

species is:

And the 

country of 

origin is:

And the parts or 

derivatives being 

re-exported are:

And: Then:
Re-exportation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

3-30 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

19 Trade in this species is rare. If you encounter a regulated article made of this species, then contact the Manuals Unit to add 

the article to this list.

20 Includes furniture, musical instruments, timber, and veneer, etc.
Re-exportation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 3-31

Step 3: Determine Your Authority

If you are not certain that your port is designated for the re-exportation of 

CITES regulated timber, then check the appropriate designated CITES ports 

list. See Designated CITES Ports and Plant Inspection Stations CITES Staff on 

page 5-1to confirm. 

If you are located at a CITES-designated port, then continue to Step 4: 

Determine Which Documents Are Needed. 

If you are not located at a CITES-designated port, then you are not authorized 

to certify the CITES re-export shipment. Provide the re-exporter with the 

option of having the owner or owner’s agent arrange to move the shipment to a 

designated port (at the owner’s expense), and give the name and location of the 

port. Notify the designated port of the pending arrival.

Continue to Step 4: Determine Which Documents Are Needed on page 3-32.

NOTICE

50 CFR §24 lists the log and lumber ports as designated only for the importation of 

CITES regulated timber species. The CFR will eventually be amended to include 

exportation and re-exportation. In the interim, all ports approved for the importation 

of logs and lumber are also approved for the exportation and re-exportation of CITES 

regulated timber species.
Re-exportation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

3-32 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

Step 4: Determine Which Documents Are Needed

To determine which documents are needed for the legal re-exportation of 

CITES regulated timber, use the appropriate table as follows:

CITES Appendix I, see Table 3-4

CITES Appendix II, see Table 3-5

CITES Appendix III, see Table 3-6

Required Documents for Re-exportation of Appendix I Timber Species

The re-exportation of CITES Appendix I timber species is permitted when 

presented with the appropriate CITES documentation for the following 

categories of trade:

Articles derived from trees cut in the wild for non-commercial use (when 

presented with a USFWS-issued CITES Re-export Certificate and a 

CITES Import Permit)

Articles derived from plantation-grown trees (when presented with a 

USFWS-issued CITES Re-export Certificate designating either source 

code A for artificially-propagated material being traded for noncommercial purposes; or source code D for artificially-propagated 

material being traded for commercial purposes)

Articles acquired prior to the date the Convention listed the species 

(when presented with a USFWS-issued CITES Other Certificate

designating Pre-Convention specimens; and designating the date of 

acquisition or certification that the specimens were acquired before the 

date first included in the CITES appendices) 

See Table 3-4 on page 3-33 to determine which documents are required for the 

re-export of CITES Appendix I regulated timber species. 

NOTICE

In addition to any CITES re-export documents listed as required in this manual, a 

Federal Phytosanitary Certificate may also be required. See the Export Program 

Manual and EXCERPT.

NOTICE

Commercial trade in CITES Appendix I species originating from the wild is 

prohibited. 
Re-exportation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 3-33

Table 3-4 Determine Which Documents Are Needed for the Re-exportation of CITES Appendix I Timber 

Species

If the article 

comes from:

And country 

of origin is:

And the 

permittee: And the exporter: Then:

Abies 

guatemalensis 

(Guatemalan fir)

Araucaria 

araucana 

(monkey puzzle 

tree)

Dalbergia nigra 

(Brazilian 

rosewood)

Fitzroya 

cupressoides 

(alerce)

Pilgerodendron 

uviferum 

(pilgerodendron)

Podocarpus 

parlatorei 

(Parlatore’s 

podocarp)

Any country Is engaged 

in 

commercial 

business 1

, 2

Presents a USDA-APHIS 

ePermits-issued Protected Plant 

Permit, and one of the following 

USFWS-issued CITES Appendix 

I re-export documents 3, 4: 

 Re-export Certificate 

designating source code D 

for artificially propagated 

(plantation grown) material 

being traded for commercial 

purposes 

 Other Certificate designating 

Pre-Convention specimens; 

and designating the date of 

acquisition or certification the 

specimens were acquired 

before the date first included 

in the CITES appendices 

A Federal phytosanitary 

certificate may be required to 

accompany the shipment; see 

XPM, PCIT, and notice above

GO to Step 5: Collect the 

Documents Associated with 

the Shipment on page 3-73

Lacks the required CITES 

document

1. PLACE the shipment on 

HOLD 

2. GO to Violations, 

Seizures, and Forfeitures

on page 4-1

Lacks a Protected Plant Permit ALLOW the exporter to apply 

for a Protected Plant Permit 

(see Confirm PPP Valid or 

Apply for a PPP on page 

3-75)

Has an expired Protected Plant 

Permit

Is not

engaged in 

commercial 

business

GO to page 3-34

NOTICE

A Federal Phytosanitary Certificate for Re-export of CITES Appendix I, Appendix II, or Appendix III 

regulated timber species can only be issued at a designated port that is authorized to re-export CITES 

regulated logs and lumber. Issuance of a Federal Phytosanitary Certificate for Re-export of CITES 

Appendix I, Appendix II, or Appendix III timber species is contingent upon compliance with all CITES 

requirements. Issue the Federal Phytosanitary Certificate for Re-export only if all CITES requirements have 

been satisfied. See the Export Certification Manual (XPM) and PCIT.
Re-exportation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

3-34 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

Abies 

guatemalensis 

(Guatemalan fir)

Araucaria 

araucana

(monkey puzzle 

tree)

Dalbergia nigra 

(Brazilian 

rosewood)

Fitzroya 

cupressoides 

(alerce)

Pilgerodendron 

uviferum 

(pilgerodendron)

Podocarpus 

parlatorei 

(Parlatore’s 

podocarp)

Any country Is not

engaged in 

commercial 

business

Presents both of the following 

CITES Appendix I documents:

 USFWS-issued CITES 

Re-export Certificate 3, 4 

designating source code W 

for specimens collected from 

the wild

 Import Permit issued by the 

Management Authority in the 

country of destination

OR

Presents one of the following 

USFWS-issued CITES 

Appendix I re-export documents

3

,

4

:

 Re-export Certificate

designating source code A 

for artificially propagated 

(plantation grown) material 

being traded for 

noncommercial purposes

 Other Certificate designating 

Pre-Convention specimens; 

and designating the date of 

acquisition or certification the 

specimens were acquired 

before the first date included 

in the CITES appendices 

A phytosanitary certificate may 

be required to accompany the 

shipment; see notice page 3-33

GO to Step 5: Collect the 

Documents Associated with 

the Shipment on page 3-73

Lacks the required CITES 

document

1. PLACE the shipment on 

HOLD

2. GO to Violations, 

Seizures, and Forfeitures

1 Engaged in commercial business is defined as trade for the purpose of selling, bartering, collecting, or otherwise as a 

livelihood for gain or profit.

2 Commercial trade in CITES Appendix I species originating in the wild is prohibited.

3 If Block 5, Special Conditions, of the USFWS-issued CITES Re-export Certificate so states, then a CBP/PPQ validated copy 

of the CITES Export Permit or Certificate issued by the Management Authority in the country of origin is required to be 

attached (to the USFWS-issued CITES Re-export Certificate).

4 USFWS-DMA is phasing in the issuance of CITES permits and certificates on security paper. The original must accompany 

the shipment. If the permittee intends to export once, then the permittee will be issued a single original certificate. If the 

permittee intends to export more than one shipment, then the permittee will be issued multiple originals.

Table 3-4 Determine Which Documents Are Needed for the Re-exportation of CITES Appendix I Timber 

Species (continued)

If the article 

comes from:

And country 

of origin is:

And the 

permittee: And the exporter: Then:
Re-exportation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 3-35

Required Documents for Re-exportation of Appendix II Timber Species

The re-exportation of CITES Appendix II timber species is permitted when 

presented with the appropriate CITES documentation for the following 

categories of trade:

Articles derived from trees cut in the wild 

(when presented with a USFWS-issued CITES Re-export Certificate)

Articles derived from plantation-grown trees 

(when presented with a USFWS-issued CITES Re-export Certificate

designating source code A for artificial propagation)

Articles acquired prior to the date the CITES Convention listed the 

species

(when presented with a USFWS-issued CITES Other Certificate 

designating Pre-Convention specimens; and designating the date of 

acquisition or certification that the specimens were acquired before the 

date first included in the CITES appendices)

See Table 3-5 on page 3-36 to determine which documents are required for the 

re-exportation of CITES Appendix II regulated timber species. 
Re-exportation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

3-36 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

Table 3-5 Determine Which Documents Are Needed for the Re-exportation of CITES Appendix II 

Regulated Timber Species

If the article comes 

from:

And country 

of origin is:

And the 

permittee: And the re-exporter: Then:

Afzelia spp.

(pod mahogany)

African 

countries

Is engaged 

in 

commercial 

business 1

Presents a USDA-APHIS 

ePermits-issued Protected Plant 

Permit, and one of the following 

USFWS-issued CITES Appendix 

II re-export documents 2

, 3:

 Re-export Certificate 

designating source code W for 

specimens collected from the 

Wild, or source code A for 

Artificial Propagation 

(plantation grown)

 Other Certificate designating 

Pre-Convention specimens; 

and designating the date of 

acquisition or certification the 

specimens were acquired 

before the date first included 

in the CITES appendices

A phytosanitary certificate may be 

required to accompany the 

shipment; see notice above

GO to Step 5: Collect 

the Documents 

Associated with the 

Shipment on page 

3-73

Lacks the required CITES 

document

1. PLACE the 

shipment on HOLD

2. GO to Violations, 

Seizures, and 

Forfeitures

Lacks a Protected Plant Permit ALLOW the exporter 

to apply for a 

Protected Plant Permit

(see Confirm PPP 

Valid or Apply for a 

PPP)

Has an expired Protected Plant 

Permit 

Is not

engaged in 

commercial 

business

GO to page 3-39

NOTICE

In addition to any CITES Re-export documents listed as required in this manual, a Federal Phytosanitary 

Certificate may also be required (see the Export Program Manual (XPM) and PCIT). A Federal 

Phytosanitary Certificate for Re-export of CITES regulated timber species can only be issued at a 

designated port that is authorized to re-export CITES regulated logs and lumber (see Designated CITES 

Ports and Plant Inspection Stations CITES Staff on page 5-1). Issuance of a Federal Phytosanitary 

Certificate for Re-export is contingent upon compliance with all CITES requirements; issue only if all 

CITES requirements have been satisfied.
Re-exportation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 3-37

Afzelia spp.

(pod mahogany)

African 

countries

Is not

engaged in 

commercial 

business

Presents one of the following 

USFWS-issued CITES Appendix 

II re-export documents 5

, 6: 

 Re-export Certificate

designating source code W for 

specimens collected from the 

Wild, or source code A for 

Artificial Propagation 

(plantation grown)

 Other Certificate designating 

Pre-Convention specimens; 

and designating the date of 

acquisition or certification the 

specimens were acquired 

before the date first included 

in the CITES appendices

A phytosanitary certificate may be 

required to accompany the 

shipment; see notice on 

page 3-36

GO to Step 5: Collect 

the Documents 

Associated with the 

Shipment

Lacks the required CITES 

document

1. PLACE the 

shipment on HOLD

2. CONTACT a PPQ 

Botanist 7

 for 

assistance

Other than

African 

countries

Presents either one:

 Generic Certificate of Origin 

OR

 Other conclusive proof of 

origin

1. REVIEW the 

shipping 

documents to verify 

that the shipment is 

not from an African 

country

2. If the article is not

from an African 

country, then is not

regulated by 

CITES 

3. EXIT this manual

Lacks the required document 

listed in the cell above (does not 

have conclusive proof of origin)

1. PLACE the 

shipment on HOLD

2. CONTACT a PPQ 

Botanist 7

 for 

assistance 

Table 3-5 Determine Which Documents Are Needed for the Re-exportation of CITES Appendix II 

Regulated Timber Species (continued)

If the article comes 

from:

And country 

of origin is:

And the 

permittee: And the re-exporter: Then:
Re-exportation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

3-38 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

 Adansonia 

grandidieri

(giant boabab)

 Aniba 

rosaeodora 

(Brazilian 

rosewood) 

 Bulnesia 

sarmientoi 

(gaiacwood) 

 Caryocar 

costaricense

(ajillo)

Any country Is engaged 

in 

commercial 

business 4

Presents a USDA-APHIS 

ePermits-issued Protected Plant 

Permit, and one of the following 

USFWS-issued CITES Appendix 

II re-export documents 5

, 6:

 Re-export Certificate 

designating source code W for 

specimens collected from the 

Wild, or source code A for 

Artificial Propagation 

(plantation grown)

 Other Certificate designating 

Pre-Convention specimens; 

and designating the date of 

acquisition or certification the 

specimens were acquired 

before the date first included 

in the CITES appendices

A phytosanitary certificate may be 

required to accompany the 

shipment; see notice above

GO to Step 5: Collect 

the Documents 

Associated with the 

Shipment on page 

3-73

Lacks the required CITES 

document

1. PLACE the 

shipment on HOLD

2. GO to Violations, 

Seizures, and 

Forfeitures

Lacks a Protected Plant Permit ALLOW the exporter 

to apply for a 

Protected Plant Permit

(see Confirm PPP 

Valid or Apply for a 

PPP)

Has an expired Protected Plant 

Permit 

Is not

engaged in 

commercial 

business

GO to page 3-39

Table 3-5 Determine Which Documents Are Needed for the Re-exportation of CITES Appendix II 

Regulated Timber Species (continued)

If the article comes 

from:

And country 

of origin is:

And the 

permittee: And the re-exporter: Then:
Re-exportation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 3-39

 Adansonia 

grandidieri

(giant boabab)

 Aniba 

rosaeodora 

(Brazilian 

rosewood)

 Bulnesia 

sarmientoi 

(gaiacwood)

 Caryocar 

costaricense

(ajillo)

Any country Is not

engaged in 

commercial 

business

Presents one of the following 

USFWS-issued CITES Appendix 

II re-export documents 5

, 6: 

 Re-export Certificate

designating source code W for 

specimens collected from the 

Wild, or source code A for 

Artificial Propagation 

(plantation grown)

 Other Certificate designating 

Pre-Convention specimens; 

and designating the date of 

acquisition or certification the 

specimens were acquired 

before the date first included 

in the CITES appendices

A phytosanitary certificate may be 

required to accompany the 

shipment; see notice on 

page 3-36

GO to Step 5: Collect 

the Documents 

Associated with the 

Shipment

Lacks the required CITES 

document

1. PLACE the 

shipment on HOLD

3. GO to Violations, 

Seizures, and 

Forfeitures

Table 3-5 Determine Which Documents Are Needed for the Re-exportation of CITES Appendix II 

Regulated Timber Species (continued)

If the article comes 

from:

And country 

of origin is:

And the 

permittee: And the re-exporter: Then:
Re-exportation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

3-40 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

 Cedrela spp. Neotropics 9

(includes 

articles 

originating in 

the Neotropics 

that were 

re-exported 

from another 

country)

Is engaged 

in 

commercial 

business 4

Presents a USDA-APHIS 

ePermits-issued Protected Plant 

Permit and one of the following 

USFWS-issued CITES Appendix 

II re-export documents 5

, 3:

 Re-export Certificate 

designating source code W for 

specimens collected from the 

Wild, or source code A 

for Artificial Propagation 

(plantation grown) 

 Other Certificate designating 

Pre-Convention specimens; 

and designating the date of 

acquisition or certification the 

specimens were acquired 

before the date first included 

in the CITES appendices

A phytosanitary certificate may be 

required to accompany the 

shipment; see notice page 3-33

Step 5: Collect the 

Documents 

Associated with the 

Shipment on page 

3-73

Lacks the required CITES 

document

1. PLACE the 

shipment on HOLD

2. GO to page 4-1

Lacks a Protected Plant Permit 1. ALLOW the 

exporter to apply for 

a Protected Plant 

Permit 

2. GO to Confirm PPP 

Valid or Apply for a 

PPP on page 3-75)

Has an expired Protected Plant 

Permit 

Is not

engaged in 

commercial 

business

GO to page 3-41

Table 3-5 Determine Which Documents Are Needed for the Re-exportation of CITES Appendix II 

Regulated Timber Species (continued)

If the article comes 

from:

And country 

of origin is:

And the 

permittee: And the re-exporter: Then:
Re-exportation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 3-41

 Cedrela spp. Neotropics

(includes 

articles 

originating in 

the Neotropics 

that were

re-exported 

from another 

country)

Is not

engaged in 

commercial 

business 

Presents a one of the following 

USFWS-issued CITES Appendix 

II re-export documents 5

, 6:

 Re-export Certificate 

designating source code W for 

specimens collected from the 

Wild, or source code A 

for Artificial Propagation 

(plantation grown); OR

 Other Certificate designating 

Pre-Convention specimens; 

and designating the date of 

acquisition or certification the 

specimens were acquired 

before the date first included 

in the CITES appendices

A phytosanitary certificate may be 

required to accompany the 

shipment; see notice page 3-73

Step 5: Collect the 

Documents 

Associated with the 

Shipment on page 

3-73

Lacks the required CITES 

document

1. PLACE the 

shipment on HOLD

2. GO to Violations, 

Seizures, and 

Forfeitures on 

page 4-1

Other than the

Neotropics 

Presents either one:

 Generic Certificate of Origin 

OR

 Other conclusive proof of 

origin

1. REVIEW the 

shipping 

documents to verify 

that the shipment is 

not from the 

Neotropics 9

2. If the article is not

from the 

Neotropics, then is 

not regulated by 

CITES 

3. EXIT this manual

Lacks the required document 

listed in the cell above (does not 

have conclusive proof of origin)

1. PLACE the 

shipment on HOLD

2. CONTACT a PPQ 

Botanist 7

 for 

assistance 

Table 3-5 Determine Which Documents Are Needed for the Re-exportation of CITES Appendix II 

Regulated Timber Species (continued)

If the article comes 

from:

And country 

of origin is:

And the 

permittee: And the re-exporter: Then:
Re-exportation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

3-42 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

 Dalbergia spp. 

(rosewoods) 

except CITES

Appendix I 

Dalbergia nigra 

(Brazilian 

rosewood)

Mexico Is engaged 

in

commercial 

business 4

Presents a USDA-APHIS 

ePermits-issued Protected Plant 

Permit, and one of the following 

USFWS-issued CITES Appendix 

II re-export documents 5

, 6:

 Re-export Certificate 

designating source code W for 

specimens collected from the 

Wild, or source code A for 

Artificial Propagation 

(plantation grown)

 Other Certificate designating 

Pre-Convention specimens; 

and designating the date of 

acquisition or certification the 

specimens were acquired 

before the date first included 

in the CITES appendices

A phytosanitary certificate may be 

required to accompany the 

shipment; see notice page 3-36

GO to Step 5: Collect 

the Documents 

Associated with the 

Shipment

Lacks the required CITES 

document

1. PLACE the 

shipment on HOLD

2. GO to Violations, 

Seizures, and 

Forfeitures

Lacks a Protected Plant Permit ALLOW the exporter 

to apply for a 

Protected Plant Permit 

(see Confirm PPP 

Valid or Apply for a 

PPP)

Has an expired Protected Plant 

Permit 6

ALLOW the exporter 

to apply for a 

Protected Plant Permit 

(see Confirm PPP 

Valid or Apply for a 

PPP)

Is not

engaged in 

commercial 

business

GO to page 3-43

Table 3-5 Determine Which Documents Are Needed for the Re-exportation of CITES Appendix II 

Regulated Timber Species (continued)

If the article comes 

from:

And country 

of origin is:

And the 

permittee: And the re-exporter: Then:
Re-exportation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 3-43

 Dalbergia spp. 

(rosewoods) 

except CITES 

Appendix I 

Dalbergia nigra 

(Brazilian 

rosewood)

Mexico Is not

engaged in 

commercial 

business

Presents one of the following 

USFWS-issued CITES Appendix 

II re-export documents 2, 6

:

 Re-export Certificate 

designating source code W 

for specimens collected from 

the Wild, or 

source code A for Artificial 

Propagation (plantation 

grown)

 Other Certificate designating 

Pre-Convention specimens 

and designating the date of 

acquisition or certification the 

specimens were acquired 

before the date first included 

in the CITES appendices

A phytosanitary certificate may be 

required to accompany the 

shipment; see notice page 3-36

GO to Step 5: Collect 

the Documents Associated with the Shipment on page 3-73

Lacks the required CITES 

re-export document 

1. PLACE the 

shipment on HOLD

2. CONTACT a PPQ 

Botanist 7

 for 

assistance

Table 3-5 Determine Which Documents Are Needed for the Re-exportation of CITES Appendix II 

Regulated Timber Species (continued)

If the article comes 

from:

And country 

of origin is:

And the 

permittee: And the re-exporter: Then:
Re-exportation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

3-44 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

 Dalbergia spp. 

(rosewoods) 

except CITES

Appendix I 

Dalbergia nigra 

(Brazilian 

rosewood)

Other than 

Mexico

Is engaged 

in 

commercial 

business 4

Presents a USDA-APHIS 

ePermits-issued Protected Plant 

Permit, and one of the following 

USFWS-issued CITES Appendix 

II re-export documents 5

, 6: 

 Re-export Certificate 

designating source code W for 

specimens collected from the 

Wild, or source code A for 

Artificial Propagation 

(plantation grown)

 Other Certificate designating 

Pre-Convention specimens; 

and designating the date of 

acquisition or certification the 

specimens were acquired 

before the date first included 

in the CITES appendices

A phytosanitary certificate may be 

required to accompany the 

shipment; see notice page 3-36

GO to Step 5: Collect 

the Documents 

Associated with the 

Shipment

Lacks the required CITES 

document

1. PLACE the 

shipment on HOLD

2. GO to Violations, 

Seizures, and 

Forfeitures

Lacks a Protected Plant Permit ALLOW the exporter 

to apply for a 

Protected Plant Permit 

(see Confirm PPP 

Valid or Apply for a 

PPP)

Has an expired Protected Plant 

Permit 6

ALLOW the exporter 

to apply for a 

Protected Plant Permit 

(see Confirm PPP 

Valid or Apply for a 

PPP)

Is not

engaged in 

commercial 

business

GO to page 3-45

Table 3-5 Determine Which Documents Are Needed for the Re-exportation of CITES Appendix II 

Regulated Timber Species (continued)

If the article comes 

from:

And country 

of origin is:

And the 

permittee: And the re-exporter: Then:
Re-exportation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 3-45

 Dalbergia spp. 

(rosewoods) 

except CITES 

Appendix I 

Dalbergia nigra 

(Brazilian 

rosewood)

Other than 

Mexico

Is not

engaged in 

commercial 

business and 

the articles 

weigh more 

than 10 kg 

per shipment

Presents one of the following 

USFWS-issued CITES Appendix 

II re-export documents 2,

6

:

 Re-export Certificate 

designating source code W 

for specimens collected from 

the Wild, or 

source code A for Artificial 

Propagation (plantation 

grown)

 Other Certificate designating 

Pre-Convention specimens 

and designating the date of 

acquisition or certification the 

specimens were acquired 

before the date first included 

in the CITES appendices

A phytosanitary certificate may be 

required to accompany the 

shipment; see notice page 3-36

GO to Step 5: Collect 

the Documents Associated with the Shipment on page 3-73

Lacks the required CITES 

re-export document 

1. PLACE the 

shipment on HOLD

2. CONTACT a PPQ 

Botanist 7

 for 

assistance

Table 3-5 Determine Which Documents Are Needed for the Re-exportation of CITES Appendix II 

Regulated Timber Species (continued)

If the article comes 

from:

And country 

of origin is:

And the 

permittee: And the re-exporter: Then:
Re-exportation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

3-46 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

 Diospyros spp. 

(ebonies) 

Madagascar

(includes 

articles 

originating in 

Madagascar 

that were 

re-exported 

from another 

country)

Is engaged 

in 

commercial 

business 4

Presents a USDA-APHIS 

ePermits-issued Protected Plant 

Permit, and one of the following 

USFWS-issued CITES Appendix 

II re-export documents 5

,

6

:

 Re-export Certificate 

designating source code W for 

specimens collected from the 

Wild, or source code A for 

Artificial Propagation 

(plantation grown)

 Other Certificate designating 

Pre-Convention specimens; 

and designating the date of 

acquisition or certification the 

specimens were acquired 

before the date first included 

in the CITES appendices

A phytosanitary certificate may be 

required to accompany the 

shipment; see notice page 3-36

GO to Step 5: Collect 

the Documents 

Associated with the 

Shipment

Lacks the required CITES 

document

1. PLACE the 

shipment on HOLD

2. GO to Violations, 

Seizures, and 

Forfeitures

Lacks a Protected Plant Permit ALLOW the exporter 

to apply for a 

Protected Plant Permit 

(see Confirm PPP 

Valid or Apply for a 

PPP)

Has an expired Protected Plant 

Permit 6

ALLOW the exporter 

to apply for a 

Protected Plant Permit 

(see Confirm PPP 

Valid or Apply for a 

PPP)

Is not

engaged in 

commercial 

business

GO to page 3-45

Table 3-5 Determine Which Documents Are Needed for the Re-exportation of CITES Appendix II 

Regulated Timber Species (continued)

If the article comes 

from:

And country 

of origin is:

And the 

permittee: And the re-exporter: Then:
Re-exportation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 3-47

 Diospyros spp. 

(ebonies)

Madagascar

(includes 

populations of 

Madagascar 

that were reexported from 

another 

country)

Is not

engaged in 

commercial 

business

Presents one of the following 

USFWS-issued CITES Appendix 

II re-export documents 2, 6

:

 Re-export Certificate 

designating source code W 

for specimens collected from 

the Wild, or 

source code A for Artificial 

Propagation (plantation 

grown)

 Other Certificate designating 

Pre-Convention specimens 

and designating the date of 

acquisition or certification the 

specimens were acquired 

before the date first included 

in the CITES appendices

A phytosanitary certificate may be 

required to accompany the 

shipment; see notice page 3-36

GO to Step 5: Collect 

the Documents Associated with the Shipment on page 3-73

Lacks the required CITES 

re-export document 

1. PLACE the 

shipment on HOLD

2. CONTACT a PPQ 

Botanist 7

 for 

assistance

Table 3-5 Determine Which Documents Are Needed for the Re-exportation of CITES Appendix II 

Regulated Timber Species (continued)

If the article comes 

from:

And country 

of origin is:

And the 

permittee: And the re-exporter: Then:
Re-exportation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

3-48 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

 Gonystylus

spp.(ramin)

 Guaiacum spp. 

(lignum vitae)

 Guibourtia 

demeusei (red 

bubinga)

 Guibourtia 

pellegriniana 

(rose bubinga)

 Guibourtia 

tessmannii 

(rose bubinga)

Any country Is engaged 

in 

commercial 

business 1

Presents a USDA-APHIS 

ePermits-issued Protected Plant 

Permit, and one of the following 

USFWS-issued CITES Appendix 

II re-export documents 5

, 6:

 Re-export Certificate 

designating source code W f

or specimens collected from 

the Wild, or source code A

for Artificial Propagation 

(plantation grown)

 Other Certificate designating 

Pre-Convention specimens; 

and designating the date of 

acquisition or certification the 

specimens were acquired 

before the date first included 

in the CITES appendices

A phytosanitary certificate may be 

required to accompany the 

shipment; see notice page 3-36

GO to Step 5: Collect 

the Documents 

Associated with the 

Shipment on page 

3-73

Lacks the required CITES 

document

1. PLACE the 

shipment on HOLD

2. GO to Violations, 

Seizures, and 

Forfeitures on page 

4-1

Lacks a Protected Plant Permit ALLOW the exporter 

to apply for a 

Protected Plant Permit

(see Confirm PPP 

Valid or Apply for a 

PPP on page 3-75)

Has an expired Protected Plant 

Permit 6

Is not

engaged in 

commercial 

business

GO to page 3-49

Table 3-5 Determine Which Documents Are Needed for the Re-exportation of CITES Appendix II 

Regulated Timber Species (continued)

If the article comes 

from:

And country 

of origin is:

And the 

permittee: And the re-exporter: Then:
Re-exportation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 3-49

 Gonystylus

spp.(ramin)

 Guaiacum spp. 

(lignum vitae)

 Guibourtia 

demeusei (red 

bubinga)

 Guibourtia 

pellegriniana 

(rose bubinga)

 Guibourtia 

tessmannii 

(rose bubinga)

Any country Is not

engaged in 

commercial 

business

Presents one of the following 

USFWS-issued CITE S Appendix 

II re-export documents 5

, 6: 

 Re-export Certificate 

designating source code W for 

specimens collected from the 

Wild, or source code A for 

Artificial Propagation 

(plantation grown)

 Other Certificate designating 

Pre-Convention specimens; 

and designating the date of 

acquisition or certification the 

specimens were acquired 

before the date first included 

in the CITES appendices

A phytosanitary certificate may be 

required to accompany the 

shipment; see notice page 3-36

GO to Step 5: Collect 

the Documents 

Associated with the 

Shipment on page 

3-73

Lacks the required CITES 

document

1. PLACE the 

shipment on HOLD

2. CONTACT a PPQ 

Botanist 7 for 

assistance

Table 3-5 Determine Which Documents Are Needed for the Re-exportation of CITES Appendix II 

Regulated Timber Species (continued)

If the article comes 

from:

And country 

of origin is:

And the 

permittee: And the re-exporter: Then:
Re-exportation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

3-50 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

Khaya spp. (African 

mahogany)

African 

countries

Is engaged 

in 

commercial 

business 1

Presents a USDA-APHIS 

ePermits-issued Protected Plant 

Permit, and one of the following 

USFWS-issued CITES Appendix 

II re-export documents 5

, 6:

 Re-export Certificate 

designating source code W f

or specimens collected from 

the Wild, or source code A

for Artificial Propagation 

(plantation grown)

 Other Certificate designating 

Pre-Convention specimens; 

and designating the date of 

acquisition or certification the 

specimens were acquired 

before the date first included 

in the CITES appendices

A phytosanitary certificate may be 

required to accompany the 

shipment; see notice page 3-36

GO to Step 5: Collect 

the Documents 

Associated with the 

Shipment on page 

3-73

Lacks the required CITES 

document

1. PLACE the 

shipment on HOLD

2. GO to Violations, 

Seizures, and 

Forfeitures on page 

4-1

Lacks a Protected Plant Permit ALLOW the exporter 

to apply for a 

Protected Plant Permit

(see Confirm PPP 

Valid or Apply for a 

PPP on page 3-75)

Has an expired Protected Plant 

Permit 6

Is not

engaged in 

commercial 

business

GO to page 3-49

Table 3-5 Determine Which Documents Are Needed for the Re-exportation of CITES Appendix II 

Regulated Timber Species (continued)

If the article comes 

from:

And country 

of origin is:

And the 

permittee: And the re-exporter: Then:
Re-exportation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 3-51

Khaya spp. (African 

mahogany)

African 

countries

Is not

engaged in 

commercial 

business

Presents one of the following 

USFWS-issued CITE S Appendix 

II re-export documents 5

, 6: 

 Re-export Certificate 

designating source code W for 

specimens collected from the 

Wild, or source code A for 

Artificial Propagation 

(plantation grown)

 Other Certificate designating 

Pre-Convention specimens; 

and designating the date of 

acquisition or certification the 

specimens were acquired 

before the date first included 

in the CITES appendices

A phytosanitary certificate may be 

required to accompany the 

shipment; see notice page 3-36

GO to Step 5: Collect 

the Documents 

Associated with the 

Shipment on page 

3-73

Lacks the required CITES 

document

1. PLACE the 

shipment on HOLD

2. CONTACT a PPQ 

Botanist 7 for 

assistance

Other than

African 

countries

Presents either one:

 Generic Certificate of Origin 

OR

 Other conclusive proof of 

origin

1. REVIEW the 

shipping 

documents to verify 

that the shipment is 

not from an African 

country

2. If the article is not

from an African 

country, then is not

regulated by 

CITES 

3. EXIT this manual

Lacks the required document 

listed in the cell above (does not 

have conclusive proof of origin)

1. PLACE the 

shipment on HOLD

2. CONTACT a PPQ 

Botanist 7

 for 

assistance 

Table 3-5 Determine Which Documents Are Needed for the Re-exportation of CITES Appendix II 

Regulated Timber Species (continued)

If the article comes 

from:

And country 

of origin is:

And the 

permittee: And the re-exporter: Then:
Re-exportation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

3-52 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

Oreomunnea 

pterocarpa

(gavilan)

Any country Is engaged 

in 

commercial 

business 1

Presents a USDA-APHIS 

ePermits-issued Protected Plant 

Permit, and one of the following 

USFWS-issued CITES Appendix 

II re-export documents 5

, 6:

 Re-export Certificate 

designating source code W f

or specimens collected from 

the Wild, or source code A

for Artificial Propagation 

(plantation grown)

 Other Certificate designating 

Pre-Convention specimens; 

and designating the date of 

acquisition or certification the 

specimens were acquired 

before the date first included 

in the CITES appendices

A phytosanitary certificate may be 

required to accompany the 

shipment; see notice page 3-36

GO to Step 5: Collect 

the Documents 

Associated with the 

Shipment on page 

3-73

Lacks the required CITES 

document

1. PLACE the 

shipment on HOLD

2. GO to Violations, 

Seizures, and 

Forfeitures on page 

4-1

Lacks a Protected Plant Permit ALLOW the exporter 

to apply for a 

Protected Plant Permit

(see Confirm PPP 

Valid or Apply for a 

PPP on page 3-75)

Has an expired Protected Plant 

Permit 6

Is not

engaged in 

commercial 

business

GO to page 3-49

Table 3-5 Determine Which Documents Are Needed for the Re-exportation of CITES Appendix II 

Regulated Timber Species (continued)

If the article comes 

from:

And country 

of origin is:

And the 

permittee: And the re-exporter: Then:
Re-exportation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 3-53

Oreomunnea 

pterocarpa

(gavilan)

Any country Is not

engaged in 

commercial 

business

Presents one of the following 

USFWS-issued CITE S Appendix 

II re-export documents 5

, 6: 

 Re-export Certificate 

designating source code W for 

specimens collected from the 

Wild, or source code A for 

Artificial Propagation 

(plantation grown)

 Other Certificate designating 

Pre-Convention specimens; 

and designating the date of 

acquisition or certification the 

specimens were acquired 

before the date first included 

in the CITES appendices

A phytosanitary certificate may be 

required to accompany the 

shipment; see notice page 3-36

GO to Step 5: Collect 

the Documents 

Associated with the 

Shipment on page 

3-73

Lacks the required CITES 

document

1. PLACE the 

shipment on HOLD

2. CONTACT a PPQ 

Botanist 7 for 

assistance

Table 3-5 Determine Which Documents Are Needed for the Re-exportation of CITES Appendix II 

Regulated Timber Species (continued)

If the article comes 

from:

And country 

of origin is:

And the 

permittee: And the re-exporter: Then:
Re-exportation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

3-54 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

 Osyris lanceolata

(African 

sandalwood) 

Burundi

Ethiopia

Kenya

Rwanda

Uganda

United 

Republic of 

Tanzania 

(includes 

articles 

originating in 

Burundi, 

Ethiopia, 

Kenya, 

Rwanda, 

Uganda, or 

United 

Republic of 

Tanzania that 

were 

re-exported 

from another 

country)

Is engaged 

in 

commercial 

business 4

Presents a USDA-APHIS 

ePermits-issued Protected Plant 

Permit, and one of the following 

USFWS-issued CITES Appendix 

II re-export documents 5

, 6:

 Re-export Certificate 

designating source code W for 

specimens collected from the 

Wild, or source code A for 

Artificial Propagation 

(plantation grown)

 Other Certificate designating 

Pre-Convention specimens; 

and designating the date of 

acquisition or certification the 

specimens were acquired 

before the date first included 

in the CITES appendices

A phytosanitary certificate may be 

required to accompany the 

shipment; see notice page 3-36

GO to Step 5: Collect 

the Documents 

Associated with the 

Shipment on page 

3-73

Lacks the required CITES 

document

1. PLACE the 

shipment on HOLD

2. GO to Violations, 

Seizures, and 

Forfeitures on page 

4-1

Lacks a Protected Plant Permit ALLOW the exporter 

to apply for a 

Protected Plant Permit

(see Confirm PPP 

Valid or Apply for a 

PPP on page 3-75)

Has an expired Protected Plant 

Permit 6

ALLOW the exporter 

to apply for a 

Protected Plant Permit

(see Confirm PPP 

Valid or Apply for a 

PPP)

Is not

engaged in 

commercial 

business

GO to page 3-55

Table 3-5 Determine Which Documents Are Needed for the Re-exportation of CITES Appendix II 

Regulated Timber Species (continued)

If the article comes 

from:

And country 

of origin is:

And the 

permittee: And the re-exporter: Then:
Re-exportation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 3-55

 Osyris lanceolata

(African 

sandalwood) 

Burundi 

Ethiopia 

Kenya 

Rwanda 

Uganda 

United 

Republic of 

Tanzania 

(includes 

articles 

originating in 

Burundi, 

Ethiopia, 

Kenya, 

Rwanda, 

Uganda, or 

United 

Republic of 

Tanzania that 

were 

re-exported 

from another 

country)

Is not

engaged in 

commercial 

business

Presents one of the following 

USFWS-issued CITES Appendix 

II re-export documents 2, 6: 

 Re-export Certificate 

designating source code W 

for specimens collected from 

the Wild, or source code A 

for Artificial Propagation 

(plantation grown)

 Other Certificate designating 

Pre-Convention specimens; 

and designating the date of 

acquisition or certification the 

specimens were acquired 

before the date first included 

in the CITES appendices

A phytosanitary certificate may be 

required to accompany the 

shipment; see notice page 3-36

GO to Step 5: Collect 

the Documents 

Associated with the 

Shipment on page 

3-73

Lacks the required CITES 

document

1. PLACE the 

shipment on HOLD

2. CONTACT a PPQ 

Botanist 7 for 

assistance

Other than 

listed above

1. REVIEW the 

shipping 

documents to 

VERIFY the 

country of origin 

is other than 

Burundi, Ethiopia, 

Kenya, Rwanda, 

Uganda, United 

Republic of 

Tanzania

2. The article is not

regulated by 

CITES; EXIT this 

manual

Table 3-5 Determine Which Documents Are Needed for the Re-exportation of CITES Appendix II 

Regulated Timber Species (continued)

If the article comes 

from:

And country 

of origin is:

And the 

permittee: And the re-exporter: Then:
Re-exportation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

3-56 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

 Paubrasilia 

echinata

(Brazilwood)

 Pericopsis elata

(afrormosia)

 Platymiscium 

pleiostachyum

(cristobal 

graradillo)

 Prunus 

africana (African 

rosewood) 

Any country Is engaged 

in

commercial 

business 4

Presents a USDA-APHIS 

ePermits-issued Protected Plant 

Permit, and one of the following 

USFWS-issued CITES Appendix 

II re-export documents 5

, 6:

 Re-export Certificate

designating source code W for 

specimens collected from th

e Wild, or source code A 

for Artificial Propagation 

(plantation grown)

 Other Certificate designating 

Pre-Convention specimens; 

and designating the date of 

acquisition or certification the 

specimens were acquired 

before the date first included 

in the CITES appendices

A phytosanitary certificate may be 

required to accompany the 

shipment; see notice page 3-36

GO to Step 5: Collect 

the Documents 

Associated with the 

Shipment on page 

3-73

Lacks the required CITES 

document

1. PLACE the 

shipment on HOLD

2. GO to Violations, 

Seizures, and 

Forfeitures on page 

4-1

Lacks a Protected Plant Permit ALLOW the exporter 

to apply for a 

Protected Plant Permit

(see Confirm PPP 

Valid or Apply for a 

PPP on page 3-75)

Has an expired Protected Plant 

Permit 6

ALLOW the exporter 

to apply for a 

Protected Plant Permit

(see Confirm PPP 

Valid or Apply for a 

PPP on page 3-75)

Is not 

engaged in 

commercial 

business

GO to page 3-61

Table 3-5 Determine Which Documents Are Needed for the Re-exportation of CITES Appendix II 

Regulated Timber Species (continued)

If the article comes 

from:

And country 

of origin is:

And the 

permittee: And the re-exporter: Then:
Re-exportation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 3-57

 Paubrasilia 

echinata

(Brazilwood)

 Pericopsis elata

(afrormosia)

 Platymiscium 

pleiostachyum

(cristobal 

graradillo)

 Prunus 

africana (African 

rosewood) 

Any country Is not

engaged in 

commercial 

business

Presents one of the following 

USFWS-issued CITES Appendix 

II re-export documents 2

, 6:

 Re-export Certificate 

designating source code W for 

specimens collected from the 

Wild, or source code A for 

Artificial Propagation 

(plantation grown)

 Other Certificate designating 

Pre-Convention specimens; 

and designating the date of 

acquisition or certification the 

specimens were acquired 

before the date first included 

in the CITES appendices

A phytosanitary certificate may be 

required to accompany the 

shipment; see notice page 3-36

GO to Step 5: Collect 

the Documents 

Associated with the 

Shipment on page 

3-73

Lacks the required CITES 

document

1. PLACE the 

shipment on HOLD

2. CONTACT a PPQ 

Botanist 7 for 

assistance

Table 3-5 Determine Which Documents Are Needed for the Re-exportation of CITES Appendix II 

Regulated Timber Species (continued)

If the article comes 

from:

And country 

of origin is:

And the 

permittee: And the re-exporter: Then:
Re-exportation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

3-58 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

Pterocarpus spp.

(African rosewood, 

kosso)

except

Pterocarpus 

santalinus (red 

sandalwood, 

redsanders)

African 

countries

Is engaged 

in 

commercial 

business 4

Presents a USDA-APHIS 

ePermits-issued Protected Plant 

Permit, and one of the following 

USFWS-issued CITES Appendix 

II re-export documents 5

, 6:

 Re-export Certificate

designating source code W for 

specimens collected from th

e Wild, or source code A 

for Artificial Propagation 

(plantation grown)

 Other Certificate designating 

Pre-Convention specimens; 

and designating the date of 

acquisition or certification the 

specimens were acquired 

before the date first included 

in the CITES appendices

A phytosanitary certificate may be 

required to accompany the 

shipment; see notice page 3-36

GO to Step 5: Collect 

the Documents 

Associated with the 

Shipment on page 

3-73

Lacks the required CITES 

document

1. PLACE the 

shipment on HOLD

2. GO to Violations, 

Seizures, and 

Forfeitures on page 

4-1

Lacks a Protected Plant Permit ALLOW the exporter 

to apply for a 

Protected Plant Permit

(see Confirm PPP 

Valid or Apply for a 

PPP on page 3-75)

Has an expired Protected Plant 

Permit 6

ALLOW the exporter 

to apply for a 

Protected Plant Permit

(see Confirm PPP 

Valid or Apply for a 

PPP on page 3-75)

Is not 

engaged in 

commercial 

business

GO to page 3-61

Table 3-5 Determine Which Documents Are Needed for the Re-exportation of CITES Appendix II 

Regulated Timber Species (continued)

If the article comes 

from:

And country 

of origin is:

And the 

permittee: And the re-exporter: Then:
Re-exportation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 3-59

Pterocarpus spp.

(African rosewood, 

kosso)

except

Pterocarpus 

santalinus (red 

sandalwood, 

redsanders)

African 

countries

Is not

engaged in 

commercial 

business

Presents one of the following 

USFWS-issued CITES Appendix 

II re-export documents 2

, 6:

 Re-export Certificate 

designating source code W for 

specimens collected from the 

Wild, or source code A for 

Artificial Propagation 

(plantation grown)

 Other Certificate designating 

Pre-Convention specimens; 

and designating the date of 

acquisition or certification the 

specimens were acquired 

before the date first included 

in the CITES appendices

A phytosanitary certificate may be 

required to accompany the 

shipment; see notice page 3-36

GO to Step 5: Collect 

the Documents 

Associated with the 

Shipment on page 

3-73

Lacks the required CITES 

document

1. PLACE the 

shipment on HOLD

2. CONTACT a PPQ 

Botanist 7 for 

assistance

Other than

African 

countries

Presents either one:

 Generic Certificate of Origin 

OR

 Other conclusive proof of 

origin

1. REVIEW the 

shipping 

documents to verify 

that the shipment is 

not from an African 

country

2. If the article is not

from an African 

country, then is not

regulated by 

CITES 

3. EXIT this manual

Lacks the required document 

listed in the cell above (does not 

have conclusive proof of origin)

1. PLACE the 

shipment on HOLD

2. CONTACT a PPQ 

Botanist 7

 for 

assistance 

Table 3-5 Determine Which Documents Are Needed for the Re-exportation of CITES Appendix II 

Regulated Timber Species (continued)

If the article comes 

from:

And country 

of origin is:

And the 

permittee: And the re-exporter: Then:
Re-exportation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

3-60 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

 Pterocarpus 

santalinus

(red sandalwood, 

redsanders)

 Senna 

meridionalis

(taraby) 

 Swietenia humilis 

(Pacific Coast 

Mahogany)

Any country Is engaged 

in

commercial 

business 4

Presents a USDA-APHIS 

ePermits-issued Protected Plant 

Permit, and one of the following 

USFWS-issued CITES Appendix 

II re-export documents 5

, 6:

 Re-export Certificate

designating source code W for 

specimens collected from th

e Wild, or source code A 

for Artificial Propagation 

(plantation grown)

 Other Certificate designating 

Pre-Convention specimens; 

and designating the date of 

acquisition or certification the 

specimens were acquired 

before the date first included 

in the CITES appendices

A phytosanitary certificate may be 

required to accompany the 

shipment; see notice page 3-36

GO to Step 5: Collect 

the Documents 

Associated with the 

Shipment on page 

3-73

Lacks the required CITES 

document

1. PLACE the 

shipment on HOLD

2. GO to Violations, 

Seizures, and 

Forfeitures on page 

4-1

Lacks a Protected Plant Permit ALLOW the exporter 

to apply for a 

Protected Plant Permit

(see Confirm PPP 

Valid or Apply for a 

PPP on page 3-75)

Has an expired Protected Plant 

Permit 6

ALLOW the exporter 

to apply for a 

Protected Plant Permit

(see Confirm PPP 

Valid or Apply for a 

PPP on page 3-75)

Is not 

engaged in 

commercial 

business

GO to page 3-61

Table 3-5 Determine Which Documents Are Needed for the Re-exportation of CITES Appendix II 

Regulated Timber Species (continued)

If the article comes 

from:

And country 

of origin is:

And the 

permittee: And the re-exporter: Then:
Re-exportation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 3-61

 Pterocarpus 

santalinus

(red sandalwood, 

redsanders)

 Senna 

meridionalis

(taraby) 

 Swietenia humilis 

(Pacific Coast 

Mahogany)

Any country Is not

engaged in 

commercial 

business

Presents one of the following 

USFWS-issued CITES Appendix 

II re-export documents 2

, 6:

 Re-export Certificate 

designating source code W for 

specimens collected from the 

Wild, or source code A for 

Artificial Propagation 

(plantation grown)

 Other Certificate designating 

Pre-Convention specimens; 

and designating the date of 

acquisition or certification the 

specimens were acquired 

before the date first included 

in the CITES appendices

A phytosanitary certificate may be 

required to accompany the 

shipment; see notice page 3-36

GO to Step 5: Collect 

the Documents 

Associated with the 

Shipment on page 

3-73

Lacks the required CITES 

document

1. PLACE the 

shipment on HOLD

2. CONTACT a PPQ 

Botanist 7 for 

assistance

Table 3-5 Determine Which Documents Are Needed for the Re-exportation of CITES Appendix II 

Regulated Timber Species (continued)

If the article comes 

from:

And country 

of origin is:

And the 

permittee: And the re-exporter: Then:
Re-exportation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

3-62 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

 Swietenia 

macrophylla 8

(bigleaf 

mahogany)

Neotropics 9

(includes 

articles 

originating in 

the Neotropics 

that were reexported from 

another 

country)

Is engaged 

in 

commercial 

business 4

Presents a USDA-APHIS 

ePermits-issued Protected Plant 

Permit, and one of the following 

USFWS-issued CITES Appendix 

II re-export documents 5

, 6:

 Re-export Certificate 

designating source code W for 

specimens collected from the 

Wild, or source code A for 

Artificial Propagation 

(plantation grown)

 Other Certificate designating 

Pre-Convention specimens; 

and designating the date of 

acquisition or certification the 

specimens were acquired 

before the date first included 

in the CITES appendices

A phytosanitary certificate may be 

required to accompany the 

shipment; see notice on 

page 3-36

GO to Step 5: Collect 

the Documents 

Associated with the 

Shipment on page 

3-73

Lacks the required CITES 

document

1. PLACE the 

shipment on HOLD

2. GO to Violations, 

Seizures, and 

Forfeitures on page 

4-1

Lacks a Protected Plant Permit ALLOW the exporter 

to apply for a 

Protected Plant Permit

(see Confirm PPP 

Valid or Apply for a 

PPP on page 3-75)

Has an expired Protected Plant 

Permit 6

ALLOW the exporter 

to apply for a 

Protected Plant Permit

(see Confirm PPP 

Valid or Apply for a 

PPP)

Is not

engaged in 

commercial 

business

GO to page 3-63

Table 3-5 Determine Which Documents Are Needed for the Re-exportation of CITES Appendix II 

Regulated Timber Species (continued)

If the article comes 

from:

And country 

of origin is:

And the 

permittee: And the re-exporter: Then:
Re-exportation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 3-63

 Swietenia 

macrophylla 8

(bigleaf 

mahogany) 

Neotropics 9

(includes 

articles 

originating in 

the Neotropics 

that were 

re-exported 

from another 

country)

Is not

engaged in 

commercial 

business

Presents one of the following 

USFWS-issued CITES Appendix 

II re-export documents 2, 6: 

 Re-export Certificate 

designating source code W for 

specimens collected from the 

Wild, or source code A for 

Artificial Propagation 

(plantation grown); OR

 Other Certificate designating 

Pre-Convention specimens; 

and designating the date of 

acquisition or certification the 

specimens were acquired 

before the date first included 

in the CITES appendices

A phytosanitary certificate may be 

required to accompany the 

shipment; see notice page 3-36

GO to Step 5: Collect 

the Documents 

Associated with the 

Shipment on page 

3-73

Lacks the required CITES 

document

1. PLACE the 

shipment on HOLD

2. GO to Violations, 

Seizures, and 

Forfeitures on page 

4-1

Other than the

Neotropics 9

Presents either one: 

 Generic Certificate of Origin 

or

 Other conclusive proof of 

origin

1. REVIEW the 

shipping documents 

to verify that the 

shipment is not

from the Neotropics 

9

2. If the article is not

from the 

Neotropics, then 

the article is not

regulated by CITES

3. EXIT this manual

Lacks the required document 

listed in the cell above (does not

have conclusive proof of origin)

4. PLACE the 

shipment o HOLD 

5. CONTACT a PPQ 

Botanist 7

 for 

assistance

Table 3-5 Determine Which Documents Are Needed for the Re-exportation of CITES Appendix II 

Regulated Timber Species (continued)

If the article comes 

from:

And country 

of origin is:

And the 

permittee: And the re-exporter: Then:
Re-exportation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

3-64 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

 Swietenia 

mahogani 

(Caribbean 

mahogany)

Any country Is engaged 

in 

commercial 

business 4

Presents a USDA-APHIS 

ePermits-issued Protected Plant 

Permit, and one of the following 

USFWS-issued CITES Appendix 

II re-export documents 2, 6:

 Re-export Certificate 

designating source code W for 

specimens collected from the 

Wild, or source code A for 

Artificial Propagation 

(plantation grown)

 Other Certificate designating 

Pre-Convention specimens; 

and designating the date of 

acquisition or certification that 

the specimens were acquired 

before the date first included 

in the CITES appendices

A phytosanitary certificate may be 

required to accompany the 

shipment; see notice page 3-36

GO to Step 5: Collect 

the Documents 

Associated with the 

Shipment on page 

3-73

Lacks the required CITES 

document

1. PLACE the 

shipment on HOLD

2. GO to Violations, 

Seizures, and 

Forfeitures on page 

4-1

Lacks a Protected Plant Permit ALLOW the exporter 

to apply for a 

Protected Plant Permit 

(see Confirm PPP 

Valid or Apply for a 

PPP on page 3-75)

Has an expired Protected Plant 

Permit 6

ALLOW the exporter 

to apply for a 

Protected Plant Permit 

(see Confirm PPP 

Valid or Apply for a 

PPP on page 3-75)

Is not

engaged in 

commercial 

business

GO to page 3-64

Table 3-5 Determine Which Documents Are Needed for the Re-exportation of CITES Appendix II 

Regulated Timber Species (continued)

If the article comes 

from:

And country 

of origin is:

And the 

permittee: And the re-exporter: Then:
Re-exportation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 3-65

 Swietenia 

mahogani 

(Caribbean 

mahogany)

Any country Is not

engaged in 

commercial 

business

Presents one of the following 

USFWS-issued CITES Appendix 

II Re-export documents 2, 6:

 Re-export Certificate 

designating source code W for 

specimens collected from the 

Wild, or source code A for 

Artificial Propagation 

(plantation grown); OR

 Other Certificate designating 

Pre-Convention specimens; 

and designating the date of 

acquisition or certification the 

specimens were acquired 

before the date first included 

in the CITES appendices

A phytosanitary certificate may be 

required to accompany the 

shipment; see notice page 3-36

GO to Step 5: Collect 

the Documents 

Associated with the 

Shipment on page 

3-73

Lacks the required CITES 

document

1. PLACE the 

shipment on HOLD

2. GO to Violations, 

Seizures, and 

Forfeitures on page 

4-1

Table 3-5 Determine Which Documents Are Needed for the Re-exportation of CITES Appendix II 

Regulated Timber Species (continued)

If the article comes 

from:

And country 

of origin is:

And the 

permittee: And the re-exporter: Then:
Re-exportation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

3-66 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

 Widdringtonia 

whytei

(Mulanje cedar)

Any country Is engaged 

in 

commercial 

business 4

Presents a USDA-APHIS 

ePermits-issued Protected Plant 

Permit, and one of the following 

USFWS-issued CITES Appendix 

II re-export documents 5

, 6:

 Re-export Certificate

designating source code W for 

specimens collected from th

e Wild, or source code A 

for Artificial Propagation 

(plantation grown)

 Other Certificate designating 

Pre-Convention specimens; 

and designating the date of 

acquisition or certification the 

specimens were acquired 

before the date first included 

in the CITES appendices

A phytosanitary certificate may be 

required to accompany the 

shipment; see notice page 3-36

GO to Step 5: Collect 

the Documents 

Associated with the 

Shipment on page 

3-73

Lacks the required CITES 

document

1. PLACE the 

shipment on HOLD

2. GO to Violations, 

Seizures, and 

Forfeitures on page 

4-1

Lacks a Protected Plant Permit ALLOW the exporter 

to apply for a 

Protected Plant Permit

(see Confirm PPP 

Valid or Apply for a 

PPP on page 3-75)

Has an expired Protected Plant 

Permit 6

ALLOW the exporter 

to apply for a 

Protected Plant Permit

(see Confirm PPP 

Valid or Apply for a 

PPP on page 3-75)

Is not

engaged in 

commercial 

business

GO to page 3-29

Table 3-5 Determine Which Documents Are Needed for the Re-exportation of CITES Appendix II 

Regulated Timber Species (continued)

If the article comes 

from:

And country 

of origin is:

And the 

permittee: And the re-exporter: Then:
Re-exportation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 3-67

 Widdringtonia 

whytei

(Mulanje cedar)

Any country Is not

engaged in 

commercial 

business

Presents one of the following 

CITES-issued original Appendix 

II documents 5

, 6:

 Export Permit or 

Re-export Certificate 

designating source code W for 

specimens collected from the 

wild; or source code A for 

artificial propagation 

(plantation grown)

 Other Certificate designating 

Pre-Convention specimens; 

and designating the date of 

acquisition or certification the 

specimens were acquired 

before the date first included 

in the CITES appendices 

Other permits may be required 

under 7 CFR 319.40; see notice 

on page 3-36

GO to Step 5: Collect 

the Documents 

Associated with the 

Shipment on page 

3-73

Lacks the required CITES 

document

1. PLACE the 

shipment on HOLD

2. GO to Violations, 

Seizures, and 

Forfeitures on page 

4-1

1 Engaged in commercial business is defined as trade for the purpose of selling, bartering, collecting, or otherwise as a 

livelihood for gain or profit.

2 If Block 5, Special Conditions, of the USFWS-issued CITES Certificate so states, then a CBP/PPQ validated copy of the 

CITES Export Permit or Certificate issued by the Management Authority in the country of origin is required to be attached 

(to the USFWS-issued CITES Certificate).

3 The validity of a CITES document expires at midnight (local time at the place of presentation) on the date indicated on the 

document. All activities, including but not limited to transport and presentation for import must be completed before that 

time.

4 Engaged in commercial business is defined as trade for the purpose of selling, bartering, collecting, or otherwise as a 

livelihood for gain or profit.

5 If Block 5, Special Conditions, of the USFWS-issued CITES Certificate so states, then a CBP/PPQ validated copy of the 

CITES Export Permit or Certificate issued by the Management Authority in the country of origin is required to be attached 

(to the USFWS-issued CITES Certificate).

6 The validity of a CITES document expires at midnight (local time at the place of presentation) on the date indicated on the 

document. All activities, including but not limited to transport and presentation for import must be completed before that 

time.

Table 3-5 Determine Which Documents Are Needed for the Re-exportation of CITES Appendix II 

Regulated Timber Species (continued)

If the article comes 

from:

And country 

of origin is:

And the 

permittee: And the re-exporter: Then:
Re-exportation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

3-68 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

7 PPQ to locate the name, phone, and address of the PPQ Botanist that services your port, see the List of PPQ Identifiers 

and National Specialists. 

8 Listed by the Convention to include Swietenia macrophylla (bigleaf mahogany) populations of the Neotropics only. 

Swietenia macrophylla populations cut in any other country are not regulated by CITES. 

9 The Neotropics includes the Caribbean, Central America, Mexico, and South America. 
Re-exportation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 3-69

Required Documents for Re-exportation of Appendix III Timber Species

The re-exportation of CITES Appendix III timber species is permitted when 

presented with the appropriate documentation for the following categories of 

trade:

Articles derived from trees cut in the wild 

(when presented with a USFWS-issued CITES Re-export Certificate)

Articles derived from plantation-grown trees 

(when presented with a USFWS-issued CITES Re-export Certificate

designating source code A for Artificial Propagation)

Articles acquired prior to the date the CITES Convention listed the 

species

(when presented with a USFWS-issued CITES Other Certificate

designating Pre-Convention specimens; and designating the date of 

acquisition or certification the specimens were acquired before being the 

date first included in the CITES appendices)

See Table 3-6 to determine which documents are required for the 

re-exportation of CITES Appendix III timber species.
Re-exportation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

3-70 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

Table 3-6 Determine Documents Needed for the Re-exportation of CITES Appendix III Regulated Timber 

Species 

If the timber 

species is:

And the country 

of origin is:

And the 

permittee: And the exporter: Then:

NOTICE

In addition to any CITES Re-export documents listed as required in this manual, a Federal Phytosanitary 

Certificate may also be required. See the Export Program Manual (XPM) and PCIT. A Federal 

Phytosanitary Certificate for Re-export of CITES protected timber species can only be issued at a 

designated port that is authorized to export CITES regulated logs and lumber and is contingent upon 

compliance with all CITES requirements. Issue a Federal Phytosanitary Certificate only if all CITES entry 

requirements have been satisfied.
Re-exportation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 3-71

 Dipteryx 

panamensis 

(almendro)

 Fraxinus 

mandshurica

(manchurian 

ash)

 Magnolia liliifera

var. obovata

(magnolia)

 Pinus koraiensis 

(Korean pine)

 Podocarpus 

neriifolius 

(podocarp) 

 Quercus 

mongolica

(mongolian oak)

 Tetracentron 

sinense 

(Tetracentron)

Any country Is engaged 

in 

commercial 

business 1

Presents a USDA-APHIS 

ePermits-issued Protected 

Plant Permit and one of the 

following USFWS-issued 

CITES Appendix III re-export 

documents 2

:

 Re-export Certificate 

designating source code W 

for specimens collected 

from the Wild, or source 

code A for Artificial 

Propagation (plantation 

grown)

 Other Certificate 

designating 

Pre-Convention 

specimens; and 

designating the date of 

acquisition or certification 

the specimens were 

acquired before the date 

first included in the CITES 

appendices

A phytosanitary certificate may 

be required to accompany the 

shipment; see notice page 3-70

Step 5: Collect the 

Documents Associated 

with the Shipment on 

page 3-73

Lacks the required CITES 

document

1. PLACE the shipment 

on HOLD

2. GO to Violations, 

Seizures, and 

Forfeitures on page 

4-1

Lacks a Protected Plant Permit 1. ALLOW the exporter to 

apply for a Protected 

Plant Permit 

2. GO to Confirm PPP 

Valid or Apply for a 

PPP on page 3-75

Has an expired Protected 

Plant Permit 

1. ALLOW the exporter to 

apply for a Protected 

Plant Permit 

2. GO to Confirm PPP 

Valid or Apply for a 

PPP on page 3-75

Is not

engaged in 

commercial 

business

GO to page 3-71

Table 3-6 Determine Documents Needed for the Re-exportation of CITES Appendix III Regulated Timber 

Species (continued)

If the timber 

species is:

And the country 

of origin is:

And the 

permittee: And the exporter: Then:
Re-exportation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

3-72 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

 Dipteryx 

panamensis

(almendro)

 Fraxinus 

mandshurica

(manchurian 

ash)

 Magnolia liliifera

var. obovata

(magnolia)

 Pinus koraiensis

(Korean pine)

 Podocarpus 

neriifolius

(podocarp) 

 Quercus 

mongolica

(mongolian oak)

 Tetracentron 

sinense

(Tetracentron)

Any country Is not

engaged in 

commercial 

business

Presents one of the following 

USFWS-issued CITES 

Appendix III re-export 

documents 5

: 

 Re-export Certificate

designating source code W 

for specimens collected 

from the Wild, or source 

code A for Artificial 

Propagation (plantation 

grown); OR

 Other Certificate

designating 

Pre-Convention 

specimens; and 

designating the date of 

acquisition or certification 

the specimens were 

acquired before the date 

first included in the CITES 

appendices

A phytosanitary certificate may 

be required to accompany the 

shipment; see notice page 3-70

GO to Step 5: Collect the 

Documents Associated 

with the Shipment on 

page 3-73

Lacks the required CITES 

document

1. PLACE the shipment 

on HOLD

2. GO to ALLOW the 

exporter to apply for a 

Protected Plant Permit 

(see Confirm PPP 

Valid or Apply for a 

PPP on page 3-75)

1 Engaged in commercial business is defined as trade for the purpose of selling, bartering, collecting, or otherwise as a livelihood for gain or profit.

2 The validity of a CITES document expires at midnight (local time at the place of presentation) on the date indicated on the 

document. All activities, including but not limited to transport and presentation for import must be completed before that 

time.

Table 3-6 Determine Documents Needed for the Re-exportation of CITES Appendix III Regulated Timber 

Species (continued)

If the timber 

species is:

And the country 

of origin is:

And the 

permittee: And the exporter: Then:
Re-exportation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 3-73

Step 5: Collect the Documents Associated with the Shipment

Check to see if Block 5, Special Conditions, of the USFWS-issued CITES Reexport Certificate or Other Certificate requires that the permittee attach a copy 

of the CITES Export Permit or Certificate issued by the Management 

Authority in the country of origin. If so, then as part of the re-export validation 

process, you must verify that the CITES Appendix I, Appendix II, or Appendix 

III regulated timber or articles were originally legally imported into the U.S.

The permittee must provide you with a legible copy of a valid foreign CITES 

Export Permit or Certificate that was previously endorsed (stamped, released, 

signed, and dated by a PPQ Plant Health Safeguarding Specialist or PPQ 

Export Certification Specialist) at the CITES-designated port where the 

shipment was originally imported.

Collect the following valid documents associated with the shipment:

CITES Re-export Certificate or CITES Other Certificate (FWS Form 3-

201A) issued by U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service-Division of Management 

Authority (USFWS-DMA);

If the condition in Block 5, Special Conditions of the USFWS-issued 

CITES Certificate so states, then the permittee must provide you with a 

legible copy of a valid foreign CITES Export Permit or Certificate that 

was previously endorsed (stamped, released, signed, and dated by a PPQ 

Plant Health Safeguarding Specialist or PPQ Export Certification 

Specialist) at the CITES-designated port where the shipment was 

originally imported;

If the re-exporter is engaged in a commercial business, a copy of the 

USDA-APHIS ePermits-issued Protected Plant Permit, for the reexporter to engage in the commercial trade of CITES listed plants (see 

Protected Plant Permit on page A-27). If the re-exporter does not have a 

NOTICE

In addition to any CITES re-export documents listed as required in this manual, a 

Federal Phytosanitary Certificate may also be required. See the Export Program 

Manual (XPM) and PCIT. 

NOTICE

A Federal Phytosanitary Certificate for Re-export of CITES regulated timber species 

can only be issued at a designated port that is authorized to re-export CITESregulated logs and lumber. Issuance of a Federal Phytosanitary Certificate for 

Re-export of CITES Appendix I, Appendix II, or Appendix III regulated timber is 

contingent upon compliance with all CITES requirements Issue a Federal 

Phytosanitary Certificate for Re-export only if all CITES requirements have been 

satisfied.
Re-exportation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

3-74 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

permit, you may allow the re-exporter to apply for one (see Step 6: 

Ensure the Documents Have Not Expired on page 3-75; and follow the 

directions for allowing the re-exporter to apply for a new Protected Plant 

Permit); and

Cargo paperwork associated with the shipment (such as bill of lading, air 

waybill, invoice. and dimensional specification sheets2

).

2 Dimensional specification sheets (or dimensional tally inventory sheets) are used for articles that are 

imported in quantities expressed in cubic meters, square meters, or board feet, and inventory the 

size of each piece of lumber or veneer in each bundle shipped. Usually there will be more than one 

dimensional inventory sheet with each shipment.
Re-exportation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 3-75

Step 6: Ensure the Documents Have Not Expired

The USDA-APHIS ePermits Protected Plant Permit is valid for two years 

from the date issued. The expiration date is specified on the permit. 

To verify that the documents have not expired, check the upper right-hand 

corner of the USDA-issued Protected Plant Permit, and Block 2 of the CITES 

Re-export Certificate or CITES Other Certificate. 

The validity of a CITES document expires at midnight (local time at the place 

of presentation) on the date indicated on the document. All activities, including 

but not limited to transport and presentation for import must be completed 

before that time.

Confirm PPP Valid or Apply for a PPP

A new application is required for both first-time applicants and upon 

expiration of the currently-held Protected Plant Permit. 

1. Check ePermits to see if the exporter or re-exporter has a valid Protected 

Plant Permit. 

2. If the exporter or re-exporter does not have a Protected Plant Permit and is 

not a repeat violator or if the permit is missing or expired, then do the 

following: 

A. Give the importer PPQ Form 621, Application for Protected Plant 

Permit to Engage in Business of Importing, Exporting, or Reexporting... to apply for a Protected Plant Permit or go to ePermits. 

B. Have the exporter complete the application. 

3. Collect a check from the importer for $70, made payable to “Plant 

Protection and Quarantine”.

4. Mail the completed PPQ Form 621 application along with the $70 check to 

the following address:

USDA-APHIS-PPQ

PPQ Permit Unit

4700 River Road, Unit 136

Riverdale, MD 20737-1236

5. Once you are satisfied that the exporter or re-exporter has submitted the 

required application and fee, then continue to Renewal of an Expired 

CITES Re-export Certificate.

NOTICE

If the exporter is a repeat violator who has disregarded your instructions to secure a 

Protected Plant Permit, then see Violations, Seizures, and Forfeitures on page 4-1

before continuing in this section. 
Re-exportation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

3-76 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

Renewal of an Expired CITES Re-export Certificate

If the CITES Re-export Certificate has expired, then stop processing the reexport. Have the permittee contact the following to have the permittee’s CITES 

Re-export Certificate or Other Certificate reissued:

Robert Anderson 

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

Division of Management Authority 

5275 Leesburg Pike, MS: IA

Falls Church, VA 22041
Re-exportation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 3-77

Step 7: Confirm the Legal Importation

Confirm the articles have been legally imported. If the CITES Re-export 

Certificate, Block 5, Special Conditions, requires the permittee to attach a 

validated and endorsed (CBP-AS stamped) copy of the CITES Export Permit 

or Certificate from the country of origin 3 or the country of last re-export, then 

confirm a legible, validated, endorsed copy is attached. 

If the copy of the CITES Export Permit or Re-export Certificate presented to 

you is illegible or does not bear the stamp and signature of CBP-AS, then 

request the permittee or broker provide you with a legible, validated, endorsed 

copy.

If a legible, validated and endorsed copy of the export permit or re-export 

certificate is not provided or if you learn the importation is illegal, then the 

shipment may be subject to forfeiture. Contact a PPQ Botanist 4 for assistance.

3 The country where the article originated.

4 PPQ to identify the name of the Botanist that services your port, see Appendix C in the Plant 

Inspection Stations Manual.
Re-exportation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

3-78 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

Step 8: Verify the CITES Re-export Certificate Is Authentic 

and Acceptable

Compare the CITES document accompanying the shipment to the official 

examples of USFWS-issued documents (see page A-15 through page A-18). 

See the instructions in Table 3-7 to determine if the CITES document for reexport is valid. Table 3-7 is a summary of the information required on a CITES 

Permit or Certificate and does not cover extra information required on the 

specific types of documents. Complete coverage of this information can be 

found in 50 CFR §23.23(e).

NOTICE

Do not accept a CITES Re-export Certificate that is altered, modified, or crossed-out 

unless the modification or crossing out has been authenticated by the stamp and 

signature of the authority issuing the document. 

If you are presented with an altered or questionable CITES Re-export Certificate, 

then place the shipment on HOLD and contact your PPQ Botanist for assistance. 
Re-exportation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 3-79

Table 3-7 Instructions for Export or Re-export Verification of CITES Permits or Certificates Issued by 

USFWS 

Block Information 

entered by Instructions

The heading Block above refers to the block location on a USFWS-issued CITES document

EXPORT PERMIT

RE-EXPORT 

CERTIFICATE

OTHER CERTIFICATE

Division of 

Management 

Authority 

(DMA)

1. VERIFY the type of CITES document presented (Export Permit, 

Re-export Certificate, or Other Certificate) corresponds with the 

category of trade

2. If the CITES document is marked "Other Certificate", then the 

document must indicate the type of certificate (see Block 9), such 

as "Certificate of Artificial Propagation" (for plantation-grown 

trees); "Certificate of Origin"; or "Pre-Convention Certificate)

Page ___ of ____ DMA VERIFY the total number of document pages are presented to you 

for export validation

1 Original Permit/

Certificate No.

DMA VERIFY the certificate or permit number listed on the first page 

matches the certificate or permit number listed all subsequent pages 

of the document (such as continuation sheets and/or inventory 

sheets)

2 Valid until DMA VERIFY the certificate has not expired. A CITES Re-export 

Certificate is valid for 6 months from the date of issuance. The 

validity of a CITES document expires at midnight (local time at the 

place of presentation) on the date indicated on the document. All 

activities, including but not limited to transport and presentation for 

import must be completed before that time.

3 Permittee (name and 

address, country)

DMA VERIFY the permittee’s name and address matches the exporter’s 

name and address declared on the accompanying shipping 

documents (bill of lading air waybill, booking confirmation document, 

etc.)

CITES permits/certificates are not transferable; therefore the name 

and address of the exporter or re-exporter declared on the shipping 

document s must match the permittee’s name and address

4 Consignee (name and 

address, country)

Permittee 

(for partially 

completed 

documents; 

see Block 5) 

or DMA 

(for DMAcompleted 

documents)

VERIFY the consignee’s name and address matches the information 

listed on the accompanying shipping documents (bill of lading, air 

waybill, booking confirmation, etc.)

NOTICE

Accept a CITES document only if all the following information is complete and accurate. 
Re-exportation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

3-80 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

5 Special Conditions DMA 1. REVIEW the special conditions with which the permittee must

comply to use this document

2. If this block directs the permittee to complete specific portions of 

the certificate, then you must VERIFY the blocks are complete 

and correct (see example below)

3. If this block instructs the permittee to attach a copy of the CITES 

document used to import the article into the U.S., then FOLLOW 

the guidelines in Step 7: Confirm the Legal Importation

5a Purpose of Transaction DMA 1. VERIFY the purpose of transaction identified by a written 

description or by one of the codes in 50 CR §23.23(d) reflects the 

nature of the transaction. Most transactions will be commercial

2. with a transaction code T

1. VERIFY the transaction code is compatible with the source code 

recorded in Block 10 

6 U.S. Management 

Authority

DMA 1. CONFIRM the U.S. Management Authority address is:

Division of Management Authority 

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

MS: IA

5275 Leesburg Pike

Falls Church, VA 22041-3803

2. VERIFY the document bears an ink stamp and original signature 

from the U.S. Management Authority

3. COMPARE the issuance date in this block (6) to the expiration 

date in Block 2 (a USFWS CITES certificate is valid for 6 months)

7/8 Common Name and 

Scientific name (genus 

and species) of Animal 

or Plant

DMA VERIFY by review of the shipping documents (and later by 

inspection of the commodity), the common name and scientific name 

recorded matches what is being re-exported

9 Description of the part 

or derivative, including 

identifying marks or 

numbers

DMA VERIFY by review of the shipping documents (and later by 

inspection of the commodity), the description and identifying marks 

match what is being recorded in this block

10 Appendix No. and 

Source

DMA VERIFY the CITES Appendix number (of the species being 

re-exported) listed and found in Table 3-3 agrees with the CITES 

Appendix number listed on the CITES document

Table 3-7 Instructions for Export or Re-export Verification of CITES Permits or Certificates Issued by 

USFWS (continued)

Block Information 

entered by Instructions

EXAMPLE Permittee must complete Block 4, Consignee

and Block 11, Quantity

EXAMPLE A CITES Export Permit authorizing commercial 

trade (purpose of transaction code T) for a wildcollected Appendix I specimen (source code W) 

would not be valid, except for Pre-Convention 

specimens.
Re-exportation of CITES Timber Species

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05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 3-81

11 Quantity (including 

units)

Permittee 

(for partially 

completed 

documents; 

see Block 5) 

or DMA 

(for DMAcompleted 

documents)

1. VERIFY the quantity listed agrees with the quantity declared on 

the invoice and cargo papers accompanying the shipping 

documents

2. If Block 5, Special Conditions, directs the permittee to use a 

specific unit of quantity, or if Block 9, Description of Specimens,

denotes the unit of quantity in the description of the commodity, 

then VERIFY that the specified unit of quantity is also in this 

block (11)

3. If the accompanying paperwork declares quantities other than

directed, then see Conversion Formulas

4. If the instructions in Block 5 direct the permittee to attach a copy 

of the CITES document used to import the commodity, then 

COMPARE the quantity listed in this block with the quantity listed 

on the attached foreign CITES document 

5. If the quantity listed in this block exceeds the quantity listed on 

the attached foreign CITES document, then STOP processing 

the shipment and give the permittee the opportunity to remove 

excess material and present you with an new CITES Re-export 

Certificate

12 Country of Origin

Permit/Certificate No.

Date of Issue

Permittee 

(for partially 

completed 

documents; 

see Block 5) 

or DMA 

(for DMAcompleted 

documents)

If Block 5, Special Conditions, requires a copy of the foreign CITES 

import document be attached, then VERIFY the country of origin, the 

permit or certificate number, and the date of issuance on the 

attached document coincides with the information recorded in this 

block

13 Export/Re-export 

Endorsement:

PPQ ENTER the total quantities of specimens being exported/

re-exported in this block (See Block 7 to obtain the quantity)

14 Bill of Lading/Air 

Waybill Number

Port of Exportation/Reexportation

Total No. of Shipping 

Containers

PPQ ENTER the bill of lading/air waybill number (if available); port of 

exportation or re-exportation and total number of shipping containers

15 This document valid 

only with inspection 

official’s ORIGINAL 

stamp, signature and 

date in this block

PPQ STAMP with your original stamp, sign, and date

Table 3-7 Instructions for Export or Re-export Verification of CITES Permits or Certificates Issued by 

USFWS (continued)

Block Information 

entered by Instructions

NOTICE

The quantity listed in Block 11 must not exceed the 

quantity listed on the attached foreign CITES document. If 

this occurs, then STOP processing the shipment.
Re-exportation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

3-82 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

CITES Re-export Certificate with Incomplete or Inaccurate Information

If a CITES Re-export Certificate is presented to you with incomplete or 

inaccurate information or the document has expired 5

, then STOP processing 

the re-exportation. Place the shipment on HOLD and contact your PPQ 

Botanist 6

 for assistance. 

If the CITES document is acceptable, then continue to Step 9: Inspect the 

Shipment.

5 The validity of a CITES document expires at midnight (local time at the place of presentation) on the 

date indicated on the document. All activities, including but not limited to transport and presentation 

for import must be completed before that time.

6 To identify the name of the PPQ Botanist that services your port, see the List of Identifiers in the Plant 

Inspection Stations Manual.
Re-exportation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 3-83

Step 9: Inspect the Shipment

Inspect the shipment to assess the actual quantity of material being reexported. You may have to overcome the following difficulties in assessing the 

volume of material being shipped:

Accessibility of containerized cargo;

Bundles of lumber consisting of boards or sheets of various sizes; 

Enormity of the shipment; and

Identity of the pallets comprising the shipment.

When the size of commercial shipments makes impossible the inspection of 

the entire consignment to assess its quantity, then review the invoice, packing 

list, or dimensional specification sheets accompanying the consignment and 

determine the quantity of a representative unit (such as box, bundle, carton, 

etc.), for the shipment. Continue to Table 3-8 below. 

Continue to Table 3-9 to determine the action to take based on your inspection.

Table 3-8 Determine the Quantity of a Representative Unit for Inspection

If: Then:

Quantity recorded on the USFWS-issued CITES 

document is by weight

VERIFY that the weight of the unit you chose to inspect matches 

the unit’s weight as listed on the invoice or packing list

Quantity recorded on the USFWS-issued CITES 

document is by number of pieces

VERIFY that the number of pieces in the unit you chose to 

inspect matches the unit’s number of pieces as listed on the 

invoice or packing list

Quantity recorded on the USFWS-issued CITES 

document is in cubic meters, square meters, or 

board feet

CONDUCT a dimensional piece count 1

 to VERIFY the quantity 

of the unit you chose to inspect matches the quantity listed for 

that unit on the invoice, packing list, or dimensional specification 

sheet

Quantity as found by your physical inspection of a 

representative sample does not match the quantity 

listed on the invoice, packing list, or dimensional 

specification sheet

1. SELECT another representative sample to inspect

2. REPEAT the procedures listed above to determine the extent 

of the overage

1 To perform a dimensional piece count, you must measure each piece in the inspectional unit either by length and width; or 

by length, width, and height (thickness); and then multiply the subtotal by the number of pieces in the unit to calculate the 

total quantity of the unit. See Appendix C, Conversion Formulas for assistance.
Re-exportation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

3-84 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

Table 3-9 Determine the Action Based on the Inspection Results

If your inspection confirms: Then:

Exporter or re-exporter deliberately 

attempted to mislead you or concealed 

unauthorized articles

1. In addition to seizure and forfeiture of the shipment, the importer may 

be subject to civil or criminal penalties. COMPLETE CITES Standard 

CITES Form (see Appendix A instructions) to document the violation

2. CONTACT a PPQ Botanist1 to report the violation

Quantity is equal to or less than the quantity 

listed on the USFWS-issued CITES 

Certificate

CONTINUE to Step 10: Validate the CITES Documents By Stamp and 

Endorsement

Quantity in excess of the quantity listed on 

the USFWS-issued CITES Certificate

1. Shipment is in violation of CITES Regulations and is subject to 

seizure and forfeiture. SEEViolations, Seizures, and Forfeitures for 

forfeiture procedures

2. CONTACT a PPQ Botanist for assistance with forfeiture procedures

Unauthorized articles 

(CITES regulated articles that are not

recorded on the CITES document)

1. Shipment is in violation of CITES Regulations and is subject to 

seizure and forfeiture. SEE Violations, Seizures, and Forfeitures

2. forfeiture procedures

3. CONTACT a PPQ Botanist for assistance with forfeiture procedures

1 PPQ to identify the PPQ Botanist that services your port, see Appendix C in the Plant Inspection Stations Manual.
Re-exportation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 3-85

Step 10: Validate the CITES Documents By Stamp and 

Endorsement 

The CITES Re-export Certificate is not valid until a PPQ Plant Health 

Safeguarding Specialist or PPQ Export Certification Specialist completes 

Blocks 13, 14, and 15 of this form. 

If the shipment complies with the USFWS-issued CITES Re-export Certificate

and the procedures listed in Steps 1 through 9 of this chapter, then validate the 

original CITES document as follows. 

1. Use your official “USDA-APHIS-PPQ Inspected and Released” or 

“USDA-APHIS-PPQ Released” stamp that bears your port location. 

2. Sign your name in ink, and write your badge number and the date. See 

Table 3-10 for detailed instructions. 

Table 3-10 Instructions for Validation and Endorsement of CITES Re-export Certificate 

Block (from Standard CITES 

Form; may vary) Completed by Instructions

14 Export Endorsement PPQ Plant Health Safeguarding 

Specialist (PHSS), PPQ Export 

Certification Specialist (ECS), 

Identifier, or Supervisor

1. ENTER in the Block/Quantity table row A, 

B, C, or D the quantity of material being 

re-exported; this must be equal to or less 

than the quantity entered in Block 11, 

Quantity (including unit) of the Standard 

CITES Form

2. LINE OUT the remaining (unused) rows

(must be completed for endorsement)

15 Bill of Lading/Air Waybill 

Number

PPQ Plant Health Safeguarding 

Specialist (PHSS), PPQ Export 

Certification Specialist (ECS), 

Identifier, or Supervisor

If available, then LIST the bill of lading or air 

waybill number

Port of Export PPQ Plant Health Safeguarding 

Specialist (PHSS), PPQ Export 

Certification Specialist (ECS), 

Identifier, or Supervisor

LIST the port of export or re-export’s city and 

State (must be completed for endorsement 

and validation)

Date PPQ Plant Health Safeguarding 

Specialist (PHSS), PPQ Export 

Certification Specialist (ECS), 

Identifier, or Supervisor

LIST the date the CITES certificate is 

endorsed (must be completed for 

endorsement and validation)

Signature PPQ Plant Health Safeguarding 

Specialist (PHSS), PPQ Export 

Certification Specialist (ECS), 

Identifier, or Supervisor

SIGN (use ink) (must be completed for 

endorsement and validation)

Official Stamp and Title PPQ Plant Health Safeguarding 

Specialist (PHSS), PPQ Export 

Certification Specialist (ECS), 

Identifier, or Supervisor

STAMP with an official “USDA-APHIS-PPQ 

Inspected and Released” stamp bearing your 

port location (must be completed for 

endorsement and validation)
Re-exportation of CITES Timber Species

Procedures

3-86 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

Step 11: Distribute the CITES Documents

When Block 5, Special Conditions, states the permittee must attach a copy of 

the foreign CITES Export Permit or Certificate, then distribute as follows:

1. Send the validated original USFWS-issued CITES Certificate with a copy 

of the foreign CITES Export Permit or Certificate attached, to the permittee 

with the following instructions:

2. Permittee is to forward the documents with the shipment (documents must

accompany shipment). Permittee may make and keep a photocopy of the 

documents.

3. Send a copy of the validated original USFWS-issued CITES Certificate 

with a copy of the foreign CITES Export Permit or Certificate attached, to 

the following office:

Robert Anderson

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

Division of Management Authority 

5700 Leesburg Pike, MS: IA

Falls Church, VA 22041

4. Keep a copy of the validated original USFWS-issued CITES Certificate 

with a copy of the foreign CITES Export Permit or Certificate attached, in 

the port file. 

NOTICE

CITES files must be retained for five years. See Filing System on page 3-3 for 

directions on how to set up and maintain files.
Re-exportation of CITES Timber Species

Transportation and Exportation (T&E) of CITES Appendix I, Appendix II, Appendix III Regulated Timber Species

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual 3-87

Transportation and Exportation (T&E) of CITES Appendix I, 

Appendix II, Appendix III Regulated Timber Species 

Canada or Mexico

Follow the steps listed below when releasing the shipment for transportation 

and exportation (T&E) of CITES Appendix I, Appendix II, or Appendix III 

regulated timber species to Canada or Mexico:

1. Verify that the shipment is accompanied by CBP Form 7512 or other 

accepted in-bond document.

2. Stamp the CBP paperwork, “Released for Exportation.” 

Do not stamp the CITES document; this will be done by the Canadian or 

Mexican authorities.

3. Apply any necessary safeguards.

4. Allow the shipment to proceed. 

NOTICE

 If the CBP paperwork designates both a U.S. Company (middle man) and a 

Canadian or Mexican consignee, then review the CITES document to verify that the 

consignee is actually Canadian or Mexican and not U.S. If the CITES document 

declares a U.S. company as the consignee, then the T&E must be handled as a 

CITES re-export.
Re-exportation of CITES Timber Species

Immediate Exportation (IE) of CITES Appendix I, Appendix II, Appendix III Regulated Timber Species

3-88 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

Immediate Exportation (IE) of CITES Appendix I, Appendix II, 

Appendix III Regulated Timber Species

Follow these steps for the immediate exportation (IE) of CITES Appendix I, 

Appendix II, and Appendix III regulated timber species:

1. Verify the shipment is accompanied by CBP Form 7512 or other accepted 

export document.

2. Stamp the CBP paperwork, “Released for Exportation.” 

Do not stamp the CITES document; this will be done by the authorities at 

the country of destination. 

3. Apply any necessary safeguards.

4. Allow the shipment to proceed.
04/2022-79 CITES Timber Species Manual 4-1

Chapter

4 Violations, Seizures, and 

Forfeitures

Contents

Introduction 4-1

Procedures 4-2

CITES Contacts 4-2

Violations of USDA Regulations 4-3

Step 1: Determine if a Violation of USDA Regulations Concerning CITES 

Regulated Plants Exists 4-3

Step 2: Complete PPQ Form 518, Notice of Violation 4-4

Violations of CITES Regulations 4-5

Step 1: Confirm a Violation of CITES Exists and Warrants Seizure and 

Forfeiture 4-5

Step 2: Hold the Regulated Timber or Articles Only and Notify Parties 

4-8

Step 3: Estimate the Retail Value of the Timber or Articles Moving in 

Violation of the Legislation 4-8

Step 4: Start the Forfeiture Procedures 4-9

Step 5: Safeguard the Seized Timber or Articles 4-14

Request for Services to Transport, Store, and/or Dispose of Shipments 

4-14

Step 6: Forfeit Seized or Abandoned Material Valued at $10,000 or Less 

4-16

Step 7: Await Court Decision for Seized or Forfeited Material Valued 

Greater Than $10,000 4-22

Step 8: Start the Process for Disposal of Forfeited Material Valued at 

$10,000 or Less 4-23

Maintenance of CITES Documents 4-25

Filing System for Violations, Seizures, and Forfeitures 4-25

Introduction

This chapter provides the procedures for processing violations of CITES 

Appendix I, Appendix II, and Appendix III protected timber species, and for 

seizure and forfeiture of CITES regulated timber species (including articles 

made from protected timber). 
Violations, Seizures, and Forfeitures

Procedures

4-2 CITES Timber Species Manual 04/2022-79

Procedures 

The procedures which follow have been established to report violations and 

initiate seizure and forfeiture for regulated plants, including their parts and 

derivatives when offered for or traded in contravention CITES. 

CITES Contacts

Some circumstances are identified in this chapter as requiring contacting the 

PPQ Botanist that services your port, and others require contacting the 

National CITES Specialist or the National CITES Coordinator. 

If after reading the procedures in this chapter, CBP Officers still have a CITESrelated question regarding a shipment, then contact the CBP field office liaison 

through the chain of command. Include your name, phone number, and e-mail 

address. If after reading the procedures in this chapter, PPQ Officers still have 

a CITES-related question regarding a shipment, then first contact the PPQ 

Botanist that services your port 1. 

If the PPQ Botanist is not available or is unable to answer your question, then 

contact the National CITES Specialist, Timothy Torbett or the National CITES 

Coordinator, John Veremis (e-mail timothy.j.torbett@usda.gov or 

john.veremis@usda.gov). Include your name, phone number, and e-mail 

address when contacting the National CITES Specialist or the National CITES 

Coordinator.

1 CBP and PPQ: To determine the name and contact information for the PPQ Botanist that services 

your port, see List of PPQ Identifiers and National Specialists.

NOTICE

The person making a CITES-related inquiry should include his or her name, phone number, 

and e-mail address so that the National CITES Specialist or the National CITES Coordinator is 

able to reply or obtain additional details.
Violations, Seizures, and Forfeitures

Violations of USDA Regulations

04/2022-79 CITES Timber Species Manual 4-3

Violations of USDA Regulations

Violations of USDA species regulations concerning CITES plants (7CFR 355) 

will generally result in the issuance of PPQ Form 518, Report of Violation. 

Repeat violations of 7 CFR 355 or deliberate attempts to circumvent 

regulations will result in seizure and forfeiture of CITES regulated material. 

To determine if seizure and forfeiture is warranted, verify that the violator is a 

repeat offender or deliberately attempted to circumvent regulations. Contact 

the PPQ National CITES Specialist 2 or National CITES Coordinator for 

advice. CBP Agriculture Specialists (CBP-AS) must go through proper 

channels. 

Step 1: Determine if a Violation of USDA Regulations 

Concerning CITES Regulated Plants Exists

A violation of the USDA regulations concerning CITES regulated plants exists 

when a party (importer, exporter, or re-exporter) commits one or more of the 

following:

Engages in commercial business as an importer, exporter, or re-exporter 

without a USDA-APHIS ePermits-issued Protected Plant Permit;

Fails to notify CBP or PPQ promptly upon the arrival or prior to the 

export or re-export of regulated material, by such means as a manifest, 

Customs’ (CBP) entry, invoice, or waybill, with the genus and species of 

the regulated material listed;

Fails to provide the genus and species of regulated material by such means 

as a tag, invoice. or packing list, or identification on the shipping 

container;

Fails (for any person engaged in business as an importer, exporter, or reexporter) to maintain records for the trade of regulated material for a 

period of five years; 

Fails or denies (for any person engaged in business as an importer, 

exporter, or re-exporter) to provide CBP or PPQ access to examine such 

records or inventory of regulated material; or

2 The National CITES Specialist is Timothy Torbett, timothy.j.torbett@usda.gov; and the National 

CITES Coordinator is John Veremis, john.veremis@usda.gov. 

EXAMPLE If a violator’s Protected Plant Permit is revoked and the violator attempts to 

import, export, or re-export CITES regulated material, then seizure and 

forfeiture is warranted.
Violations, Seizures, and Forfeitures

Violations of USDA Regulations

4-4 CITES Timber Species Manual 04/2022-79

Moves regulated material from the Customs’ (CBP) area (pertaining to 

imports) or from the designated port (pertaining to exports or re-exports) 

without submitting the original CITES document to CBP or PPQ for 

validation (for re-exported material when the CITES certificate is not

endorsed, then the foreign CITES management authority may seize the 

property).

If there are other violations in addition to those listed above, then continue to 

Violations of CITES Regulations.

Step 2: Complete PPQ Form 518, Notice of Violation

See CITES Standard CITES Form on page A-9 for an example, and page A-21

for directions on completing the form. If PPQ Form 518 is available on-line, 

then complete the form electronically as appropriate. 
Violations, Seizures, and Forfeitures

Violations of CITES Regulations

04/2022-79 CITES Timber Species Manual 4-5

Violations of CITES Regulations

Violations of CITES regulations (50 CFR 23, 24 and 16 USC 1538) for plants 

(including their parts or derivatives) listed by the Convention will generally 

result in both a report of violation (PPQ form 518, Report of Violation), and 

seizure and forfeiture of the illegally-traded material. 

Step 1: Confirm a Violation of CITES Exists and Warrants 

Seizure and Forfeiture

A violation of CITES regulations exists when a party (importer, exporter, or reexporter) does one or more of the following:

Imports3

, exports4, re-exports5, or possesses plants listed in CITES 

Appendix I, Appendix II, or Appendix III, with invalid CITES 

documentation or without a CITES document

Imports, exports, or re-exports regulated plants in quantities that exceed 

the quantity recorded on the CITES permit or certificate

Imports, exports, or re-exports regulated plants into or out of a port that 

has not been designated for the movement of such plants

To confirm that a violation exists and warrants forfeiture and seizure of the 

timber or articles, see Table 4-11.

3 (Importer, importing, importation) to land on, bring into, introduce into, or attempt to land on, bring 

into, or introduce into any place subject to the jurisdiction of the United States.

4 (Exporter, exporting, exportation) to carry, send, take, transport, or otherwise remove, or attempt to 

carry, send, take, transport or otherwise remove from any place subject to the jurisdiction of the 

United States.

5 (Re-exporter, re-exporting, re-exportation) to export following importation.
Violations, Seizures, and Forfeitures

Violations of CITES Regulations

4-6 CITES Timber Species Manual 04/2022-79

Table 4-11 Confirm the Violation Warrants Seizure and Forfeiture 

If you have: And the:

And you 

determine: Then:

Attempt to import into the 

United States with an invalid 

CITES document or 

without a CITES document

1. CONTINUE processing the violation and complete PPQ Form 518, 

Notice of Violation; seizure and 

forfeiture is warranted

2. GO to Step 2: Hold the Regulated 

Timber or Articles Only and Notify 

Parties

Attempt to import into the 

United States and the 

importer claims the CITES 

document was lost or 

destroyed during shipping

1. PLACE the shipment on HOLD; 

do not proceed with seizure and 

forfeiture

2. CONTACT a PPQ Botanist for 

assistance 1

Attempt to export or reexport from the United 

States with an invalid CITES 

document or without a valid 

CITES document

Person is 

knowledgeable 2

1. CONTINUE processing the violation and complete PPQ Form 518, 

Notice of Violation; seizure and 

forfeiture is warranted

2. GO to Step 2: Hold the Regulated 

Timber or Articles Only and Notify 

Parties

Re-exporter presents 

regulated articles to you 

for the purpose of 

inquiring about CITES3

There is no

deliberate attempt 

to defraud or violate 

the regulations

PROVIDE the person with the 

required information to obtain the 

necessary CITES documents; 

seizure and forfeiture is not

warranted

Attempt to import, export, or 

re-export regulated material 

through a non-designated 

port

Person is 

knowledgeable1

1. CONTINUE processing the violation and complete PPQ Form 518, 

Notice of Violation; seizure and 

forfeiture is warranted

2. GO to Step 2: Hold the Regulated 

Timber or Articles Only and Notify 

Parties

Person is unaware of 

the designated port 

requirement4

There is no obvious 

attempt to defraud 

or violate the 

regulations

PROVIDE the person with the 

required information and allow to 

arrange to have the shipment 

rerouted to a designated port at the 

owner’s expense 

Evidence that a permit, 

certificate, or other official 

document was altered or 

forged to gain advantage

1. CONTINUE processing the violation and complete PPQ Form 518, 

Notice of Violation; seizure and 

forfeiture is warranted

2. GO to Step 2: Hold the Regulated 

Timber or Articles Only and Notify 

Parties
Violations, Seizures, and Forfeitures

Violations of CITES Regulations

04/2022-79 CITES Timber Species Manual 4-7

Quantities in excess of the 

quantity recorded on the 

CITES document

1. CONTINUE processing the 

violation and complete PPQ Form 

518, Notice of Violation; seizure 

and forfeiture is warranted

2. GO to Step 2: Hold the Regulated 

Timber or Articles Only and Notify 

Parties

Unauthorized regulated 

material (CITES regulated 

articles that are not

recorded on the CITES 

document)

1. CONTINUE processing the 

violation and complete PPQ Form 

518, Notice of Violation; seizure 

and forfeiture is warranted

2. GO to Step 2: Hold the Regulated 

Timber or Articles Only and Notify 

Parties

Violation other than listed 

in the cells above

1. STOP processing the violation

2. CONTACT a PPQ Botanist 

through proper channels

1 CBP and PPQ: To identify the name of the PPQ Botanist that services your port, see the Lists of Identifiers and National 

Specialists.

2 Consider a person knowledgeable if any of the following apply: the person was given prior information regarding CITES 

regulations; is a Protected Plant Permit (PPP) holder; deliberately attempted to conceal CITES-regulated material; or is a 

repeat violator.

3 The lack of a CITES document by a re-exporter may be due, in part to a lack of knowledge about the regulations.

4 An attempt to import or re-export through a non-designated port may be due, in part to the person’s lack of knowledge about 

the regulations. 

Table 4-11 Confirm the Violation Warrants Seizure and Forfeiture (continued)

If you have: And the:

And you 

determine: Then:
Violations, Seizures, and Forfeitures

Violations of CITES Regulations

4-8 CITES Timber Species Manual 04/2022-79

Step 2: Hold the Regulated Timber or Articles Only and Notify 

Parties

If you have not already done so, then place the material moving in violation of 

CITES regulations on HOLD. Notify all parties involved that the material is 

not to be moved without CBP’s or PPQ’s permission.

Be sure non-CITES material or timber in the same shipment as CITESregulated material and timber has been separated. Do not keep non-CITES 

material with held CITES material. 

Continue to Step 3: Estimate the Retail Value of the Timber or Articles Moving 

in Violation of the Legislation.

Step 3: Estimate the Retail Value of the Timber or Articles 

Moving in Violation of the Legislation

If the same wood or article as the property on hold is sold in the United States, 

then use the price asked by the nearest retailer to estimate the value. If the same 

wood or article as the property on hold is not sold in the United States or if 

impractical to contact a retailer, then use the material’s invoiced value. 

Continue to Step 4: Start the Forfeiture Procedures.
Violations, Seizures, and Forfeitures

Violations of CITES Regulations

04/2022-79 CITES Timber Species Manual 4-9

Step 4: Start the Forfeiture Procedures

The forfeiture procedures will allow you to seize (gain legal custody) and take 

possession of the material, and to facilitate prosecution by CBP, PPQ, or 

USFWS-Division of Management Authority (DMA). 

After you have obtained the value of the material, then see Table 4-12 to 

determine the forfeiture procedures to use.

Once PPQ Form 624, Notice for Seizure and Proposed Forfeiture of Property 

Valued at $10,000 or Less or PPQ Form 624A, Notice for Seizure of Property 

Valued Greater Than $10,000 is completed and issued to the owner of the 

material, then the status of the material moves from held to seized and is now 

officially in the custody of CBP or PPQ.

Forfeiture Procedures for Seizures Valued at $10,000 or Less

When the seizure is valued at $10,000 or less, follow these steps and continue 

processing the violation:

1. Allow the owner to either waive title (by completing PPQ Form 623, 

Waiver of Forfeiture Procedures by Owner of Seized Property $10,000 or 

Less) to the material moving in violation of the legislation or to challenge 

the forfeiture of that material. 

2. Advise the owner that the material becomes forfeited after 21 days. 

3. Complete PPQ Form 624, Notice for Seizure and Proposed Forfeiture of 

Property Valued at $10,000 or Less (see the examples on page A-32 and 

page A-37; instructions for completing the Part 1 on page A-33, and Part 5 

on page A-38) for material seized under CITES legislation. 

Then do as follows:

A. Verify that the file number is listed on all applicable forms (see Filing 

System for Violations, Seizures, and Forfeitures on page 4-25).

B. Make certain to record the date and time of posting PPQ Form 624: in 

Block 7 of Part 1-PPQ Headquarters, and in Block 7a of Part 5-PPQ/

CBP Port Worksheet. 

Table 4-12 Determine Forfeiture Procedures to Use for Seized Timber or 

Articles

If:

And you estimate the value of 

the seized material to be: Then:

Seized timber 

or articles

$10,000 or less GO to Forfeiture Procedures for 

Seizures Valued at $10,000 or Less

More than $10,000 GO to Forfeiture Procedures for 

Seizures Valued Greater than 

$10,000
Violations, Seizures, and Forfeitures

Violations of CITES Regulations

4-10 CITES Timber Species Manual 04/2022-79

C. Immediately post PPQ Form 624, Part 3-Port Copy (for posting) at the 

CBP or PPQ office (where the material was seized) in a conspicuous 

place that is accessible to the public; and keep Part 3-Port Copy posted 

for 21 days. 

D. Make certain you enter the appropriate dates and times in Blocks 6 and 

7 on Part 5-PPQ/CBP Port Worksheet of PPQ Form 624.

4. Distribute PPQ Form 623 and PPQ Form 624 as follows:

A. If the owner or owner’s agent is present and signs PPQ Form 623, 

Waiver of Forfeiture Procedures by Owner of Seized Property $10,000 

or Less, then distribute the forms as follows:

a. Hand Part 2 of PPQ Form 623 to the owner or agent

b. File Part 1 of PPQ Form 623 in the CBP or PPQ port file 

c. Keep Part 4 of PPQ Form 624 in the port file 

(not necessary to provide the owner or agent with this copy)

d. Continue to 5. on page 4-11

B. If the owner or owner’s agent is present and did not sign PPQ Form 

623 or is not present, then send PPQ form 624, Part 4-Owner, by 

Certified or Registered Mail with Return Receipt Requested together 

with the following, to all persons believed to be owners or to have an 

interest in the seized material 6:

PPQ Form 623, Waiver of Forfeiture Procedures by Owner of 

Seized Property $10,000 or Less, Part 2

PPQ Form 625 Claim and Bond

PPQ Form 626, Petition for Remission or Mitigation of Forfeiture

If multiple owners or agents are identified, then you may send 

photocopies of the required forms in lieu of the actual forms.

5. Make certain you enter the appropriate dates and times in Blocks 6 and 7 on 

Part 5-PPQ/CBP Port Worksheet of PPQ Form 624 .

6 Those that may have an interest include interested parties such as the owner’s agent, shipping line, 

or supplier. These people are identified on PPQ Form 624, Part 4 (worksheet), Block 6.

NOTICE

If the owner or owner’s agent is present and requests a copy of PPQ Form 624, 

Notice for Seizure and Proposed Forfeiture of Property Valued at $10,000 or Less, 

then make a photocopy of Part 4 and give the photocopy to the owner or owner’s 

agent. You must also send the original Part 4-Owner, PPQ Form 624 to the owner 

or owner’s agent by Certified or Registered Mail with Return Receipt Requested

to comply with the regulations.
Violations, Seizures, and Forfeitures

Violations of CITES Regulations

04/2022-79 CITES Timber Species Manual 4-11

6. Scan and E-mail Part 1-PPQ Headquarters PPQ Form 624, and if 

applicable, the signed PPQ Form 623, to the National CITES Coordinator:

E-mail: john.veremis@usda.gov

Subject: PPQ Form 624, Notice for Seizure and Proposed Forfeiture for 

Violation $10,000 or Less

Attn: National CITES Coordinator

(In the near future, you will be notified to send the original actual 

document to Riverdale.)

7. File and retain the following completed forms:

A. After 21 days, remove, file, and retain the posted Part 3-Port Copy of 

PPQ Form 624.

B. File and retain Part 5-PPQ/CBP Port Worksheet copy of PPQ Form 

624, to know what has happened, who was notified, and when the next 

step is to be taken. Update Part 5 as necessary.

C. Make certain that all relevant documents have been collected and filed; 

and update the documents in the file as necessary.

For detailed instructions on completing forms for seizures valued at $10,000 or 

less, see the following in Appendix A, Forms and Permits:

PPQ Form 621, page A-25 through page A-26

PPQ Form 623, page A-29 through page A-31

PPQ Form 624, Part 1, page A-33 through page A-34

PPQ Form 624, Part 5-PPQ/CBP Port Worksheet, page A-37 through 

page A-40

PPQ Form 625, page A-48 through page A-49

PPQ Form 626, page A-50 through page A-51

If you need additional guidance, contact the PPQ Botanist at your port or the 

PPQ Botanist whose area of coverage services your port 7.

Continue to Step 5: Safeguard the Seized Timber or Articles.

7 CBP and PPQ: see the List of PPQ Identifiers and National Specialists. 
Violations, Seizures, and Forfeitures

Violations of CITES Regulations

4-12 CITES Timber Species Manual 04/2022-79

Forfeiture Procedures for Seizures Valued Greater than $10,000

When the seizure is valued greater than $10,000, follow these forfeiture 

procedures, then continue processing the violation:

1. Complete PPQ Form 624A, Notice for Seizure of Property Valued Greater 

Than $10,000. (See the examples on page A-41 and page A-45; and the 

instructions in Table A-10 on page 42 and in Table A-11 on page 46).

2. Make certain you enter the appropriate dates in Block 7 PPQ Form 624A, 

Parts 1 through 4. 

3. Make certain you enter the appropriate dates in Blocks 6 and 7 of PPQ 

Form 624A, Part 5-PPQ/CBP Port Worksheet.

4. Proofread the completed PPQ Form 624A to ensure that there are no 

inaccuracies or omissions. 

5. Make sure that all relevant documents have been collected and filed. 

Update the file as necessary.

6. Write a narrative report of all relevant facts and circumstances of the 

violation, as follows:

Prepare the narrative report on CBP or PPQ letterhead

CBP or PPQ letterhead must be dated and bear your name, 

signature, and title

CBP or PPQ Letterhead must be used since the seizure will be 

brought before a U.S. District Court by the U.S. Attorney’s Office

Include the names of any witnesses

Cite the laws believed to have been violated

If you need additional guidance, then contact your PPQ Botanist 

through proper channels.

7. The Officer signs the PPQ Form 624A. 

8. Assemble the following documents:

Narrative report original (written by CBP Agriculture Specialist, or 

PPQ Plant Health Safeguarding Specialist. or PPQ Export 

Certification Specialist)

PPQ Form 624A, Part 1-PPQ Headquarters original

Correspondence and documents that accompanied the shipment
Violations, Seizures, and Forfeitures

Violations of CITES Regulations

04/2022-79 CITES Timber Species Manual 4-13

9. Scan the assembled documents E-mail to:

E-mail: john.veremis@usda.gov

Subject: PPQ Form 624A, Part 1, Narrative Report, Correspondence, 

& Shipping Documents

Attn: National CITES Coordinator

(In the near future, you will be notified to send (via overnight shipment for 

next-day delivery) the actual assembled documents to Riverdale.)

10. Use Certified or Registered Mail with Return Receipt Requested to send 

the following forms to all persons believed to be owners or to have an 

interest in the seized material 8

: 

PPQ Form 624A, Notice for Seizure of Property Valued Greater Than 

$10,000, Part 4-Owner only

PPQ Form 626, Petition for Remission or Mitigation of Forfeiture 

11. Retain the PPQ Form 624A, Notice for Seizure of Property Valued Greater 

Than $10,000, Part 2-PPQ/CBP Port File and Part 5-PPQ/CBP Port 

Worksheet in your Port file for five years.

For detailed instructions on completing forms for seizures valued greater than 

$10,000, see the following in Appendix A, Forms and Permits:

PPQ Form 624A, Notice for Seizure of Property Valued Greater Than 

$10,000 on page A-41 through page A-44

PPQ Form 624A, Notice for Seizure of Property Valued Greater Than 

$10,000 on page A-41 through page A-47

 PPQ Form 626, Petition for Remission or Mitigation of Forfeiture on 

page A-50 through page A-51

Go to Step 5: Safeguard the Seized Timber or Articles on page 4-14.

8 Those that may have an interest include interested parties such as owner’s agent, shipping line, or 

supplier. These people are identified on PPQ Form 624A, Part 5, Block 6.

NOTICE

If multiple owners or agents are identified, then you may send photocopies of the forms. 
Violations, Seizures, and Forfeitures

Violations of CITES Regulations

4-14 CITES Timber Species Manual 04/2022-79

Step 5: Safeguard the Seized Timber or Articles

Safeguard the seized protected timber or articles until the material leaves your 

(CBP Agriculture Specialist (CBP-AS), PPQ Plant Health Safeguarding 

Specialist (PHSS), or PPQ Export Certification Specialist (PPQ ECS)) care. 

Make sure that no part of the shipment is lost. 

Request for Services to Transport, Store, and/or Dispose of Shipments

Forfeiture procedures can take a lengthy amount of time and considerable 

storage costs may accumulate. When material is seized after being placed on 

hold pending final U.S. Government forfeiture, the CBP-AS, PPQ-PHSS, or 

PPQ-ECS must immediately contact the proprietor of the facility and inquire if 

there is room to continue to store the shipment at the facility and if storage fees 

apply to CBP or PPQ. 

If either or of the following conditions apply, then immediately complete a 

Request for Services to Transport, Store, and/or Dispose of Seized or Forfeited

Shipments:

Room is not available to store the shipment at the port facility; or

Storage fees apply to USDA-PPQ at the port facility where the seized 

items are being stored.

1. Click on Request for Services to Transport, Store, and/or Dispose of Seized 

or Forfeited Shipments to obtain a copy of the fillable form. See page A-4

for an example and instructions on completing the request.

2. Scan and send via e-mail, the completed Request for Services to Transport, 

Store, and/or Dispose of Seized or Forfeited Shipments to:

E-mail: john.veremis@usda.gov

Subject: Request for Services to Transport, Store, and/or Dispose of Seized 

or Forfeited Shipments

Attn: National CITES Coordinator

The contractor will contact the CBP or PPQ Point-of-Contact Officer to 

schedule an appointment to have the loading of the seized material supervised.

If room is available to store the shipment at the port facility and storage fees do 

not apply, then contact the National CITES Specialist, Timothy Torbett, 

timothy.j.torbett@usda.gov, or the National CITES Coordinator, John Veremis, 

john.veremis@usda.gov, to determine if other temporary storage is necessary. 

NOTICE

Notify all parties involved that the seized material is not to be moved without CBP’s or PPQ’s 

permission.
Violations, Seizures, and Forfeitures

Violations of CITES Regulations

04/2022-79 CITES Timber Species Manual 4-15

For seizures valued at $10,000 or less, do as follows:

If you did not receive a signed PPQ Form 623, then continue to Step 6: 

Forfeit Seized or Abandoned Material Valued at $10,000 or Less

If you did receive a signed PPQ Form 623, then continue to 

Step 8: Start the Process for Disposal of Forfeited Material Valued at 

$10,000 or Less

For seizures valued greater than $10,000, continue to Step 7: Await Court 

Decision for Seized or Forfeited Material Valued Greater Than $10,000.
Violations, Seizures, and Forfeitures

Violations of CITES Regulations

4-16 CITES Timber Species Manual 04/2022-79

Step 6: Forfeit Seized or Abandoned Material Valued at 

$10,000 or Less

If PPQ Form 625, Claim and Bond is not received by your office within 20 

days 9 after posting the Notice of Proposed Forfeiture or if the importer or 

re-exporter does not present an acceptable CITES document, then you may 

forfeit seized or abandoned property valued at $10,000 or less.

If PPQ Form 625, Claim and Bond, is received directly by your office within 

20 days after posting the Notice of Proposed Forfeiture, then go to Procedures 

to Follow Upon Receipt of PPQ Form 625, Claim and Bond on page 4-18. 

If a CITES document is presented by an importer or exporter during the 

forfeiture process, then the document can only be accepted if the document 

was issued in accordance with Conference Resolution 12.3, Section I, 

paragraphs p), and q), (for replacement documents); and Section XIII, 

paragraphs a), b), and c), (for retrospective issue of permits and certificates). 

See Conference Resolution 12.3 (Rev. CoP 15), Permits and Certificates on 

page B-4. Contact the National CITES Specialist 10 or the National CITES 

Coordinator to assist you with determining if the CITES document is 

acceptable.

9 The Deputy Administrator may extend the 20-day period with an appropriate statement on the posted 

notice of proposed forfeiture, if necessary, to allow a person deemed to have an interest in the 

property at least 10 days to file such a claim and bond after receipt of a notice of proposed forfeiture.

NOTICE

If PPQ Form 625, Claim and Bond, was received by the PPQ Deputy Administrator’s Office, 

then you will be notified by PPQ. If storage is available at the port facility at no charge, then 

continue to safeguard the seizure. You will be notified by PPQ of when the seized property can 

be forfeited; and you may be asked to serve papers issued by the U.S. Marshals Service.

10 The National CITES Specialist is Timothy Torbett timothy.j.torbett@usda.gov. The National CITES 

Coordinator is John Veremis, john.veremis@usda.gov. 
Violations, Seizures, and Forfeitures

Violations of CITES Regulations

04/2022-79 CITES Timber Species Manual 4-17

Procedures for Forfeiting Seized Property

If 20 days after posting PPQ Form 624, Notice for Seizure and Proposed 

Forfeiture of Property Valued at $10,000 or Less you did not receive PPQ 

Form 625 Claim and Bond; or you did not receive notification from the PPQHQ/Deputy Administrator’s office that PPQ Form 625 was received; or you 

did not receive an acceptable CITES document, then the seized property shall 

be forfeited as follows:

1. If PPQ Form 626, Petition for Remission or Mitigation of Forfeiture, was 

not received, then complete PPQ Form 627, Declaration of Forfeiture. See 

the example on page A-53 and the dates recorded on PPQ Form 624 Part 

3-Port Copy, and Part 5-PPQ/CBP Port Worksheet.

2. If PPQ Form 623, Waiver of Forfeiture Procedures by Owner of Seized 

Property $10,000 or Less, was signed by the owner or agent, then 

completing PPQ Form 627 is not necessary.

A. Send Part 2-Owner, PPQ Form 627, Declaration of Forfeiture, by 

Certified or Registered Mail with Return Receipt Requested, to the 

owner(s) of the forfeited material. (If more than one owner, then send 

Part 3-Owner to the additional owner.) 

B. Retain Part 1-PPQ Port File copy of PPQ Form 627 in the port file.

C. Record in Block 6 of PPQ Form 624, Part 5-PPQ/CBP Port Worksheet, 

the date and time you mail PPQ Form 627.

Continue to Step 8: Start the Process for Disposal of Forfeited Material Valued 

at $10,000 or Less on page 4-23.

NOTICE

If PPQ Form 626 is received prior to the completion of PPQ Form 627, then continue on to 

Procedures to Follow Upon Receipt of PPQ Form 626, Petition for Remission or Mitigation of 

Forfeiture on page 4-20

NOTICE

The seized material is now the property of the United States Government.
Violations, Seizures, and Forfeitures

Violations of CITES Regulations

4-18 CITES Timber Species Manual 04/2022-79

Procedures to Follow Upon Receipt of PPQ Form 625, Claim and Bond

If PPQ Form 625, Claim and Bond, is received by your office within 20 days 

after the date of posting, then do as follows:

1. Record in Block 6 of PPQ Form 624, Part 5-PPQ/CBP Port Worksheet, the 

date PPQ Form 625 is received.

2. Make a photocopy of PPQ Form 625 and retain the copy in your files.

3. Scan and E-mail the original PPQ Form 625 to the National CITES 

Coordinator:

E-mail: john.veremis@usda.gov 

Subject: PPQ Form 625, Claim and Bond

Attn: National CITES Coordinator 

(In the near future, you will be notified to send the actual document to 

Riverdale.)

The National CITES Coordinator will handle referral of PPQ Form 625 to 

the Deputy Administrator’s Office.

Continue to HOLD and safeguard the shipment. 

4. The forfeiture process is now transferred from an APHIS administrative 

procedure to the Office of the U.S. District Court in the State where the 

seizure was made. 

5. You will be notified by PPQ Headquarters of when to take custody of the 

seized or abandoned material. You may be asked to serve papers issued by 

the U.S. Marshals Service. 

6. Since PPQ Form 625 has been received, the administrative forfeiture 

procedure ceases; do not mail PPQ Form 627, Declaration of Forfeiture, 

to the owner.

7. If either PPQ Form 625 or PPQ Form 626 has been received, then do not

continue to Step 8: Start the Process for Disposal of Forfeited Material 

Valued at $10,000 or Less until you have been notified by PPQ 

Headquarters to do so.

8. If both PPQ Form 625 and PPQ Form 626 were not received or you have 

been notified by PPQ Headquarters to start the process for disposal, then 

NOTICE

If PPQ Form 625, Claim and Bond, was received by the PPQ Deputy Administrator’s Office, 

then you will be notified by PPQ Headquarters.

If the shipment is being stored at the port facility, then ask the proprietor if room is available to 

continue to store the shipment at no charge to DHS-CBP or USDA-PPQ (see Request for Services to Transport, Store, and/or Dispose of Shipments on page 4-14).
Violations, Seizures, and Forfeitures

Violations of CITES Regulations

04/2022-79 CITES Timber Species Manual 4-19

continue to Step 8: Start the Process for Disposal of Forfeited Material 

Valued at $10,000 or Less. 
Violations, Seizures, and Forfeitures

Violations of CITES Regulations

4-20 CITES Timber Species Manual 04/2022-79

Procedures to Follow Upon Receipt of PPQ Form 626, Petition for 

Remission or Mitigation of Forfeiture

If PPQ Form 626, Petition for Remission or Mitigation of Forfeiture, is 

received by your office, then do as follows: 

1. Record in Block 6 of your PPQ Form 624, Part 5-PPQ/CBP Port 

Worksheet, the date PPQ Form 626, Petition for Remission or Mitigation 

of Forfeiture is received.

2. MAKE a photocopy of PPQ Form 626 and retain the copy in your files.

3. Scan and send via e-mail, to the National CITES Coordinator:

E-mail john.veremis@usda.gov

Subject: PPQ Form 626, Petition for Remission or Mitigation of 

Forfeiture

Attn: National CITES Coordinator

(In the near future, you will be notified to send the original PPQ Form 626 

to Riverdale.)

The National CITES Coordinator will handle referral of PPQ Form 626 to 

the Deputy Administrator’s Office.

4. Continue to safeguard the seized or forfeited property.

5. A decision will be made by the Deputy Administrator to grant or deny the 

Petition for Remission or Mitigation of Forfeiture.

If PPQ Form 626 is received by the PPQ Deputy Administrator, then you will 

be notified by PPQ Headquarters.

NOTICE

If the shipment is being held at the port facility, then the CBP-AS or PPQ-PHSS, or PPQ-ECS 

must immediately contact the proprietor of the port facility and re-inquire if space is still 

available to continue to store the shipment at no charge to DHS-CBP and USDA-PPQ.

If storage fees apply or space is not available at the port facility, then to continue to safeguard 

and store the shipment at the port. Then complete a Request for Services to Store, Transport, 

and/or Dispose of Seized or Forfeited Shipments. 

NOTICE

Do not make arrangements to dispose of the material until you receive notification from PPQ 

Headquarters to do so. CBP or PPQ must continue to HOLD and safeguard the material until 

final notification. 
Violations, Seizures, and Forfeitures

Violations of CITES Regulations

04/2022-79 CITES Timber Species Manual 4-21

Table 4-13 PPQ Form 626, Petition for Remission or Mitigation of Forfeiture for Seizures Under $10,000 

Value 

If: And: And you: Then:

PPQ Form 626, 

Petition for Remission 

or Mitigation of 

Forfeiture

Has been received by 

your office 

1. RECORD in Block 6 of your PPQ 

Form 624, Part 5-PPQ/CBP Port 

Worksheet, the date PPQ Form 626 

is received

2. MAKE a photocopy of PPQ Form 

626 and retain the copy in your files

3. SCAN and SEND via E-mail, PPQ 

Form 626 to:

E-mail: john.veremis@usda.gov

Subject: PPQ Form 626, Petition for 

Remission or Mitigation of 

Forfeiture for Seizures 

Under $10,000 Value

Attn: National CITES Coordinator

(In the near future you will be 

notified to send the original

document to Riverdale.)

4. The National CITES Coordinator 

will handle referral of PPQ Form 

626 to the Deputy Administrator’s 

Office

5. CONTINUE to SAFEGUARD the 

seized or forfeited property. A 

decision will be made by the Deputy 

Administrator to grant or deny the 

Petition for Remission or Mitigation 

of Forfeiture

Has not been received 

in your office

CBP or PPQ must CONTINUE to 

SAFEGUARD the seized or 

forfeited property and CONTINUE with 

completing PPQ forms for seizures

PPQ Form 625 Claim 

and Bond is not

received by your office

PPQ Form 626, Petition 

for Remission or 

Mitigation of Forfeiture is 

received in your office

PPQ Form 627, 

Declaration of 

Forfeiture has not

been issued by your 

office

1. MODIFY Block 6 of PPQ Form 627, 

Declaration of Forfeiture by adding, 

“A decision will be made pursuant 

to review of the received Petition for 

Remission or Mitigation by the Deputy Administrator.”

2. ISSUE the PPQ Form 627, 

Declaration of Forfeiture

3. CBP or PPQ must continue to 

SAFEGUARD the material until a 

final decision is made by the 

Deputy Administrator to grant or 

deny the petition

Your office has already 

issued PPQ Form 627

CBP or PPQ must CONTINUE to 

SAFEGUARD the seized or 

forfeited property and CONTINUE with 

completing PPQ forms for seizures
Violations, Seizures, and Forfeitures

Violations of CITES Regulations

4-22 CITES Timber Species Manual 04/2022-79

Step 7: Await Court Decision for Seized or Forfeited Material 

Valued Greater Than $10,000

1. Proceedings for seizures valued greater than $10,000 are forwarded to the 

U.S. Attorney’s office in the State where the seizure occurred. Disposition 

of the seized material is decided upon by the U.S. District Court. 

Depending on case load, the judicial forfeiture process can take several 

months or longer.

2. If the District Court rules in favor of the Agency that made the seizure, then 

the seized material becomes the property of the U.S. Government, and can 

be disposed of. In most cases after the U.S. District Court makes their 

ruling, the forfeiture process is transferred to the U.S. Marshal’s Service. 

The U.S. Marshals Service (not CBP or PPQ) finalizes custody and 

disposal of the forfeited material. You may be asked to serve papers issued 

by the U.S. Marshals Service. 

NOTICE

If the shipment is being held at the port facility, then the CBP-AS or PPQ-PHSS, or PPQ-ECS 

must immediately contact the proprietor of the port facility and re-inquire if space is still 

available to continue to store the shipment at no charge to DHS-CBP and USDA-PPQ.

If storage fees apply or space is not available at the port facility, then to continue to safeguard 

and store the shipment at the port. Then complete a Request for Services to Store, Transport, 

and/or Dispose of Seized or Forfeited Shipments. See instructions for Distribution of Request 

for Services to Transport, Store, and/or Dispose of Seized or Forfeited Shipments on page 

A-6.
Violations, Seizures, and Forfeitures

Violations of CITES Regulations

04/2022-79 CITES Timber Species Manual 4-23

Step 8: Start the Process for Disposal of Forfeited Material 

Valued at $10,000 or Less

Seized material becomes the property of the U.S. Government 21 days after 

PPQ Form 624, Notice for Seizure and Proposed Forfeiture of Property Valued 

at $10,000 or Less, is posted. 

Sixty days after the forfeited material becomes U.S. Government property, 

CITES Appendix II and Appendix III material is routinely sold at auction. 

Forfeited CITES Appendix I material cannot be sold, 

Since forfeited Appendix I material must be disposed of by other means, 

contact the PPQ National CITES Specialist, Timothy Torbett, e-mail 

timothy.j.torbett@usda.gov, or the National CITES Coordinator, John Veremis, 

e-mail john.veremis@usda.gov, to discuss disposal options. 

Request Transport, Storage, and Disposal of Forfeited Material 

Complete and send a Request for Services to Transport, Store, and/or Dispose 

of Seized or Forfeited Shipments for forfeited CITES Appendix I, Appendix II, 

and Appendix III, as follows:

1. Fill out a Request for Services to Transport, Store, and/or Dispose of 

Seized or Forfeited Shipments. (See the example Request for Services to 

Transport, Store, and/or Dispose of Seized or Forfeited Shipments on page 

A-4.)

2. Note whether there is space available to continue to store the forfeited 

material for approximately 60 more days and the daily storage charge. (If 

you have not already done so, then contact the port facility where the 

shipment is being stored to obtain this information.) 

3. If the shipment is already being held in contract storage, then do not 

complete another Request for Services to Store, Transport, and/or Dispose 

of Seized or Forfeited Shipments as the National CITES Coordinator will 

use the initial form. 

4. Send via e-mail, the completed Request for Services to Store, Transport, 

and/or Dispose of Seized or Forfeited Shipments to the National CITES 

Coordinator:

E-mail: john.veremis@usda.gov

Subject: Request for Services to Store, Transport, and/or Dispose of 

Seized or Forfeited Shipments

Attn: National CITES Coordinator
Violations, Seizures, and Forfeitures

Violations of CITES Regulations

4-24 CITES Timber Species Manual 04/2022-79

5. The contractor will contact the CBP or PPQ Point-of-Contact Officer to 

schedule an appointment to have the loading of the forfeited material 

supervised.
Violations, Seizures, and Forfeitures

Maintenance of CITES Documents

04/2022-79 CITES Timber Species Manual 4-25

Maintenance of CITES Documents

The CBP Agriculture Specialists, PPQ Plant Health Safeguarding Specialists, 

or PPQ Export Certification Specialists at the port should file and maintain 

associated CITES documents for the following reasons:

Facilitate a civil or criminal proceeding

Give immediate access to prior actions taken on seized material (in case 

you are asked questions about a particular action)

Identify repeat offenders

Filing System for Violations, Seizures, and Forfeitures

To set up a filing system for violations, seizures, and forfeitures paperwork, 

use the following process:

1. Give each shipment found in violation of the legislation a separate file.

2. Label each file by first listing your port name, then the last two digits of the 

year followed by a hyphen, then the seizure number. The seizure number 

starts with 01 for the first seizure of the year. Each subsequent seizure will 

be numbered consecutively. 

3. Place Part 5-PPQ/CBP Port Worksheet, of PPQ Form 624, Notice for 

Seizure and Proposed Forfeiture of Property Valued at $10,000 or Less, in 

the front of each file and update as necessary. 

4. Add all applicable forms, such as the following:

PPQ Form 623, Waiver of Forfeiture Procedures by Owner of Seized 

Property (if used)

PPQ Form 625, Claim and Bond (if used)

PPQ Form 626, Petition for Remission or Mitigation of Forfeiture (if 

used)

PPQ Form 627, Declaration of Forfeiture (if used)

Other relevant documents (i.e., Officer’s Statement)

Retain each file for 5 years after the last documented action is taken.

EXAMPLE The Port of Miami’s first file for 2015 would be 15-01.

The second file for 2015 would be numbered 15-02.
Violations, Seizures, and Forfeitures

Maintenance of CITES Documents

4-26 CITES Timber Species Manual 04/2022-79
11/2022-81 CITES Timber Species Manual 5-1

Chapter

5 Designated CITES Ports 

Plant Inspection Stations CITES Staff

Contents

Introduction 5-1

Designated CITES Ports and Plant Inspection Stations CITES Staff 5-1

Introduction

The Designated CITES Ports chapter contains the list of CITES ports through 

which CITES commodities may be imported, exported, or re-exported.

Designated CITES Ports and Plant Inspection Stations CITES Staff

Some ports and plant inspection stations can only certify specific CITES 

commodities, which are listed under the CITES Commodity column in 

Table 5-1.

Table 5-1 Designated PPQ CITES Ports Directory 

State CITES 

Commodity Address Phone and Fax Designated Staff

Alabama Logs and 

lumber 

and all other 

regulated 

CITES timber 

products

USDA-APHIS-PPQ-SPHD

ATTN: CITES Mobile, AL Work 

Unit

505 Russell Street

Starkville, MS 39759

Ph: 251/331-2497 Jeffrey Lasiter

PHSS

Ph: 251/331-3757 Chalin Street

PHSS

Ph: 251/331-9307 Gary Youngblood

PHSS

Arizona All CITES 

regulated 

plants, plant 

parts, and 

derivatives

USDA-APHIS-PPQ

Plant Inspection Station

200 N. Mariposa Road, B-500 

Nogales, AZ 85621

Ph: 520/285-5408

Fax: 520/287-2117

Dustin Sandberg

Plant Pathologist/

Botanist
Designated CITES Ports

Designated CITES Ports and Plant Inspection Stations CITES Staff

5-2 CITES Timber Species Manual 11/2022-81

California All CITES 

regulated 

plants, plant 

parts, and 

derivatives

USDA-APHIS-PPQ

Los Angeles Plant Inspection 

Station

222 Kansas Street

El Segundo, CA 90245

Ph: 310/955-3277 

Fax: 310/321-0035

Jamal Al-Henaid 

Botanist/

Area Identifier 

specializing in CITES 

wood identification

Ph: 562/628-8900 

Long Beach

Kristen Fox

Botanist (Long Beach)

All CITES 

regulated 

plants, plant 

parts, and 

derivatives

USDA-APHIS-PPQ

Plant Inspection Station

9795 Via De La Amistad

San Diego, CA 92154

Ph: 619/661-3029

Fax: 619/661-3047

Michael Meadows 

Botanist

All CITES 

regulated 

plants, plant 

parts, and 

derivatives 

USDA-APHIS-PPQ

Plant Inspection Station

560 Eccles Ave. 

South San Francisco, CA 94080

Ph: 650/876-9093

Fax: 650/876-9008

Tim Torbett

Botanist/

National CITES 

Specialist

Shannon Jarman 

Botanist

Florida Logs and 

lumber 

and all other 

regulated 

CITES timber 

products

USDA-APHIS-PPQ

1800 Eller Drive, Suite 414

Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316

Ph: 954/356-7080

Fax: 954/356-7113

George Robinson 

PHSS

Sonia Hernandez 

PHSS

Logs and 

lumber 

and all other 

regulated 

CITES timber 

products

USDA-APHIS-PPQ

Plant Inspection Station

2431 St. John’s Bluff Road South

Suite 119

Jacksonville, FL 32246

Ph: 904/620-9501

Fax: 904/620-9496

L. Oscar Vazquez 

PHSS

All CITES 

regulated 

plants, plant 

parts, and 

derivatives

Deliveries:

USDA-APHIS-PPQ

Plant Inspection Station

6302 NW 36 Street

Miami, FL 33122

Regular USPS Mail:

USDA-APHIS-PPQ

Plant Inspection Station

PO Box 660520

Miami, FL 33266

Ph: 305/492-1854

Fax: 305/492-1742

Leo Castaneda 

Botanist/

Area Identifier 

specializing in CITES 

wood identification

All CITES 

regulated 

plants, plant 

parts, and 

derivatives

USDA-APHIS-PPQ

Plant Inspection Station

3951 Centerport Street

Orlando, FL 32827

Ph: 407/541-6715

Fax: 407/541-6729

VACANT

Plant Pathologist

Table 5-1 Designated PPQ CITES Ports Directory (continued)

State CITES 

Commodity Address Phone and Fax Designated Staff
Designated CITES Ports

Designated CITES Ports and Plant Inspection Stations CITES Staff

11/2022-81 CITES Timber Species Manual 5-3

Georgia All CITES 

regulated 

plants, plant 

parts, and 

derivatives

USDA-APHIS-PPQ

Plant Inspection Station

1220 Toffie Terrace

Atlanta, GA 30354

Ph: 404/260-7844

Fax: 404/260-7832

Mike Creller

Botanist

Logs and 

lumber 

and all other 

regulated 

CITES timber 

products

USDA-APHIS-PPQ

5514 Export Blvd.

Garden City, GA 31408-9759

Ph: 912/964-4212

Fax: 912/964-9142

Stephen Davis, OIC

Phil Boyd-Robinson, 

PHSS

Tim Brackney

PHSS

Wally Harrington, 

PHSS

Guam All CITES 

regulated 

plants, plant 

parts, and 

derivatives

USDA-APHIS-PPQ

Plant Inspection Station

17-3306 Neptune Avenue

Barrigada, GU 96913

Ph: 671/475-1427

Fax: 671/477-9487

Russell Campbell

Entomologist

Hawaii Orchids 

Export and 

re-export only

USDA-APHIS-PPQ

Hilo International Airport

Hilo, HI 96720

Ph: 808/933-9040

Fax: 808/933-9050

Julie Ann Yogi-Chun 

Port Director

Vincent Chun

SPPQO

All CITES 

regulated 

plants, plant 

parts, and 

derivatives

USDA-APHIS-PPQ

Honolulu Plant Inspection Station

Daniel K. Inouye International 

Airport (HNL)

300 Rodgers Blvd., #58

Honolulu, HI 96819

Ph: 808/834-3240

Fax: 808/861-8500 

Mark Towata

Botanist

Illinois Ginseng roots 

and goldenseal;

Orchids 

Export and 

re-export;

and all other 

regulated 

CITES timber 

products

USDA-APHIS-PPQ

2300 E. Devon, Suite 222

Des Plaines, IL 60018

Ph: 847/699-2418

Fax: 847/699-2429

Jeffrey Coath

PHSS

Scot Saiki

PHSS

Table 5-1 Designated PPQ CITES Ports Directory (continued)

State CITES 

Commodity Address Phone and Fax Designated Staff
Designated CITES Ports

Designated CITES Ports and Plant Inspection Stations CITES Staff

5-4 CITES Timber Species Manual 11/2022-81

Maryland Ginseng roots 

and goldenseal 

Logs and 

lumber 

and all other 

regulated 

CITES timber 

products

USDA-APHIS-PPQ

2200 Broening Highway, 

Suite 102

Baltimore, MD 21224

Ph: 410/288-5541

Fax: 410/288-5542

Matthew Travis

SPHD

Michigan Imports of all 

Canadian origin 

CITES 

regulated 

plants, plant 

parts, and 

derivatives

Export of all 

CITES 

regulated plants 

destined to 

Canada 

USDA-APHIS-PPQ

11200 Metro Airport Center Drive

Suite 140

Romulus, MI 48174

Exports via Detroit and Port 

Huron

Ph: 734/942-9005

Fax: 734/942-7691

Brian Sullivan

PHSS 

Mississippi Logs and 

lumber 

and all other 

regulated 

CITES timber 

products

USDA-APHIS-PPQ-SPHD

ATTN: CITES Gulfport Work Unit 

505 Russell Street 

Starkville, MS 39759 

Ph: 228/669-6503 Beth Ann (Lutz) 

MacDonald

PHSS 

Beth.A.Lotz@usda.g

ov

Ph: 228/223-1207 Don Haynes

PHSS

Donald.W.Haynes@

usda.gov

Missouri Ginseng roots 

and goldenseal 

and all other 

regulated 

CITES timber 

products

USDA-APHIS-PPQ

4300 Goodfellow Blvd. Bldg 102E

St. Louis, MO 63074

Ph: 314/389-8420

Fax: 314/389-7640

Brenda Hutchins 

PHSS

Paul Cooper

Larry Trevathan 

PHSS

New Jersey All CITES 

regulated 

plants, plant 

parts, and 

derivatives

USDA-APHIS-PPQ

Plant Inspection Station

1500 Lower Road 

Linden, NJ 07036 

Covers the Port of New York; 

Elizabeth, NJ; and Newark, NJ

Ph: 908/986-9211 

Fax 908/523-0148 

Ana Margina

Botanist

Table 5-1 Designated PPQ CITES Ports Directory (continued)

State CITES 

Commodity Address Phone and Fax Designated Staff
Designated CITES Ports

Designated CITES Ports and Plant Inspection Stations CITES Staff

11/2022-81 CITES Timber Species Manual 5-5

New York Imports of all 

Canadian origin 

CITES 

regulated 

plants, plant 

parts, and 

derivatives

Exports of all 

CITES 

regulated plants 

destined to 

Canada 

USDA-APHIS-PPQ

1 Peace Bridge Plaza, Suite 204

Buffalo, NY 14213

Ph: 716/249-3366

FAX:716/886-1762

Barry Wilkins

PHSS

barry.wilkins@usda.go

v

Exports of logs 

and lumber and 

all other CITES 

regulated 

timber products 

destined to 

Canada 

USDA-APHIS-PPQ

6006 Sentinel Road

Lake Placid, NY 12946

Exports for Champlain

Ph: 518/420-9779

Fax: 518/523-8088

Thomas Colarusso 

ECS

All CITES 

regulated 

plants, plant 

parts, and 

derivatives

USDA-APHIS-PPQ

JFK Plant Inspection Station

230-59 International Airport 

 Centers Blvd., 

Bldg. C, Suite 100, Room 109

Jamaica, NY 11413

Ph: 718/553-3511 

Fax: 718/553-3510

Keith Clancy

Botanist

North 

Carolina

Ginseng roots 

and goldenseal 

and all other 

regulated 

CITES timber 

products

USDA-APHIS-PPQ

1809-C Associates Lane

Charlotte, NC 28217

Ph: 704/424-1014

Fax: 704/357-1667

Alyson Bendzinski 

PHSS

Logs and 

lumber 

and all other 

regulated 

CITES timber 

products

Venus flytrap 

export only

USDA-APHIS-PPQ

1815 Gardner Drive

Wilmington, NC 28405

Ph: 910/815-4678

Fax: 910/815-4964

Catherine Wills

PHSS 

Timothy Stevens, 

PHSS

Sheena Goundie, 

PHSS 

Oregon Logs and 

lumber 

and all other 

regulated 

CITES timber 

products

USDA-APHIS-PPQ

6035 NE 78th Court, Suite 100

Portland, OR 97218

Also handles Vancouver, WA

Ph: 503/820-2742 VACANT

Plant Pathologist

Table 5-1 Designated PPQ CITES Ports Directory (continued)

State CITES 

Commodity Address Phone and Fax Designated Staff
Designated CITES Ports

Designated CITES Ports and Plant Inspection Stations CITES Staff

5-6 CITES Timber Species Manual 11/2022-81

Pennsylvania Logs and 

lumber 

and all other 

regulated 

CITES timber 

products

USDA-APHIS-PPQ

Navy Yard Corporate Center

3 Crescent Drive, Suite 405

Philadelphia, PA 19112

Ph: 215/218-4971

Fax: 215/218-4974

Stacey Boyd 

Entomologist

Bruce Cahan

OIC

Puerto Rico All CITES 

regulated 

plants, plant 

parts, and 

derivatives 

USDA-APHIS-PPQ

Plant Inspection Station

150 Central Sector

Bldg. C2, Warehouse #3

Carolina, PR 00979

Ph: 787/253-7850

Fax: 787/253-4514

Rockny Perez 

Entomologist

Bryan Petty

Entomologist

Stephanie Fuentes

Plant Pathologist

South 

Carolina

Logs and 

lumber 

and all other 

regulated 

CITES timber 

products

USDA-APHIS-PPQ

4600 Goer Drive, Suite 104

North Charleston, SC 29406

Ph: 843/480-4334 Jonathan Gagnon 

PHSS

Texas All CITES 

regulated 

plants, plant 

parts, and 

derivatives 

USDA-APHIS-PPQ

Houston Plant Inspection Station

19581 Lee Road

Humble, TX 77338

Ph: 281/982-9543

Fax: 281/982-9550

Norma Diaz

Botanist

Logs and 

lumber 

and all other 

regulated 

CITES timber 

products

USDA-APHIS-PPQ

120 San Francisco Bridge II 

Complex, Bldg. 5, Room 505

Laredo, TX 78040

Ph: 956/726-2225 

 xt 29

Fax: 956/726-2322

Willis Gentry

Botanist/

Plant Pathologist

All CITES 

regulated 

plants, plant 

parts, and 

derivatives 

Deliveries:

USDA-APHIS-PPQ

Plant Inspection Station

100 Los Indios Blvd.

Los Indios, TX 78567

Regular Mail:

USDA-APHIS-PPQ

Plant Inspection Station

P.O. Drawer Box 399

Los Indios, TX 78567

Ph: 956/399-2085

Fax: 956/399-4001

Elias Gonzalez

OIC

Oscar Mireless 

Botanist/

Plant Pathologist

Virginia Logs and 

lumber 

and all other 

regulated 

CITES timber 

products

USDA-APHIS-PPQ

200 Granby Street, Room 331

Norfolk, VA 23510-1811

Ph: 757/441-3211

Fax: 757/441-3646

Karen Williams

OIC

Table 5-1 Designated PPQ CITES Ports Directory (continued)

State CITES 

Commodity Address Phone and Fax Designated Staff
Designated CITES Ports

Designated CITES Ports and Plant Inspection Stations CITES Staff

11/2022-81 CITES Timber Species Manual 5-7

Washington Imports of all 

Canadian origin 

CITES 

regulated 

plants, plant 

parts, and 

derivatives

Export of all 

CITES 

regulated plants 

destined to 

Canada 

USDA-APHIS-PPQ

Pacific Highway Border Crossing

9901 Pacific Highway, 

Room E202

Blaine, WA 98230

Ph: 360/332-1766

Fax: 360/332-1395

Stacy Herron

PHSS

All CITES 

regulated 

plants, plant 

parts, and 

derivatives

USDA-APHIS-PPQ

Plant Inspection Station

835 South 192nd St.

Bldg. C, Suite 1600

SeaTac, WA 98148

Ph: 206/878-6604

Fax: 206/870-8043

Michael Kirkpatrick 

Botanist 

Wisconsin Ginseng roots 

and goldenseal 

and all other 

regulated 

CITES timber 

products

USDA-APHIS-PPQ

1 Gifford Pinchot Drive, Suite 229

Madison, WI 53726

Ph: 608/286/3604

Fax: 608/231-9581

Ellen Natzke

PHSS 

Table 5-1 Designated PPQ CITES Ports Directory (continued)

State CITES 

Commodity Address Phone and Fax Designated Staff
Designated CITES Ports

Designated CITES Ports and Plant Inspection Stations CITES Staff

5-8 CITES Timber Species Manual 11/2022-81
04/2022-80 CITES Timber Species Manual 6-1

Chapter

6

CBP AI CITES Port 

Contacts 

CITES Related Matters

Contents

Introduction 6-1

CBP AI Port Contacts for CITES Related Matters 6-2

Introduction

The CBP AI CITES Port Contacts chapter contains the list of Customs and 

Border Protection (CBP) Agricultural Inspection (AI) port contacts for CITESrelated matters. 
CBP AI CITES Port Contacts

CBP AI Port Contacts for CITES Related Matters

6-2 CITES Timber Species Manual 04/2022-80

CBP AI Port Contacts for CITES Related Matters

Table 6-1 CBP-Designated Points of Contacts for CITES 

CBP Field 

Office Port Address CBP CITES POC Phone /Fax/Email

Atlanta Atlanta, GA 157 Trade Port Drive

Atlanta, GA 30354

Gloria 

WeddingtonWalker

Ph: 404-675-1291

Fax: 404-672-1282

gloria.c.weddington@cbp.dh

s.gov 

Charleston, SC 200 East Bay Street

Charleston, SC 29401

Dean Duval Ph: 843-764-9420

Fax: 843-760-5561

dean.duval@cpb.dhs.gov

Charlotte, NC 1901 Cross Bean Drive

Charlotte, NC 28217

Susan Mantooth Ph:980-235-1600 

Fax: 980-235-1608

susan.a.mantooth@cbp.dhs

.gov

Norfolk, VA 101 East Main Street

Norfolk, VA 23510

Tollie Gilliam Ph: 757-533-4237

Fax: 757-533-4288

tollie.b.gilliam@dbp.dhs.gov

Raleigh, NC 2400 John Brantely 

Morrisville, NC 27560

Brenda Britt Ph: 919-674-3400

Fax: 919-674-3401

brenda.s.britt@cbp.dhs.gov

Savannah, GA 1 East Bay Street

Savannah, GA 31402

Robert Crowther Ph: 912-232-7507

Fax: 912-964-7492

robert.crowther@cbp.dhs.go

v

Wilmington, NC 721 Medical Center Drive

Wilmington, NC 28401

Jim Kelley Ph: 910-772-5900

Fax: 910-772-5907

jim.b.kelley@cbp.dhs.gov

Baltimore Baltimore, MD 40 South Gay Street, 

Room 110

Baltimore, MD 21202

Rena Cruz Ph: 410-962-9306 ext. 101

rena.m.cruz@cbp.dhs.gov

Philadelphia, PA 200 Chestnut Street

Room 102

Philadelphia, PA 19106

Joanne Coughlin Ph: 856-742-3235

Fax: 856-742-1295

joanne.r.coughlin@cbp.dhs.

gov

Washington Dulles 22685 Holiday Park Drive

Suite 15

Sterling, VA 20598

Christopher 

Brewer

Ph: 703-661-2872

christopher.s.brewer@cbp.d

hs.gov
CBP AI CITES Port Contacts

CBP AI Port Contacts for CITES Related Matters

04/2022-80 CITES Timber Species Manual 6-3

Buffalo Buffalo Field Office 300 Airborne Parkway

Suite 300

Buffalo, NY 14225

Douglas Zahno Ph: 716-626-6470

Fax: 716-626-7626

douglas.f.zahno@cbp.dhs.g

ov

Buffalo, NY 1 Peace Bridge Plaza

Buffalo, NY 14213

Brent Speicher Ph: 716-888-4945

Fax: 716-888-5679

brent.j.speicher@cbp.dhs.g

ov

Paula Schaub Ph: 716-888-4947

Fax: 716-888-5679

paula.m.schaub@cbp.dhs.g

ov

Champlain, NY 237 West Service Road 

I-87

Champlain, NY 12919

Shane Needle Ph: 518-298-7216

Fax: 518-298-8315

shane.m.needle@cbp.dhs.g

ov

Chicago Chicago, IL 5600 Pearl Street

Rosemont, IL 60018

Katy Houlmont Ph: 847-928-5711

Fax: 847-928-8252

katy.houlmont@cbp.dhs.gov

St. Louis, MO 4349 Woodson Road

Suite 201

St. Louis, MO 63134

Angela Vitale Ph: 314-429-8103

Fax: 314-428-2889

angela.vitale@cbp.dhs.gov

Milwaukee, WI 4915 S. Howell Ave.

Suite 200

Milwaukee, WI 53207

Karen Sperry Ph: 414-486-7790 xt. 2015

Fax: 414-486-7819

karen.k.sperry@cbp.dhs.go

v

Detroit Port of Detroit 

Land Border

2810 West Fort Street

Detroit, MI 48216

CBP Agriculture 

Supervisor

Ph:313-964-7244

Fax: 313-964-7653

ag.sup.port.3801@cbp.dhs.

gov

Port Huron 2321 Pine Grove Ave.

Port Huron, MI 48060

Melanie Lobaido Ph: 810-989-8816

Cell: 313-409-3918

melanie.j.lobaido@cbp.dhs.

gov

Theresa Helfrich Ph: 810-989-8816

Cell: 313-421-6152

theresa.helfrich@cbp.dhs.g

ov

Sault. Ste. Marie 900 International Bridge

Sault St. Marie, MI 49783

Todd White Ph: 906-632-8822 xt 2047

Fax: 906-632-6171

todd.c.white@cbp.dhs.gov

Romulus

Detroit Airport

2596 World Gateway 

Place, Bldg. 830

Detroit, MI 48242

Linda Denski Ph: 734-941-8695

linda.denski@cbp.dhs.gov

Table 6-1 CBP-Designated Points of Contacts for CITES (continued)

CBP Field 

Office Port Address CBP CITES POC Phone /Fax/Email
CBP AI CITES Port Contacts

CBP AI Port Contacts for CITES Related Matters

6-4 CITES Timber Species Manual 04/2022-80

El Paso El Paso Field 

Office

9400 Viscount Blvd

El Paso, TX 79925

Katherine 

Vasquez

Ph: 915-730-7208

Fax: 915-633-7392

katherine.l.basquez@cbp.d

hs.gov

El Paso Port 3600 E. Paisano Drive

El Paso, TX 79905

Chad Gerber Ph: 915-730-7037

chad.gerber@cbp.dhs.gov

Houston Houston Seaport 7141 Office City Drive

Houston, TX 77087

Kenneth Western Ph: 281-842-0302

Fax: 281-474-1331

kenneth.w.western@cbp.dh

s.gov

Houston Airport 2350 N. Sam Houston 

Parkway E. #1000

Houston, TX 77032

Dawn Blake Ph: 281-230-4616

Fax: 832-549-6946 

dawn.blake@cbp.dhs.

gov

Dallas/Ft. Worth 7501 Esters Blvd.

Suite 160

Irving, TX 75063

Shannon Herrell Ph: 214-587-2019

shannon.herrell@cbp.dhs.g

ov

dfwagriculturemanagers@c

bp.dhs.gov

Laredo Laredo, TX World Trade Bridge 

715 Bob Bullock Loop

Room 25

Laredo, TX 78045

David R. 

Gonzales

Ph: 956-794-9463

Fax: 956-723-0923

david.r.gonzalez@cbp.dhs.g

ov

Brownsville, TX Los Tomates (Veterans) 

Bridge

3300 South Expressway 

77/83

Brownsville, TX 78520

Donald Cadriel Ph: 956-983-5808

Fax: 956-983-5837

donald.h.cadriel@cbp.dhs.g

ov

Los 

Angeles

Los Angeles Int’l 

Airport

11099 S. La Cienega 

Blvd.

Los Angeles, CA 90045

Kasey Phillips Ph: 310-348-4694

Fax: 310-215-2166

kasey.c.phillips@cbp.dhs.go

v

Long Beach FCL Warehouse 

23011 S. Wilmington Ave.

Carson, CA 90745

Tiffany Lui Ph: 310-223-2737 xt. 508

Fax: 310-637-9303

tiffany.l.liu@cbp,dhs.gov

Miami Miami/Tampa Field 

Office

Miami 909 SE 1 Ave., 

Suite 968

Miami, FL 33133

Agriculture 

Operation 

Manager

Ph: 305-810-5120

mtfo-agprograms@cbp.dhs. 

gov

Table 6-1 CBP-Designated Points of Contacts for CITES (continued)

CBP Field 

Office Port Address CBP CITES POC Phone /Fax/Email
CBP AI CITES Port Contacts

CBP AI Port Contacts for CITES Related Matters

04/2022-80 CITES Timber Species Manual 6-5

New 

Orleans

New Orleans 6101 Terminal Drive

Bldg. 14

New Orleans, LA 70115

Jessica Smith Ph: 504-896-7700

Fax: 504-896-7713

jessica.smith@cbp.dhs.gov

Gulfport, MS 14108 Customs Blvd. 

Gulfport, MS 39503

Germond Jupiter Ph: 228-863-6350 xt. 232

Fax: 228-863-6563

germand.jupiter@cbp.dhs.g

ov

Mobile, AL 150 North Royal Street

Mobile, AL 36602

Michael B. 

Douglas

Ph: 251-378-7610

Fax: 251-378-7679

michael.b.douglas@cbp.dhs

.gov

Memphis, TN 2813 Business Park

Bldg. 1 

Memphis, TN 38118

Nancy King Ph: 901-797-4276

Fax: 901-480-4093

nancy.e.king@cbp.dhs.gov 

New York New York/Newark 1210 Corbin Street

Port Elizabeth, NJ 07201

Ruth Wild Ph: 973-424-5828

Fax: 973-424-5830

ruth.a.wild@cbp.dhs.gov

JFK Int’l Airport JFK Airport Bldg. 77

Room M46

Jamaica, NY 11430

Fred Skolnick Ph: 718-487-5281

fred.skolnick@cbp.dhs.gov

Paul Gunther Ph:718-487-5281

paul.g.gunther@cbp.dhs.go

v

San Diego San Diego FO 720 East San Ysidro Blvd.

San Diego, CA 92173

Leslie GomezMontezPh: 619-744-5207

leslie.d.gomezmontez@cbp.dhs.gov

Otay Mesa 9777 Via de la Amistad

San Diego, CA 92154

Tina Vargas Ph: 619-671-8184

Fax: 619-661-9714

tina.m.vargas@cbp.dhs.gov

San 

Francisco

Oakland/San 

Francisco

700 Maritime Street

Oakland, CA 94607

John Machado Ph: 510-318-7040

john.e.machado@cbp.dhs.g

ov

Honolulu, HI 300 Ala Moana Blvd.

Room 2500

Honolulu, HI 96850

Rebecca Chong Ph: 808-356-4178

Fax: 808-356-4185

rebecca.c.chong@cbp.dhs.

gov

Portland, OR 8337 NE Alderwood 

Road

Portland, OR 97220

Christopher 

Johnson

Ph: 503-326-2721

Fax: 503-326-2722

christopher.l.johnson@cbp.d

hs.gov

San Juan San Juan, PR

St. Thomas, VI

St. Croix, VI

City Plaza II Suite 3000

#48 Rd. 165 KM

Guaynabo, PR 00698

Lynette Negron Ph: 787-729-6950

Fax: 787-749-4454

lynette.negron@cbp.dhs.go

v

Table 6-1 CBP-Designated Points of Contacts for CITES (continued)

CBP Field 

Office Port Address CBP CITES POC Phone /Fax/Email
CBP AI CITES Port Contacts

CBP AI Port Contacts for CITES Related Matters

6-6 CITES Timber Species Manual 04/2022-80

Seattle Seattle 7 S. Nevada Street

Seattle, WA 98134

Thomas Ray Ph: 206-553-2400

thomas.s.ray@cbp.dhs.gov

Blaine 9901 Pacific Hwy

Blaine, WA 98230

Scott Robinson Ph: 360-332-2674

Fax: 360-332-1452

scott.t.robinson@cbp.dhs.g

ov

Sumas 103 Cherry Street

Sumas, WA 98295

Charles Zins Ph: 360-988-2971 ext. 2211

Fax: 360-988-6300

charles.j.zins@cbp.dhs.gov

Tucson Tucson 4740 N. Oracle Road 

‘Suite 116

Tucson, AZ 85705

Tracy Vivanco Ph: 520-407-2305

Fax: 520-407-2374

tracy.l.vivanco@cbp.dhs.gov

Table 6-1 CBP-Designated Points of Contacts for CITES (continued)

CBP Field 

Office Port Address CBP CITES POC Phone /Fax/Email
02/2023-82 CITES Timber Species Manual 7-1

Chapter

7 CITES Timber Species 

Common Names

Contents

Introduction 7-1

List of Common Names for CITES Appendix I, Appendix II, and Appendix III 

Timber Species 7-1

Introduction

This chapter includes a list of common names for CITES timber species. For 

additional common names, please see Species+.

List of Common Names for CITES Appendix I, Appendix II, and 

Appendix III Timber Species

Table 7-1 List of Common Names for CITES Appendix I, Appendix II, and Appendix III Timber Species

Scientific Name Common Name Other Common Names

Abies guatemalensis Guatemalan fir abeto mexicano, guayami, Mexican fir, pinabete, 

plumajatzin, plumajillo de montaña, sapin de Guatemala

Adansonia grandidieri Giant baobab

Afzelia spp. pod mahogany

Aniba rosaeodora Brazilian rosewood bois de Rosenholzbaum, legno di rose, pau-rosa, palo de 

rosa, rosewood tree

Araucaria araucana monkey puzzle tree apeboom, araucaria du Chile, Chilean pine, chilensk tall, 

Chili pine, Chili tall, Chilie pine, parana pine, pehuen, pilon, 

pin du Chili, pino, pino araucaria, pino de Chile, pino de 

Neuquén, pino de Paraná, piñonero, piñón, sapin du Chili 

Bulnesia sarmientoi gaiacwood bois de gaic, gaiacwood, guajakhoz, guajaco, guajakholz, 

guayacan, palo balsamo, palo santo, Paraguay-lignum-vitae, 

true guaiac

Caryocar costaricense ajillo aji, ajo, almendrillo, almendro, almendro de bajo, almendron, 

cagui, firme, genenè, manu, maqui-maqui cagui, pequia, 

pequia brava, pete rana do terra firme, petè, pete-rana, 

plomillo, rana do terra, swari 

Cedrela spp. cedrela Central American cedar, cedro, cigar box cedar, rose cedar, 

Spanish cedar
CITES Timber Species Common Names

List of Common Names for CITES Appendix I, Appendix II, and Appendix III Timber Species

7-2 CITES Timber Species Manual 02/2023-82

Dalbergia spp. rosewoods Madagasy rosewoods

Dalbergia nigra Brazilian rosewood

Diospyros spp. ebonies

Dipteryx panamensis almendro, tonka bean almendra, almendro de montaña, amans, choiba, eboe, îbu, 

iqua, Indian almond, sarrapia, tonca, yapo

Fitzroya cupressoides alerce alerzcholz, fitzroy cypress, lahuan, patagonian cypress

Fraxinus mandshurica manchurian ash

Gonystylus spp. ramin ampudji, gaharu, gaheu, gara buaja, kaya garu, 

lanutanbagio,medang keran, melawis, ramin telur, sang su, 

seriangun

Guaiacum spp. lignum vitae auayacan, palo santo

Guibourtia demeusei African rosewood, 

red bubinga

Cameroons gum copal, Congo copal, ebana 

Guibourtia pellegriniana rose bubinga

Guibourtia tessmannii rose bubinga jattebubinga

Khaya spp. African mahogany

Magnolia liliifera

var. obovata

magnolia balukhat, baranthuri,boramthuri, champak, giogi, harré, 

safan, siffo, taungme

Oreomunnea pterocarpa gavilan campana, engelhardia pterocarpa, gavilán blanco

Osyris lanceolata African sandalwood

Paubrasilia echinata Brazilwood brasileto, ibirapitanga, orabutã, pau-Brasil, pau-depernambuco, pau-pernambuco, pau-rosado, peachwood, 

pernambuco-wood

Pericopsis elata afrormosia anyeran, asamela, assamela, assemela, awawai, ayin, 

baracara, benin satinwood, bohala, bohalala, bonsamdua, 

devils tree, egbi, ejen, golden afrormosia, iatobahy do igapo, 

kokriki, kokrodua, liguminosae, mekoe, mohole. obang, ole, 

olel pardo, peonio, redbark, satinwood, tento, wahala, yellow 

satinwood

Pilgerodendron uviferum Pilgerodendron Chilean cedar, ciprés, ciprés de Chile, ciprés de 

Cordillera,ciprés de las Islas Len, cipresso del Cile, cyprès 

du Chili, lahuan, lanutanbagio, libocedri dell’america 

meridion, patagonian cypress, patagonian pilgerodendron, 

ten, thuja tetragona, 

Pinus koraiensis Korean pine borovica kórejská, borovice korejskã, channamu, hong song, 

Korea-Kiefer, Koreai fenyõ, pin de Corée 

Table 7-1 List of Common Names for CITES Appendix I, Appendix II, and Appendix III Timber Species 

Scientific Name Common Name Other Common Names
CITES Timber Species Common Names

List of Common Names for CITES Appendix I, Appendix II, and Appendix III Timber Species

02/2023-82 CITES Timber Species Manual 7-3

Platymiscium pleiostachyum cristobal graradillo cachimbo, cristóbal, ñambar, roble colorado 

Podocarpus neriifolius podocarp amanu, black pine, brown pine, bukiti, jati bukit

Podocarpus parlatorei Parlatore’s podocarp pino blanco, pino del cerro, pino montano

Prunus africana African cherry, 

pygeum 

Pterocarpus spp. African rosewood African kino, African teak, barwood, black camwood, Gambian kino, madobia, pallisandre du Senegal, santal, Senegal 

rosewood, West African rosewood, ven

Quercus mongolica mongolian oak

Senna meridionalis taraby

Swietenia humilis Pacific Coast 

mahogany

caoba, mabu, Pacific mahogany

Swietenia macrophylla bigleaf mahogany acajou, acajou Amerique, acajou d’Amerique, acajou du 

Honduras, Adoa, aguano, American mahogany, 

Americkaans mahonie, Amerikanns mahonie, ara putange, 

araputanga, bastard lime, bay-mahogany, baywood, belize 

mahogany, caòba, Honduras mahogany, mara, mogno

Swietenia mahogani Caribbean mahogany acajou, acajou de Cuba, acajou de Saint Domingue, acajou 

de St. Domingue, acajou des Antilles, aguano, antillen 

mahogani, bay mahogany, caoba, caoba de santo domingo, 

caoba dominicana, caobilla, chiculte, cobano, Cuban 

mahogany, curlet mahogany, Dominican mahogany, echites 

mahagoni, gateado, Jamaica mahogany, Kuba mahogany, 

madiera, mahagoni, mahog, mahogany, mahogany du pays, 

mahogany petites feuilles, mahok, mahoni, mongo, orura, 

small-leaf mahogany, West Indian mahogany, West Indies 

mahogany

Tetracentron sinense Tetracentron shui quing shu

Widdringtonia whytei Mulanje-cedar

Table 7-1 List of Common Names for CITES Appendix I, Appendix II, and Appendix III Timber Species 

Scientific Name Common Name Other Common Names
CITES Timber Species Common Names

List of Common Names for CITES Appendix I, Appendix II, and Appendix III Timber Species

7-4 CITES Timber Species Manual 02/2023-82
05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual A-1

Appendix

A

Forms and Permits

Contents

Introduction A-2

Instructions for CBP to Order USDA Forms A-3

Request for Services to Transport, Store, and/or Dispose of Seized or Forfeited 

Shipments A-4

List of Violations A-7

CITES Standard CITES Form A-9

CITES Traveling Exhibition Certificate A-12

CITES Traveling-Exhibition Certificate Continuation Sheet A-14

FWS CITES Special Permit Condition A-15

FWS Cover Letter to CITES Re-export Certificate Permittee A-16

FWS Form 3-201A CITES Other Certificate (Pre-Convention) A-17

FWS Form 3-201A, CITES Re-export Certificate A-18

FWS Notice FWS-USDA Validation of CITES Documents for Products 

Containing Both CITES-listed Plants and Wildlife Species A-19

PPQ Form 518, Report of Violation A-20

PPQ Form 621, Application for Protected Plant Permit to Engage in Business 

of Importing, Exporting, or Re-exporting... A-25

Purpose A-26

Instructions A-26

Distribution of PPQ Form 621 A-26

Protected Plant Permit A-27

Purpose A-28

Instructions A-28

Distribution of ePermits Protected Plant Permit A-28

PPQ Form 623, Waiver of Forfeiture Procedures by Owner of Seized Property 

$10,000 or Less A-29

Purpose A-30

Instructions A-30

Distribution and Retention of PPQ Form 623 A-31

PPQ Form 624, Notice for Seizure and Proposed Forfeiture of Property Valued 

at $10,000 or Less A-32

PPQ Form 624, Parts 1 through 4 A-32

Purpose A-33

Instructions for Completing PPQ Form 624, Parts 1 through 4 A-33

Distribution and Retention of PPQ Form 624, Parts 1 through 4 A-35

PPQ Form 624, Part 5-PPQ/CBP Port Worksheet A-37

Purpose A-38
Forms and Permits

Introduction

A-2 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

Instructions for Completing PPQ Form 624, Part 5-PPQ/CBP Port 

Worksheet A-38

Distribution and Retention of PPQ Form 624, Part 5-PPQ/CBP Port 

Worksheet A-40

PPQ Form 624A, Notice for Seizure of Property Valued Greater Than $10,000 

A-41

PPQ Form 624A, Parts 1 through 4 A-41

Purpose A-42

Instructions for Completing PPQ Form 624A, Parts 1-4 A-42

Distribution and Retention of PPQ Form 624A, Notice for Seizure of 

Property Valued Greater Than $10,000, Parts 1-4 A-44

Purpose A-46

Instructions for Completing PPQ Form 624A, Part 5-PPQ/CBP Port 

Worksheet A-46

Distribution and Retention of PPQ Form 624A, Part 5-PPQ/CBP Port 

Worksheet A-47

PPQ Form 625 Claim and Bond A-48

Purpose A-49

Instructions A-49

Distribution of PPQ Form 625 A-49

PPQ Form 626, Petition for Remission or Mitigation of Forfeiture A-50

Purpose A-51

Instructions A-51

Distribution of PPQ Form 626 A-51

PPQ Form 627, Declaration of Forfeiture A-53

Purpose A-54

Instructions A-54

Distribution and Retention of PPQ Form 627 A-55

Introduction

This appendix provides the reference list of violations to cite on PPQ forms, 

and examples and instructions for completing, distributing, and retaining PPQ 

forms.
Forms and Permits

Instructions for CBP to Order USDA Forms

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual A-3

Instructions for CBP to Order USDA Forms

CBP Field Offices may order USDA APHIS and PPQ forms by following the 

procedures below:

1. Check to see if your office has a Director Field Operations (DFO) 

Customer Identification Number. The number starts with 34HL and has 

four other numbers. 

2. Obtain a DFO Customer ID by providing the following information to the 

USDA forms point-of-contact, and sending via e-mail to 

cathy.a.mcduffie@usda.gov:

A. Full name of the person responsible for ordering USDA forms in the 

DFO Office.

B. Full mailing address of the DFO office (no P.O. box).

C. Telephone number of the point-of-contact in the CBP Field Office.

D. Facsimile number of the point-of-contact in the CBP Field Office.

E. E-mail address of the point-of-contact in the CBP Field Office.

3. A DFO Customer Identification Number will be assigned to the CBP Field 

Office; and the designated point-of-contact in the CBP Field Office will be 

notified of the DFO Customer Identification Number.

4. Once the DFO Customer Identification Number has been assigned, the 

CBP Field Office person responsible for ordering USDA forms is strongly 

encouraged to order USDA forms via the Internet at www.bsc.usda.gov. 

5. As a last resort, the CBP Field Office person responsible for ordering 

USDA forms may FAX the order to the USDA point-of-contact (Joseph 

Moxey; phone 301/851-2533) ; however, ordering USDA forms by FAX 

could lead to delays.

6. The CBP Field Office person ordering USDA forms must use the same 

DFO Customer Identification Number for all forms orders. Order only the 

forms and quantity needed and reorder when necessary. Do not order large 

quantities of USDA forms. Forms take approximately 5-10 days to arrive 

after receipt of order.

EXAMPLE DFO Customer ID number 34HL1111.
Forms and Permits

Request for Services to Transport, Store, and/or Dispose of Seized or Forfeited Shipments

A-4 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

Request for Services to Transport, Store, and/or Dispose of Seized 

or Forfeited Shipments 

Figure A-1 Example of Request for Services to Transport, Store, and/or Dispose of Seized or Forfeited 

Shipments
Forms and Permits

Request for Services to Transport, Store, and/or Dispose of Seized or Forfeited Shipments

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual A-5

Purpose

The Request for Services to Transport, Store, and/or Dispose of Seized or 

Forfeited Shipments worksheet is part of the process to obtain the 

transportation, storage, and if applicable, disposal cost of seized or forfeited 

material. See page 4-14 through page 4-23 for additional information, 

Instructions

Obtain a fillable copy o Request for Services to Transport, Store, and/or 

Dispose of Seized or Forfeited Shipments (click link to access), and complete 

the request as instructed in Table A-2 below. 

Table A-2 Instructions for Completing Request for Services to Transport, Store, and/or Dispose of 

Seized or Forfeited Shipments 

Block Instructions

1 Seizure Number ENTER the forfeiture number or port file number 

2 Description of Commodity ENTER a description of the material seized or forfeited

3 Quantity and Unit LIST the quantity and unit of the material seized

4 Common Name of Wood LIST the common name of the wood the material or articles are 

derived

5 Scientific Name LIST the scientific name of the seized wood

6 Country of Origin LIST the country where the wood originated

7 Weight in Kilograms LIST, in kilograms, the weight of the shipment or wood seized or 

forfeited

8 Dimensions of the Shipment MEASURE the material seized as one entire unit, and ENTER the 

dimensions in feet

9 Value of Shipment LIST the value of the items seized or forfeited

10a Is the shipment on pallets? CLICK the appropriate YES or NO button

10b If YES, are pallets part of the 

shipment?

If the pallets were removed and seized as part of the shipment then 

click YES; if not, click NO

11 Location of Seized Material LIST the name of the facility where the seized material is currently 

located, and the complete address of the facility

12 CBP or PPQ Point-of-contact If CBP is the point-of-contact, then CLICK the CBP button and 

ENTER the CBP point-of-contact’s name and phone number

If PPQ is the point-of-contact, then CLICK the PPQ button and 

ENTER the PPQ point-of-contact’s name and phone number

13 Storage Charges Accrued-to-date If there are any storage costs as of today, then LIST the storage 

costs

If there are no storage costs as of today, then ENTER a O
Forms and Permits

Request for Services to Transport, Store, and/or Dispose of Seized or Forfeited Shipments

A-6 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

Distribution of Request for Services to Transport, Store, and/

or Dispose of Seized or Forfeited Shipments 

E-mail the completed worksheet to the National CITES Coordinator:

E-mail: john.veremis@usda.gov

Subject: Request for Services to Transport, Store, and/or Dispose of 

Seized or Forfeited Shipments

Attn: National CITES Coordinator

The contractor will contact the CBP or PPQ Point-of-contact Officer to 

schedule an appointment to have the loading of the forfeited material 

supervised.

14 Amount the dock, pier, or warehouse 

will continue to charge on a daily 

basis

ASK the dock, pier, or warehouse how much they will continue to 

charge each day for storing the shipment

15 Date the Forfeited Property Valued 

at $10,000 or Less can Be Disposed

If the shipment is valued at $10,000 or under, COUNT from the date 

PPQ Form 627 was sent plus 60 days and ENTER the disposal date 

If the forfeited property is valued grater than $10,000, then PPQ 

Headquarters will notify the contractor of the disposal date

Table A-2 Instructions for Completing Request for Services to Transport, Store, and/or Dispose of 

Seized or Forfeited Shipments (continued)

Block Instructions
Forms and Permits

List of Violations

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual A-7

List of Violations

Use the violations listed in Figure A-3 as a reference for the citation of 

regulations for CITES violations when completing PPQ Form 518, and the 

seizure and forfeiture forms PPQ Form 623, PPQ Form 624, PPQ Form 624A, 

and PPQ Form 627. 

Table A-3 Reference for CITES Violations Citation of Regulations on Applicable PPQ Forms 518, 623, 

624, 624A, and 627 

Regulation Violation

Acceptable forms to cite 

regulation as 

appropriate

16 USC 1538(c)(1) Any violation of CITES PPQ Form 518

PPQ Form 623

PPQ Form 624

PPQ Form 624A

PPQ Form 627

50 CFR 23.13 Any violation of CITES

50 CFR 23.20 Violation involving the CITES document requirement for 

Appendix I, II, or III specimens in international trade 

50 CFR 23.23 Violation involving the required information on a CITES 

document

50 CFR 23.26 Violation involving the validity and acceptance of CITES 

documents

50 CFR 23.35 Violation involving the import permit requirement for a CITES 

Appendix I specimen

50 CFR 23.36 Violation involving the export permit requirement for a CITES 

Appendix I, II, or III specimen

50 CFR 23.37 Violation involving the re-export certificate requirement for a 

CITES Appendix I, II, or III specimen 

50 CFR 23.38 Violation involving the CITES certificate of origin requirement 

for a CITES Appendix III specimen

50 CFR 23.40 Violation involving the certificate requirement for an artificially 

propagated (plantation grown) CITES Appendix I, II, or III 

specimen grown for noncommercial purposes, or 

an Appendix II or III specimen grown for commercial or 

noncommercial purposes 

50 CFR 23.45 Violations involving the pre-Convention certificate requirement 

for a CITES Appendix I, II, or III specimen

50 CFR 23.47 Violation involving the permit requirement for an artificially 

propagated (plantation grown) CITES Appendix I specimen for 

commercial purposes

50 CFR 24.11 & 24.12 Violations involving the import, export, or re-export of any 

CITES species through a non-designated port

16 USC 1538(f)(1) Violations involving the import, export, or re-export of any 

CITES species through a non-designated port

7 CFR 355.11 Violations of the Protected Plant Permit (PPP) requirement for 

commercial importation, exportation, or re-exportation of 

CITES species

PPQ Form 5181
Forms and Permits

List of Violations

A-8 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

7 CFR 355.20 Violations of the marking and notification requirements for 

CITES species imported, exported, or re-exported by means 

other than the mail

7 CFR 355.21 Violations of the marking and notification requirements for 

CITES species imported, exported, or re-exported by mail

7 CFR 355.22(a) Violations of the requirement to have CITES documentation 

validated prior to the movement of an import of a CITES 

species from the Customs inspection area

7 CFR 355.22(b) Violations of the requirement to have CITES documentation 

validated prior to the exportation or re-exportation of a CITES 

species

7 CFR 355.23 Violations of the requirements involving record keeping, 

access, and reports for the commercial importation, 

exportation, or re-exportation of CITES species

1 If the violation warrants seizure and forfeiture, then citation of 7CFR 355 may be used on PPQ Forms 623, 624, 624A, and 

627. See Step 1: Determine if a Violation of USDA Regulations Concerning CITES Regulated Plants Exists on page 4-3.

Table A-3 Reference for CITES Violations Citation of Regulations on Applicable PPQ Forms 518, 623, 

624, 624A, and 627 (continued)

Regulation Violation

Acceptable forms to cite 

regulation as 

appropriate
Forms and Permits

CITES Standard CITES Form

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual A-9

CITES Standard CITES Form

The location of blocks in the Standard CITES form may be in different 

locations depending on the country issuing the form.

Figure A-2 Example of Standard CITES Form (front) (Annex 2, Conference Resolution 12.3 (Rev. 

CoP15)
Forms and Permits

CITES Standard CITES Form

A-10 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

Figure A-3 Example of Standard CITES Form (back) (Conf. Resolution 12.3 Rev. CoP15)
Forms and Permits

CITES Standard CITES Form

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual A-11

Annex 1

Figure A-4 Information That Should be Included in CITES Permits and Certificates (Annex 1 to 

Conference Resolution 12.3 (Rev. CoP15) 
Forms and Permits

CITES Traveling Exhibition Certificate

A-12 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

CITES Traveling Exhibition Certificate

Figure A-5 Example of a CITES Traveling-Exhibition Certificate (CoP15)
Forms and Permits

CITES Traveling Exhibition Certificate

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual A-13

Figure A-6 Example of a CITES Traveling-Exhibition Certificate (back) (CoP15)
Forms and Permits

CITES Traveling-Exhibition Certificate Continuation Sheet

A-14 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

CITES Traveling-Exhibition Certificate Continuation Sheet

Figure A-7 Example of a CITES Traveling-Exhibition Certificate Continuation Sheet (CoP15)
Forms and Permits

FWS CITES Special Permit Condition

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual A-15

FWS CITES Special Permit Condition 

Figure A-8 Example of FWS CITES Special Permit Condition
Forms and Permits

FWS Cover Letter to CITES Re-export Certificate Permittee

A-16 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

FWS Cover Letter to CITES Re-export Certificate Permittee 

Figure A-9 Example of FWS Re-export Certificate Cover Letter to Permittee
Forms and Permits

FWS Form 3-201A CITES Other Certificate (Pre-Convention)

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual A-17

FWS Form 3-201A CITES Other Certificate (Pre-Convention) 

Figure A-10 Example of FWS CITES Other Certificate (Pre-Convention) (printed on security paper)
Forms and Permits

FWS Form 3-201A, CITES Re-export Certificate

A-18 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

FWS Form 3-201A, CITES Re-export Certificate 

Figure A-11 Example of USFWS Form 3-201A, CITES Re-export Certificate (with Special Conditions)
Forms and Permits

FWS Notice FWS-USDA Validation of CITES Documents for Products Containing Both CITES-listed Plants and Wildlife

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual A-19

FWS Notice FWS-USDA Validation of CITES Documents for Products 

Containing Both CITES-listed Plants and Wildlife Species

Table A-4 FWS Notice of FWS-USDA Validation of CITES Documents for Products Containing Both 

CITES-listed Non-living Plants and Wildlife Species CITES or Non-CITES

 

Date: May 02, 2016 

Subject: Validation of CITES documents for products containing both CITES listed plants 

species and wildlife species 

Background: There has been a reoccurring issue with respect to which government agency, the 

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) or the U.S. Department of Agriculture Animal and Plant 

Health Inspection Service (APHIS) provides inspection, Convention on International Trade in 

Endangered Species (CITES) permit validation, and clearance for shipments of products 

imported and exported that contain both CITES listed plant species and wildlife species, both 

CITES and non-CITES. 

To address these issues, the FWS and APHIS have collaborated to streamline the import and 

export requirements for both agencies. This agreement is effective immediately and until further 

notice. 

Action: FWS Wildlife Inspectors will validate CITES documents and inspect and clear imports 

and exports of products that meet the following criteria: 

For Import - inspect and clear shipments of products containing both CITES listed non-living 

 plant species and any wildlife species that may be either CITES or non-CITES 

 listed species 

For Export - inspect and clear, including validation of CITES documents, shipments of products 

 containing both CITES listed non-living plant species and any wildlife species, 

 both CITES and non-CITES listed species 

This guidance only applies to shipments that contain both CITES listed plants and wildlife. 

Contact:

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 

Office of Law Enforcement 

703-358-1949; 703-358-2271 (fax) 

lawenforcement@fws.gov (e-mail)

NOTICE TO THE WILDLIFE 

IMPORT/EXPORT COMMUNITY
Forms and Permits

PPQ Form 518, Report of Violation

A-20 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

PPQ Form 518, Report of Violation

Figure A-12 Example of PPQ Form 518, Report of Violation
Forms and Permits

PPQ Form 518, Report of Violation

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual A-21

Purpose

PPQ Form 518, Report of Violation, as relates to CITES is used to report 

violations of 7CFR 355, 50CFR 23, and 50CFR 24, and becomes part of the 

total case file together with the Officer’s Statement.

Instructions

Follow the instructions in Table A-5 to complete PPQ Form 518 for CITES 

violations. 

Table A-5 Instructions for Completing PPQ Form 518, Report of Violation

Block Instructions

1 DATE VIOLATION DISCOVERED 1. LIST the date the violation was discovered

2. If discovered after the violation occurred, then EXPLAIN in Block 

15, REMARKS

2 VIOLATED-REG/COMPL 

AGREEMENT

CITE the regulations violated; see Figure A-3 on page A-7

3 WHERE INTERCEPTED LIST the name of the port where the violation occurred

4 ORIGIN OF ARTICLE (include country 

if domestic)

LIST the name of the country where the article originated or the 

timber was grown

5 ARTICLE MOVED IN VIOLATION OF 

REGULATIONS

LIST the name of the CITES regulated articles

6 IDENTITY OF ARTICLE LIST the waybill number, serial number, etc.

7 NAME AND ADDRESS OF VIOLATOR LIST the violator’s name and business address

8 VIOLATOR HAD CHECK the applicable box

Compliance agreement LEAVE blank; not applicable

Permit If the violator had a permit, then CHECK YES

If the violator did not have a permit, then CHECK NO

9 IF NO, VIOLATOR WAS AWARE OF 

REGULATION

COMPLETE as applicable

If YES, how informed and when COMPLETE as applicable

10 NAME AND BUSINESS ADDRESS 

OF CARRIER

LIST the carrier’s name and business address

11 CARRIER WAS AWARE OF 

REGULATION

CHECK the applicable box

12 IDENTITY OF CARRIER COMPLETE as appropriate

13 NAME AND BUSINESS ADDRESS 

OF CONSIGNEE

LIST the name and address of the violator (same as Block 7)

14 DISPOSITION OF PEST RISK LEAVE blank; not applicable
Forms and Permits

PPQ Form 518, Report of Violation

A-22 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

15 REMARKS ENTER any pertinent remarks

16 VIOLATOR OR CARRIER’S 

STATEMENT OF VIOLATION

If applicable, do the following:

1. ASK the violator to provide an explanation of the incident and get 

a written statement as soon as possible

2. GET statements from the carrier, agent, importer, or any other 

party involved

3. TITLE the statement “Violator’s Statement” or “Agent’s 

Statement”, etc., and GIVE the statement an exhibit number and 

ENTER the words “See attached [Violator/Carrier/Agent/

Importer’s] Statement” in this block

4. If the person refuses to write a statement, then DO as follows:

ASK the person to tell you what happened relative to the 

violation

 WRITE down exactly what the person says

 INDICATE the statement was transcribed by you, the officer 

and use your transcription as the statement

5. If the person gives you only a few brief remarks, then LIST these 

directly in Block 16

17 OFFICER’S STATEMENT

1. WRITE your explanation of the violation on a separate sheet of 

paper and title “Officer’s Statement”

2. GIVE this statement an exhibit number

3. DESCRIBE all the facts that resulted in the article listed in 

Block 5 being in violation of the regulation listed in Block 2

4. STATE all the facts including who, what, when, where, how

5. INCLUDE the following information where appropriate:

A. When and where the violation occurred

B. How the violation occurred

C. Identify the owner of the regulated articles 

D. Refer to your exhibits and explain their relevance to the cas

E. If you witnessed the violation, state so

6. Officer SIGNS and DATES the statement

7. If more than one officer was involved with the violation, then each 

officer must WRITE a separate statement

18 SIGNATURE OF INITIATING 

OFFICER

Initiating officer SIGNS this block

19 PRINTED NAME AND WORK UNIT PRINT the initiating officer’s name and work unit 

20 DATE REPORT COMPLETED LIST the date this form is completed

Table A-5 Instructions for Completing PPQ Form 518, Report of Violation (continued)

Block Instructions

NOTICE

An Officer’s Statement must be written and accompany 

each completed PPQ 518 submitted.
Forms and Permits

PPQ Form 518, Report of Violation

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual A-23

21 OFFICER IN CHARGE COMMENTS 1. LIST any additional information that may help to substantiate the 

case, such as previous warning letters and dates sent, any 

known previous civil penalties, case numbers, and dates and 

amounts of penalties assessed

2. LIST your recommendation for one of the following:

 Warning letter

 Civil penalty

 Criminal penalty

22 SIGNATURE OF OFFICER IN 

CHARGE

Officer-in-charge (Port Director) signs

23 PRINTED NAME OF OFFICER IN 

CHARGE AND WORK UNIT

PRINT the name and work unit of officer-in-charge (Port Director)

24 DATE SIGNED LIST the date the officer-in-charge signed Block 22

Table A-5 Instructions for Completing PPQ Form 518, Report of Violation (continued)

Block Instructions
Forms and Permits

PPQ Form 518, Report of Violation

A-24 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

Distribution of PPQ Form 518

Include with PPQ form 518, the Officer’s Statement and any other attached 

statements in the case file in the distribution shown in Table A-6.

Table A-6 Distribution of PPQ Form 518 Case File

If you are: Then:

CBP SEND through channels

PPQ Plant Health Safeguarding Specialist 

or PPQ Export Certification Specialist

1. MAKE a copy for your file

2. GIVE or SEND the originals of the entire case file to the Port Director

3. SCAN and E-mail a copy of the 518 to the National CITES Coordinator:

E-mail: john.veremis@usda.gov

Subject: PPQ Form 518, Report of Violation

Attn: National CITES Coordinator

Port Director 1. If you made a separate statement concerning the violation, then 

ATTACH the statement to the top of the file

2. GIVE or SEND the entire case file to the Plant Health Director of the 

State where the violation originated

State Plant Health Director 1. ARRANGE the contents of the case file in the following order:

A. Port Director’s Statement

B. PPQ Form 518

C. List of Exhibits

D. Officer’s Statement

E. Clear readable copies of all other documents in the file

F. Photographs and other physical evidence

G. Warning letter or other information about previous violations

2. SEND the entire case file (originals) to Investigative and Enforcement 

Services at the following address:

USDA-APHIS-IES

4700 River Road, Unit 85

Riverdale, MD 20737
Forms and Permits

PPQ Form 621, Application for Protected Plant Permit to Engage in Business of Importing, Exporting, or Re-exporting...

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual A-25

PPQ Form 621, Application for Protected Plant Permit to Engage in 

Business of Importing, Exporting, or Re-exporting...

Figure A-13 Example of PPQ Form 621, Application for Protected Plant Permit to Engage in the 

Business of Importing, Exporting, or Re-exporting Terrestrial Plants
Forms and Permits

PPQ Form 621, Application for Protected Plant Permit to Engage in Business of Importing, Exporting, or Re-exporting...

A-26 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

Purpose

PPQ Form 621, Application for Protected Plant Permit to Engage in the 

Business of Importing, Exporting, or Re-exporting Terrestrial Plants, is used to 

apply for a USDA-APHIS ePermits-issued Protected Plant Permit. 

Instructions

The application for a PPQ Protected Plant Permit may be completed online 

via USDA-APHIS ePermits or by going to ePermits (printing a copy of PPQ 

Form 621, completing the application, and mailing along with the fee to the 

following address:

USDA-APHIS-PPQ Permit Unit

4700 River Road, Unit 136

Riverdale, Maryland 20737-1236.

CBP see Confirm PPP Valid or Apply for a PPP on page 2-105 for instructions.

PPQ see Confirm PPP Valid or Apply for a PPP on page 3-75 for instructions.

Distribution of PPQ Form 621

Application is submitted on-line via ePermits or by completing a paper 

application and mailing the completed PPQ Form 621 along with the $70 

check to the following address:

USDA-APHIS-PPQ

PPQ Permit Unit

4700 River Road, Unit 136

Riverdale, MD 20737-1236
Forms and Permits

Protected Plant Permit

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual A-27

Protected Plant Permit

Figure A-14 Example of a Protected Plant Permit (ePermits) 
Forms and Permits

Protected Plant Permit

A-28 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

Purpose

The Protected Plant Permit (PPP) is one document required for importers, 

exporters, and re-exporters to engage in the commercial trade of CITES-listed 

or ESA-listed plants. 

All USDA-APHIS e-Permits issued Protected Plant Permits are valid for two 

years from the date issued. The expiration date is located in the upper righthand corner of the ePermit. 

All previously-issued PPQ Form 622, Protected Plant Permits have expired 

and are no longer valid. 

Instructions

The applicant must first complete and submit PPQ Form 621, Application for 

Protected Plant Permit to Engage in Business of Importing, Exporting, or Reexporting... to apply for a Protected Plant Permit. 

The application for a PPQ Protected Plant Permit may be completed online via 

USDA-APHIS ePermits or by going to ePermits (printing a copy of PPQ Form 

621, completing the application, and mailing along with the fee to the USDAAPHIS-PPQ Permit Unit, 4700 River Road, Unit 136, Riverdale, Maryland 

20737-1236. See PPQ Form 621 Instructions on page A-26.

CBP see Confirm PPP Valid or Apply for a PPP on page 2-105 for additional 

information.

PPQ see Confirm PPP Valid or Apply for a PPP on page 3-75 for additional 

information.

Distribution of ePermits Protected Plant Permit

The Protected Plant Permit (PPP), is generated electronically via ePermits and 

is issued to the permittee by the PPQ Permit Unit. The PPP is part of the 

paperwork presented to CBP or PPQ at the time of import, export, or re-export 

of CITES or ESA material. 

Retain a copy of the PPP in your port file for the standard time period (5 years).
Forms and Permits

PPQ Form 623, Waiver of Forfeiture Procedures by Owner of Seized Property $10,000 or Less

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual A-29

PPQ Form 623, Waiver of Forfeiture Procedures by Owner of Seized 

Property $10,000 or Less

Figure A-15 Example of PPQ Form 623, Waiver of Forfeiture Procedures by Owner of Seized Property 

Valued at $10,000 or Less
Forms and Permits

PPQ Form 623, Waiver of Forfeiture Procedures by Owner of Seized Property $10,000 or Less

A-30 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

Purpose

PPQ Form 623, Waiver of Forfeiture Procedures by Owner of Seized Property, 

is used to allow the owner to waive title to the material moving in violation of 

the legislation. This form is used for seizures valued at $10,000 or less.

Instructions

Complete PPQ Form 623 as shown in Table A-7 below. 

Table A-7 Instructions for Completing PPQ Form 623, Waiver of Forfeiture Procedures by Owner of 

Seized Property (for seizures valued at $10,000 or less)

Block Instructions

FILE NO. List the port file number (see Filing System for Violations, Seizures, and 

Forfeitures)

1 The property described below was 

seized by the U.S. DA on [date] at 

[time] at [place]

1. LIST the date and time CBP or PPQ determines a shipment warrants 

forfeiture procedure and verifies the physical location of the shipment 

as either in a CBP- or PPQ-owned, leased, or approved facility, or 

within a Customs bonded operation (seizure date)

2. LIST the name of the port, city and State where the seizure occurred 

3. LIST the city and state where the property is being held

2 DESCRIPTION OF PROPERTY 1. LIST the common name of the wood the article or lumber is derived 

from

2. LIST the scientific name of the wood the article is derived from

3. LIST the quantity seized (number of pieces, cubic meters, squares 

meters, etc. according to commodity)

3 DESCRIPTION OF PROPERTY... 1. MODIFY this block by crossing out or lining out the words “OTHER 

THAN PLANTS”

2. WRITE a description of the article (include identifying marks. serial 

number, etc.)

4 THIS PROPERTY WAS SEIZED 

BECAUSE

WRITE a description of the violation 

THIS WAS IN VIOLATION OF WRITE the CFR number and USC number of the regulation violated

(see List of Violations on page A-7, Figure A-3)

5 PLANTS NOW LOCATED AT LIST the location of the plants, plant parts, or derivatives (such as wood, 

lumber, or articles made from wood) 

6 ARRIVED ON LIST the carrier’s name

7 WAYBILL NO LIST the waybill number

8 NAME AND ADDRESS OF 

OWNER(S)

Owner COMPLETES this block and LISTS name and address

9 SIGNATURE OF OWNER(S) Owner SIGNS this block

10 DATE Owner LISTS the date signed

EXAMPLE The CITES document presented has expired.
Forms and Permits

PPQ Form 623, Waiver of Forfeiture Procedures by Owner of Seized Property $10,000 or Less

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual A-31

Distribution and Retention of PPQ Form 623

Distribute and retain PPQ Form 623 as follows:

If the owner or owner’s agent is present and signs PPQ Form 623, Waiver 

of Forfeiture Procedures by Owner of Seized Property $10,000 or Less, 

then distribute the form as follows:

FILE Part 1 in the Port file and retain for 5 years

GIVE Part 2 to the owner or agent

If the owner or owner’s agent is present but will not sign the form or is 

not present, then send PPQ Form 623, Waiver of Forfeiture by Certified

or Registered Mail with Return Receipt Requested, together with the 

following forms to all persons believed to be the owner or owners or to 

have an interest in the seized material1

:

PPQ Form 624, Notice for Seizure and Proposed Forfeiture of 

Property Valued at $10,000 or Less, Part 4-Owner 

PPQ Form 625, Claim and Bond

PPQ Form 626, Petition for Remission or Mitigation of Forfeiture

11 SIGNATURE OF WITNESS CBP Agriculture Specialist, PPQ Plant Health Safeguarding Specialist, or 

PPQ Export Certification Specialist SIGNS as a WITNESS to the owner 

signing Block 9; otherwise, another person should sign as witnessing the 

signing of Block 9

12 DATE Witness (to the signing of Block 9) ENTERS the date Block 11 is signed

13 DISPOSITION OF PLANTS CBP Agriculture Specialist, PPQ Plant Health Safeguarding Specialist, or 

PPQ Export Certification Specialist RECORDS the status of the seizure 

Table A-7 Instructions for Completing PPQ Form 623, Waiver of Forfeiture Procedures by Owner of 

Seized Property (for seizures valued at $10,000 or less) (continued)

Block Instructions

EXAMPLE Lumber is on HOLD at Pier 17.

1 Those that may have an interest include interested parties such as the owner’s agent, shipping line, 

or supplier. These people are identified in PPQ Form 624, Part 5-PPQ/CBP Port Worksheet, Block 6.
Forms and Permits

PPQ Form 624, Notice for Seizure and Proposed Forfeiture of Property Valued at $10,000 or Less

A-32 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

PPQ Form 624, Notice for Seizure and Proposed Forfeiture of 

Property Valued at $10,000 or Less 

PPQ Form 624, Parts 1 through 4

Figure A-16 Example of PPQ Form 624, Notice for Seizure and Proposed Forfeiture of Property Valued 

at $10,000 or Less (Part 1; Parts 2 through 4 are duplicates)
Forms and Permits

PPQ Form 624, Notice for Seizure and Proposed Forfeiture of Property Valued at $10,000 or Less

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual A-33

Purpose

PPQ Form 624, Notice for Seizure and Proposed Forfeiture of Property Valued 

at $10,000 or Less (OCT 2006), is now issued for seizures whose value is 

$10,000 or less only, and is used to notify the violator of the intended forfeiture 

of the violator’s seized property. PPQ Form 624 is a multi-part (5-page) carbon 

form. Parts 2 through 4 are duplicates of Part 1; Part 5 is a port worksheet. (See 

PPQ Form 624, Part 5-PPQ/CBP Port Worksheet.) 

Previous editions of PPQ Form 624 are obsolete.

Instructions for Completing PPQ Form 624, Parts 1 through 4

Complete PPQ Form 624, Part 1 (Parts 2, 3, and 4 are duplicates) as shown in 

Table A-8 for seizure and proposed forfeitures valued at $10,000 or less. 

NOTICE

Do not use or modify PPQ Form 624 for seizures greater than $10,000 value.

Table A-8 Instructions for Completing PPQ Form 624, Notice for Seizure and Proposed Forfeiture 

Valued at $10,000 or Less

Block Instructions

FILE NO. ENTER the port file number (see Filing System for Violations, 

Seizures, and Forfeitures)

1 The property described below was 

seized by USDA or DHS.......

1. If PPQ seized the article or lumber, then circle USDA

2. If CBP seized the article or lumber, then circle DHS

on (date)......

at (time).......

After you verify this shipment warrants forfeiture and is placed in a 

CBP- or PPQ-owned, leased, or approved facility or is within a 

Customs-bonded operation, then ENTER the date you are 

completing this form (completion of this form constitutes seizure)

at... LIST the name of the place (pier, port, etc.) where the seizure 

occurred 

and is now in the custody of an Officer 

of PPQ or CBP

3. If the property is in the custody of a PPQ Officer, then circle 

PPQ

4. If the property is in the custody of a CBP Officer, then circle 

CBP

at... ENTER the name of the city and State where the seized property 

is being held
Forms and Permits

PPQ Form 624, Notice for Seizure and Proposed Forfeiture of Property Valued at $10,000 or Less

A-34 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

Instructions for completing PPQ Form 624, Part 5-PPQ/CBP Port Worksheet

are onpage A-37. 

2 DESCRIPTION OF PROPERTY

Common Name LIST the common name of the wood that the article or lumber is 

derived 

Origin LIST the wood’s country of origin

Scientific Name LIST the scientific name of the wood that the article is derived

Appendix Number LIST the wood’s CITES Appendix number (I, II, III)

Source 1. If the wood is from plantation-grown trees, then LIST “Artificially 

Propagated”

2. If the wood is from trees in the wild, then LIST “Wild”

3 DESCRIPTION OF PROPERTY 

(include any identifying numbers)

LIST a description of the article and any identifying marks (such as 

stencil marks, order number, box markings, serial number, etc.)

4 THIS PROPERTY WAS SEIZED 

BECAUSE

LIST a description of the violation 

THIS WAS IN VIOLATION OF LIST the CFR number and USC number of the regulation violated

(see List of Violations, Figure A-3)

5 NAME AND ADDRESS OF APPARENT 

OWNER OF DESCRIBED PROPERTY

LIST the owner’s name (person or company) and address

6 THE PROPERTY WAS APPRAISED IN 

ACCORDANCE WITH 7 CFR 356.2 

AND THE VALUE HAS BEEN 

DETERMINED TO BE 

APPROXIMATELY $

1. If the same wood or articles as those seized are sold in the 

U.S., then LIST the estimated value (of those sold) at the 

nearest retail store 

(see Step 3: Estimate the Retail Value of the Timber or Articles 

Moving in Violation of the Legislation on page 4-8)

2. If the same wood or articles are not sold in the U.S., then LIST 

the invoiced amount

7 NOTICE POSTED

DATE/TIME

ENTER the date and time the notice is posted at the port

8 PRINT NAME OF OFFICER PRINT the name of the officer who seized the article and 

completed this form

9 SIGNATURE OF OFFICER Officer completing form SIGNS 

Table A-8 Instructions for Completing PPQ Form 624, Notice for Seizure and Proposed Forfeiture 

Valued at $10,000 or Less (continued)

Block Instructions

EXAMPLE The owner attempted to import regulated wood 

without the required CITES document.
Forms and Permits

PPQ Form 624, Notice for Seizure and Proposed Forfeiture of Property Valued at $10,000 or Less

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual A-35

Distribution and Retention of PPQ Form 624, Parts 1 through 

4

Distribute and retain PPQ Form 624, Notice for Seizure and Proposed 

Forfeiture of Property Valued at $10,000 or Less, as follows:

1. Scan and send via e-mail, PPQ Form 624, Part 1-PPQ Headquarters to:

E-mail: john.veremis@usda.gov

Subject: PPQ Form 624, Notice for Seizure and Proposed Forfeiture of 

Property Valued at $10,000 or Less

Attn: National CITES Coordinator

(In the near future, you will be notified to send the actual document to 

Riverdale.)

2. Place Part 2-PPQ/CBP Port File in the PPQ or CBP port file.

3. Post Part 3-Port Copy (for posting) at the port; after the posting period of 

21 days has ended, then remove and place this copy in the PPQ or CBP port 

file.

4. Mail Part 4-Owner together with following forms, to all persons believed 

to be owners or to have an interest in the seized material2

 with a Return 

Receipt Requested:

PPQ Form 623, Waiver of Forfeiture Procedures by Owner of Seized 

Property

PPQ Form 625, Claim and Bond

PPQ Form 626, Petition for Remission or Mitigation of Forfeiture

5. Use and maintain Part 5 as the port worksheet. Continue to Instructions for 

Completing PPQ Form 624, Part 5-PPQ/CBP Port Worksheet on 

2 Those that may have an interest include interested parties such as owner’s agent, shipping line, or 

supplier. These people are identified on PPQ Form 624, PPQ Form 624, Part 5-PPQ/CBP Port 

Worksheet, Block 6.

NOTICE

If the owner or owner’s agent is present and requests a copy of PPQ Form 624, Notice for Seizure and Proposed Forfeiture of Property Valued at $10,000 or Less, then make a photocopy 

of Part 4 -Owner and give the photocopy to the owner or owner’s agent. You must also send 

the original Part 4-Owner of PPQ Form 624, to the owner or owner’s agent by Certified or 

Registered Mail with Return Receipt Requested to comply with the regulations.

NOTICE

If multiple owners or agents are identified, then you may send photocopies of the 

required forms in lieu of the actual forms.
Forms and Permits

PPQ Form 624, Notice for Seizure and Proposed Forfeiture of Property Valued at $10,000 or Less

A-36 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

page A-38, and Distribution and Retention of PPQ Form 624A, Part 5-

PPQ/CBP Port Worksheet on page A-47.
Forms and Permits

PPQ Form 624, Notice for Seizure and Proposed Forfeiture of Property Valued at $10,000 or Less

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual A-37

PPQ Form 624, Part 5-PPQ/CBP Port Worksheet 

Figure A-17 Example of PPQ Form 624, Notice for Seizure and Proposed Forfeiture of Property (Part 5-

PPQ/CBP Port Worksheet)
Forms and Permits

PPQ Form 624, Notice for Seizure and Proposed Forfeiture of Property Valued at $10,000 or Less

A-38 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

Purpose

PPQ Form 624, Part 5-PPQ/CBP Port Worksheet of PPQ Form 624, Notice for 

Seizure and Proposed Forfeiture of Property Valued at $10,000 or Less is used

to document which forms have been sent and received, who was notified, and 

the date the next step is to be taken.

Instructions for Completing PPQ Form 624, Part 5-PPQ/CBP 

Port Worksheet

Complete Part 5-PPQ/CBP Port Worksheet of PPQ Form 624, Notice for 

Seizure and Proposed Forfeiture of Property Valued at $10,000 or Less, as 

directed in Table A-9. (See also Forfeiture Procedures for Seizures Valued at 

$10,000 or Less on page 4-9.)

Table A-9 Instructions for Completing PPQ Form 624, Part 5-PPQ/CBP Port Worksheet 

Block Instructions

FILE NO. Blocks 1-4 have been filled out during the process of completing Part 1

1 The property described below was 

seized by USDA or DHS...on 

(date)...at (time)...at (place)...and is 

now in the custody of PPQ or CBP 

(please circle one) at...

2 DESCRIPTION OF PROPERTY 

Common Name/Origin/Scientific 

Name/Appendix Number/Source 

(Artificially Propagated or Wild)/

Number of Plants, Parts, or Weight

3 DESCRIPTION OF PROPERTY 

OTHER THAN PLANTS

4 THIS PROPERTY WAS SEIZED 

BECAUSE

THIS WAS IN VIOLATION OF

5 APPRAISED VALUE $ LIST the appraised value of the seizure from Part 1-Headquarters, 

Block 6

BASIS OF APPRAISAL LIST the source of the appraised value (see Step 3: Estimate the 

Retail Value of the Timber or Articles Moving in Violation of the 

Legislation on page 4-8)
Forms and Permits

PPQ Form 624, Notice for Seizure and Proposed Forfeiture of Property Valued at $10,000 or Less

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual A-39

6 NAME OF PERSONS KNOWN TO 

HAVE AN INTEREST IN THE 

ARTICLE SEIZED

LIST the names of all persons believed to be owners or to have an 

interest in the seized material

INSERT DATE IN BLOCKS THAT APPLY

PPQ 623 SIGNED If PPQ Form 623 was returned signed by the violator, then LIST the 

date received

If PPQ Form 623 not signed and returned from the violator, then draw 

a line through the block

PPQ 624 SENT If PPQ Form 624 was sent to the violator, then LIST the date sent

If not sent to the violator, then draw a line through the block

PPQ 625 SENT If PPQ Form 625 was sent to the violator, then LIST the date sent

If not sent to the violator, then draw a line through the block

PPQ 625 RECEIVED If PPQ Form 625 was returned signed from the violator, then enter the 

date received

If PPQ Form 625 was not signed and returned from the violator, then 

draw a line through the block

PPQ 626 SENT If PPQ Form 626 was sent to the violator, then LIST the date sent

If not sent to the violator, then draw a line through the block

PPQ 626 RECEIVED If PPQ Form 626 was returned signed from the violator, then ENTER 

the date received

If PPQ Form 626 was not signed and returned from the violator, then 

draw a line through the box

7 RECORD OF STEPS COMPLETED

a. PPQ 624 mailed by registered or 

certified mail to person(s) identified 

in 6 above

LIST the date and time PPQ Form 624 was posted, and INITIAL the 

corresponding block

b. PPQ 624 Removed 

(a + 21 days)

Date/Time/Initials

LIST the date and time PPQ Form 624 was removed (date listed in 

Block 7a plus 21 days), and INITIAL the corresponding block

c. Deadline for receiving PPQ 625 

(a + 20 days)

LIST the date and time PPQ Form 625 must be received (date sent + 

20 days), and INITIAL the corresponding block

d. PPQ 627 Declaration of Forfeiture 

prepared and sent (not before c)

LIST the date and time PPQ Form 627 was sent, and INITIAL the 

corresponding block

e. Property forfeited to the United 

States of America for disposition 

according to law (not before d)

LIST the date and time the property is forfeited, and INITIAL the 

corresponding block

Table A-9 Instructions for Completing PPQ Form 624, Part 5-PPQ/CBP Port Worksheet (continued)

Block Instructions
Forms and Permits

PPQ Form 624, Notice for Seizure and Proposed Forfeiture of Property Valued at $10,000 or Less

A-40 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

Distribution and Retention of PPQ Form 624, Part 5-PPQ/CBP 

Port Worksheet

File and retain the completed yellow Part 5-PPQ/CBP Port Worksheet of PPQ 

Form 624, Notice for Seizure and Proposed Forfeiture of Property Valued at 

$10,000 or Less in the port file, and retain for 5 years. 
Forms and Permits

PPQ Form 624A, Notice for Seizure of Property Valued Greater Than $10,000

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual A-41

PPQ Form 624A, Notice for Seizure of Property Valued Greater Than 

$10,000 

PPQ Form 624A, Parts 1 through 4 

Figure A-18 Example of PPQ Form 624A, Notice for Seizure of Property Valued Greater Than $10,000 

(Part 1; Parts 2 through 4 are duplicates)
Forms and Permits

PPQ Form 624A, Notice for Seizure of Property Valued Greater Than $10,000

A-42 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

Purpose

PPQ Form 624A, Notice for Seizure of Property Valued Greater Than $10,000

is used to notify the violator of the intended forfeiture of the violator’s seized 

property when the value is over $10,000. PPQ Form 624A is a multi-part (5-

page) carbon form. Parts 2 through 4 are duplicates of Part 1; Part 5 is used as 

a port worksheet. 

Instructions for Completing PPQ Form 624A, Parts 1-4

Complete PPQ Form 624A, Part 1 (Parts 2 through 4 are duplicates) 

according to the instructions in Table A-10. (See also Forfeiture Procedures for 

Seizures Valued Greater than $10,000 on page 4-12 for detailed instructions.) 

NOTICE

Do not modify or use PPQ Form 624, Notice for Seizure and Proposed Forfeiture of Property 

Valued at $10,000 or Less, for seizures greater than $10,000 value. 

PPQ Form 624A, Notice for Seizure of Property Valued Greater Than $10,000 must be used

for seizures over $10,000 value.

Table A-10 Instructions for Completing PPQ Form 624A, Notice for Seizure of Property Valued Greater 

Than $10,000, Part 1 (Parts 2-4 are duplicates) 

Block Instructions

FILE NO. LIST the port file number (see Filing System for Violations, Seizures, and 

Forfeitures)

1 The property described below 

was seized by USDA or DHS

1. If PPQ seized the article or lumber, then circle USDA

2. If CBP seized the article or lumber, then circle DHS

on (date)

at (time)

After you verify this shipment warrants forfeiture and is placed in a CBP- or 

PPQ-owned, leased, or approved facility or is within a Customs-bonded 

operation, then LIST the date and time you are completing this form 

(completion of this form constitutes seizure)

at (place). LIST the name of the place (pier, port, etc.) where the seizure occurred

and is now the custody of an 

Officer of PPQ or CBP

1. If the property is in the custody of a PPQ Officer, then CIRCLE PPQ

2. If the property is in the custody of a CBP Officer, then CIRCLE CBP

at..... LIST the name of the city and State where the seized property is being held
Forms and Permits

PPQ Form 624A, Notice for Seizure of Property Valued Greater Than $10,000

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual A-43

2 DESCRIPTION OF PROPERTY

Common Name LIST the common name of the wood that the article or lumber is derived 

Origin LIST the wood’s country of origin 

Scientific Name LIST the scientific name of the wood that the article is derived

Appendix Number LIST the wood’s CITES Appendix number (I, II, or III) 

Source (Artificially 

Propagated or Wild)

1. If the wood is from plantation-grown trees, then LIST “Artificially 

Propagated”

2. If the wood is from trees in the wild, then LIST “Wild”

Number of Plants, Parts, or 

Weight

LIST the quantity seized (number of pieces, cubic meters, square meters, 

etc. according to commodity)

3 DESCRIPTION OF 

PROPERTY (include any 

identifying numbers)

LIST a description of the article and any identifying marks (such as stencil 

marks, order number, box markings, serial number, etc.)

4 THIS PROPERTY WAS 

SEIZED BECAUSE

ENTER a description of the violation 

THIS WAS IN VIOLATION OF ENTER the CFR section and USC section of the regulation violated

(see List of Violations, Figure A-3)

5 NAME AND ADDRESS OF 

APPARENT OWNER OF 

DESCRIBED PROPERTY

LIST the owner’s name (person or company) and address

6 THE PROPERTY WAS 

APPRAISED IN 

ACCORDANCE WITH 7CFR 

356.2 AND THE VALUE HAS 

BEEN DETERMINED TO BE 

APPROXIMATELY $

1. If the same wood or articles as those seized are sold in the U.S., then 

LIST the estimated value (of those sold) at the nearest retail store 

(see Step 3: Estimate the Retail Value of the Timber or Articles Moving 

in Violation of the Legislation on page 4-8)

2. If the same wood or articles are not sold in the U.S., then LIST the 

invoiced amount

7 NOTICE SENT ENTER the date and time the notice is sent to the owner or company

8 PRINT NAME OF OFFICER PRINT the name of officer seizing the wood or articles and completing this 

form

9 SIGNATURE OF OFFICER Officer completing the form SIGNS 

Table A-10 Instructions for Completing PPQ Form 624A, Notice for Seizure of Property Valued Greater 

Than $10,000, Part 1 (Parts 2-4 are duplicates) (continued)

Block Instructions

EXAMPLE The owner attempted to import regulated wood without

the required CITES document.
Forms and Permits

PPQ Form 624A, Notice for Seizure of Property Valued Greater Than $10,000

A-44 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

Distribution and Retention of PPQ Form 624A, Notice for 

Seizure of Property Valued Greater Than $10,000, Parts 1-4

Distribute Parts 1 through 4 of PPQ Form 624A, Notice for Seizure of 

Property Valued Greater Than $10,000, as listed below (see Forfeiture 

Procedures for Seizures Valued Greater than $10,000 on page 4-12 for more 

information):

1. Assemble the following documents:

A. PPQ Form 624A, Part 1-PPQ Headquarters original

B. Narrative report original (written by CPB Agriculture Specialist, PPQ 

Plant Health Safeguarding Specialist, or PPQ Export Certification 

Specialist) 

C. Correspondence and documents that accompanied the shipment 

2. Scan the above documents and send via e-mail to: 

E-mail: john.veremis@usda.gov

Subject: PPQ Form 624A, Notice for Seizure of Property Valued Greater 

Than $10,000

Attn: National CITES Coordinator

(In the near future, you will be notified to send the actual documents to 

Riverdale.)

3. Mail by Certified or Registered Mail with Return Receipt Requested, 

the following forms to all persons believed to be owners or to have an 

interest in the seized material 3:

PPQ Form 624A, Part 4-Owner

PPQ Form 626, Petition for Remission or Mitigation of Forfeiture 

4. File the PPQ Form 624A Part 2-PPQ/CBP Port File, and Part 5-PPQ/

CBP Port Worksheet, original in the port files and retain for 5 years.

3 Those that may have an interest include interested parties such as the owner’s agent, shipping line, 

or supplier. These people are identified on the PPQ Form 624A, Part 5-PPQ/CBP Port Worksheet, 

Block 6.

NOTICE

If multiple owners or agents are identified, then you may send photocopies of the 

required forms in lieu of the actual forms.

NOTICE

If the owner or owner’s agent is present and requests a copy of the PPQ Form 624A, then 

make a photocopy of Part 4-Owner and give the photocopy to the owner or owner’s agent. 

You must also send the original Part 4 of PPQ Form 624A to the owner or owner’s agent by 

Certified or Registered Mail with Return Receipt Requested to comply with the regulations.
Forms and Permits

PPQ Form 624A, Notice for Seizure of Property Valued Greater Than $10,000

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual A-45

PPQ Form 624A, Part 5-PPQ/CBP Port Worksheet

Figure A-19 Example of PPQ Form 624A, Notice for Seizure of Property Valued Greater Than $10,000 

(Part 5-PPQ/CBP Port Worksheet)
Forms and Permits

PPQ Form 624A, Notice for Seizure of Property Valued Greater Than $10,000

A-46 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

Purpose 

PPQ Form 624A, Part 5-PPQ/CBP Port Worksheet, is a port worksheet used to 

document the seizure’s appraised value and appraisal source, which forms have 

been sent and received, and who was notified. 

Instructions for Completing PPQ Form 624A, Part 5-PPQ/CBP 

Port Worksheet

Complete PPQ Form 624A, Part 5-PPQ/CBP Port Worksheet, as shown in 

Table A-11. 

Table A-11 Instructions for Completing PPQ Form 624A, Part 5-PPQ/CBP Port Worksheet

Block Instructions

FILE NO. VERIFY Blocks 1 through 4 of Part 5 -PPQ/CBP Port Worksheet 

are filled in (previously completed for Part 1)

1 The property described below was 

seized by USDA or DHS on...

2 DESCRIPTION OF PROPERTY

Common Name/Origin/Scientific Name/

Appendix Number/Source (Artificially 

Propagated or Wild)/Number of Plants, 

Parts, or Weight

3 DESCRIPTION OF PROPERTY 

(include any identifying numbers)

4 THIS PROPERTY WAS SEIZED 

BECAUSE

THIS WAS IN VIOLATION OF

5 APPRAISED VALUE $ LIST the appraised value (see Part 1, Block 6 of PPQ Form 

624A)

BASIS OF APPRAISAL LIST the source of the appraisal 

(seeStep 3: Estimate the Retail Value of the Timber or Articles 

Moving in Violation of the Legislation on page 4-8)

6 NAME OF PERSONS KNOWN TO 

HAVE AN INTEREST IN THE 

ARTICLES SEIZED

LIST the names of all persons believed to be owners or to have 

an interest in the seized material

PPQ 624A SENT LIST the date PPQ Form 624A, Part 4-Owner was mailed

PPQ 626 SENT LIST the date PPQ Form 626, Petition for Remission or 

Mitigation of Forfeiture of Forfeiture was mailed to the violator

PPQ 626 RECEIVED If PPQ Form PPQ Form 626, Petition for Remission or Mitigation 

of Forfeiture, is signed and returned from the violator, then LIST 

the date PPQ Form 626 is received
Forms and Permits

PPQ Form 624A, Notice for Seizure of Property Valued Greater Than $10,000

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual A-47

Distribution and Retention of PPQ Form 624A, Part 5-PPQ/

CBP Port Worksheet

File the yellow Part 5-PPQ/CBP Port Worksheet, of PPQ Form 624A, Notice 

for Seizure of Property Valued Greater Than $10,000, in the port file and retain 

for 5 years.

7 RECORD OF STEPS COMPLETED

a. PPQ 624A mailed by registered or 

certified mail to person(s) listed in 6., 

above

List the date and time Part 4-Owner is mailed to the person(s) 

listed in Block 6 of PPQ Form 624A, and INITIAL in the 

corresponding block

b. Date of final disposition of forfeited 

property according to law, or transfer of 

custody of property to other U.S. 

Government Agency (fill in name of 

agency)

When you receive notification of final disposition of the property, 

or notification the custody is transferred to another government 

agency, then LIST and the name of the government agency on 

the dotted line, and LIST the date and time, and INITIAL in the 

corresponding block 

RETAIN this form and copies of PPQ Form 624A (Parts 2, 3, and 5), PPQ Form 626, and any other 

documents applicable to this shipment for 5 years.

Table A-11 Instructions for Completing PPQ Form 624A, Part 5-PPQ/CBP Port Worksheet (continued)

Block Instructions
Forms and Permits

PPQ Form 625 Claim and Bond

A-48 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

PPQ Form 625 Claim and Bond ,

Figure A-20 Example of PPQ Form 625, Claim and Bond
Forms and Permits

PPQ Form 625 Claim and Bond

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual A-49

Purpose

PPQ Form 625, Claim and Bond, is used for seizures valued at $10,000 or less 

as part of a legal process in which the owner of the seized property attempts to 

regain custody of the property. 

Instructions

The CBP Agriculture Specialist (CBP-AS), PPQ Plant Health Safeguarding 

Specialist (PPQ-PHSS) or PPQ Export Certification Specialist (PPQ-ECS) 

lists the Port file number in the FILE NO. block. Do not complete any other 

blocks on this form. 

If the owner decides to file a Claim and Bond, then the owner will complete the 

form.

Distribution of PPQ Form 625

Distribute PPQ Form 625 as follows:

Seizures Valued at $10,000 or Less

If the owner or owner’s agent signs PPQ Form 623, Waiver of Forfeiture 

Procedures by Owner of Seized Property, then PPQ Form 625. Claim and 

Bond, is not sent.

If the owner or owner’s agent is present and will not sign PPQ Form 623 or is 

not present, then send PPQ Form 625, Claim and Bond, together with the 

following documents, by Certified or Registered Mail with Return Receipt 

Requested to the owner or owner’s agent at the last known address: 

PPQ Form 623, Waiver of Forfeiture Procedures by Owner of Seized 

Property

Part 4-Owner of PPQ Form 624, Notice for Seizure and Proposed 

Forfeiture of Property Valued at $10,000 or Less

PPQ Form 626, Petition for Remission or Mitigation of Forfeiture

Keep or make a copy of PPQ Form 625 and PPQ Form 626 for the port file 

prior to sending.

NOTICE

A bonded release will not be made if such an action would frustrate the purpose of 

the Act or Convention. As an example, 7CFR 356 does not allow the release of 

CITES regulated plants that are without the documentation required under 50CFR 

Chapter I

NOTICE

If multiple owners or agents are identified, then you may send photocopies of the 

required forms in lieu of the actual forms.
Forms and Permits

PPQ Form 626, Petition for Remission or Mitigation of Forfeiture

A-50 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

PPQ Form 626, Petition for Remission or Mitigation of Forfeiture 

Figure A-21 Example of PPQ Form 626, Petition for Remission or Mitigation of Forfeiture
Forms and Permits

PPQ Form 626, Petition for Remission or Mitigation of Forfeiture

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual A-51

Purpose

PPQ Form 626, Petition for Remission or Mitigation of Forfeiture, can be used 

by the owner or owner’s agent in the process of attempting to have the Deputy 

Administrator grant relief of the forfeited property. This form is used for 

seizures valued at $10,000 or less, and for seizures valued greater than 

$10,000. 

Instructions

The CPB Agriculture Specialist, PPQ Plant Health Safeguarding Specialist, or 

PPQ Export Certification Specialist lists the Port file number in the block 

labeled FILE NO. Do not complete any remaining blocks on this form. (If the 

owner decides to file the petition, then the owner completes the form.)

Distribution of PPQ Form 626

Distribute PPQ Form 626 based on if a seizure valued at $10,000 or less or a 

seizure valued at greater than $10,000.

Seizures Valued at $10,000 or Less

For seizures valued at $10,000 or less if the owner signs PPQ Form 623, then 

PPQ Form 626, Petition for Remission or Mitigation of Forfeiture, is not sent. 

If the owner or owner’s agent is present and did not sign PPQ Form 623, or is 

not present, then the CPB Agriculture Specialist, PPQ Plant Health 

Safeguarding Specialist, or PPQ Export Certification Specialist will do as 

follows:

Send PPQ Form 626, Petition for Remission or Mitigation of Forfeiture

together with the following documents, by Certified or Registered Mail

with Return Receipt Requested to all persons believed to be owners or 

agents:

PPQ Form 623, Waiver of Forfeiture Procedures by Owner of Seized 

Property 

PPQ Form 624, Notice for Seizure and Proposed Forfeiture of 

Property Valued at $10,000 or Less, Part 4-Owner

NOTICE

Remission and mitigation will not be made if such an action would frustrate the purpose of the Act or Convention. As an example, 7CFR 356 does not allow for remission or mitigation with respect to CITES regulated plants that are without the 

documentation required under 50CFR Chapter I.

NOTICE

If multiple owners or agents are identified, then you may send photocopies of the 

identified forms in lieu of the actual forms or blocks.
Forms and Permits

PPQ Form 626, Petition for Remission or Mitigation of Forfeiture

A-52 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

PPQ Form 625, Claim and Bond

Keep or make a copy of PPQ Form 625 and PPQ Form 626 for the port 

file prior to sending.

Seizures Valued Greater than $10,000

For seizures valued greater than $10,000, the CPB Agriculture Specialist, PPQ 

Plant Health Safeguarding Specialist, or PPQ Export Certification Specialist 

will do as follows:

Send PPQ Form 626, Petition for Remission or Mitigation of Forfeiture, 

together with the Part 4-Owner, of PPQ Form 624A, Notice for Seizure of 

Property Valued Greater Than $10,000, by Certified or Registered Mail

with Return Receipt Requested to all persons believed to be owners or 

agents at the last known address. 

Keep or make a copy for the port file prior to sending.

NOTICE

If multiple owners or agents are identified, then you may send photocopies of the 

identified forms in lieu of the actual forms or blocks.
Forms and Permits

PPQ Form 627, Declaration of Forfeiture

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual A-53

PPQ Form 627, Declaration of Forfeiture

This example below is for seizures valued at $10,000 or less. 

Figure A-22 Example of PPQ Form 627, Declaration of Forfeiture (for forfeitures valued at $10,000 or 

less)
Forms and Permits

PPQ Form 627, Declaration of Forfeiture

A-54 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83

Purpose

PPQ Form 627, Declaration of Forfeiture, is used to take custody of seized 

material that is valued at $10,000 or less.

Instructions

Forfeitures Valued at $10,000 or Less

For forfeitures valued at $10,000 or less, complete PPQ Form 627 as instructed 

in Table A-12. 

Table A-12 Instructions for Completing PPQ Form 627, Declaration of Forfeiture 

Block Instructions

FILE NO. LIST the port file number 

(see Filing System for Violations, Seizures, and Forfeitures)

1 The property... LIST in the appropriate blanks the date, time, place, city, and State 

where the property was seized

2 DESCRIPTION OF PROPERTY

Common Name LIST the common name of the article/wood seized

Scientific Name LIST the scientific name of the article/wood seized

Number of Plants or Parts LIST the number of plants or parts seized 

(see Conversion Formulas)

3 DESCRIPTION OF PROPERTY... List a description of the article seized 

4 THIS PROPERTY WAS SEIZED 

BECAUSE

LIST the reasons the articles were seized

THIS WAS IN VIOLATION OF LIST the CFR section and USC section of the regulation violated

(see List of Violations on page A-7, Figure A-3)

5 A NOTICE OF SEIZURE AND PROPOSED FORFEITURE WAS POSTED AT THE PLANT PROTECTION AND 

QUARANTINE OFFICE

AT LIST the location the notice was posted (city, State)

FROM LIST the date and time the notice was posted

TO LIST the date and time the notice was removed

6 COPIES OF THE NOTICE WERE MAILED 

OR HANDED TO THE FOLLOWING 

PERSONS

1. LIST each person’s name, interest in property, and business 

name that copies of the notice were mailed or given

2. If the owner or owner’s agent requests a copy of PPQ Form 

627, then MAKE a photocopy and GIVE the owner or owner’s 

agent the photocopy. You must also send the owner or owner’s 

agent the original PPQ Form 627 by Certified or Registered 

Mail with Return Receipt Requested to comply with 

regulations
Forms and Permits

PPQ Form 627, Declaration of Forfeiture

05/2023-83 CITES Timber Species Manual A-55

Distribution and Retention of PPQ Form 627

After 21 days, distribute and retain PPQ Form 627 as follows:

File Part 1 in the port file and retain for 5 years

Send Part 2 and Part 3 by Certified or Registered Mail with Return 

Receipt Requested, to the owner or owners of the seized material at their 

last known address 

7 In response.... LEAVE blank; do not write in this block

8 The above... LEAVE blank; do not write in this block

9 SIGNATURE OF PLANT PROTECTION 

AND QUARANTINE OFFICER

CBP Agriculture Specialist, PPQ Plant Health Safeguarding Specialist, or PPQ Agriculture Specialist SIGNS this block

10 Date LIST the date Block 9 is signed

Table A-12 Instructions for Completing PPQ Form 627, Declaration of Forfeiture (continued)

Block Instructions

NOTICE

If the owner or owner’s agent requests a copy of PPQ Form 627, then make a photocopy and 

give the owner or owner’s agent the photocopy. You must also send the original

Parts 2 and 3 to the owner or owner’s agent by Certified or Registered Mail with Return 

Receipt Requested, to comply with regulations.

NOTICE

If multiple owners or agents are identified, then you may send photocopies of the 

identified forms in lieu of actual forms.
Forms and Permits

PPQ Form 627, Declaration of Forfeiture

A-56 CITES Timber Species Manual 05/2023-83
10/2019-67 CITES Timber Species Manual B-1

Appendix

B

Conference Resolutions 

CITES Conference of the Parties

Contents

Introduction B-1

Conference Resolution 10.13 (Rev. CoP 15) Implementation of the Convention 

for Timber Species B-1

Conference Resolution 12.3 (Rev. CoP 15), Permits and Certificates B-4

Annex 1, Information that Should Be Included in CITES Permits and 

Certificates B-17

Annex 2, Standard CITES Form B-18

Introduction

This appendix contains the text of two current CITES Conference Resolutions 

which apply to CITES Appendix I, Appendix II, and Appendix III protected 

timber species. The CITES Conference is a biennial gathering of CITES 

member countries where the members review how a treaty is working, resolve 

policy issues, and determine which lists of species need amending.

Conference Resolution 10.13 (Rev. CoP 15) Implementation of the 

Convention for Timber Species 

An excerpt from Conference Resolution 10.13 (Rev. CoP15), Implementation 

of the Convention for Timber Species, is shown in Figure B-1. 

To view all CITES Conference Resolutions, go to the CITES Web site. 
Conference Resolutions

Conference Resolution 10.13 (Rev. CoP 15) Implementation of the Convention for Timber Species

B-2 CITES Timber Species Manual 10/2019-67

Figure B-1 Excerpt from CITES Conference Resolution 10.13 (Rev. CoP15), Implementation of the 

Convention for Timber Species (page 1 of 2)

Regarding parts and derivatives 

c) the following definitions be applied with respect to annotations in the CITES Appendices: 

 i) Logs

 All wood in the rough, whether or not stripped of bark or sapwood, or roughly squared, for 

processing, notably into sawn wood, pulpwood or veneer sheets (HS code 44.031

); 

 ii) Sawn wood

 Wood simply sawn lengthwise or produced by a profile-chipping process. Sawn wood normally 

exceeds 6 mm in thickness (HS code 44.061

, HS code 44.071); 

 iii) Veneer sheets

 Thin layers or sheets of wood of uniform thickness, usually 6 mm or less, usually peeled or 

sliced, for use in making plywood, for veneering furniture, veneer containers, etc. (HS code 

44.081

); and 

 iv) Plywood

 Consisting of three or more sheets of wood glued and pressed one on the other and generally 

disposed so that the grains of successive layers are at an angle (HS code 44.12.131

, HS code 

44.12.141

, and HS code 44.12.221); and 

d) for the purpose of annotations in the Appendices for parts and derivatives of species traded as 

timber, definitions to be used should, to the extent possible, be based on the tariff classifications of 

the Harmonized System of the World Customs Organization; 

Regarding amendment proposals for timber species 

e) proposals for the inclusion of timber species in Appendix II or III indicate clearly which parts and 

derivatives should be regulated; and 

f) where these parts and derivatives are not logs, sawn wood and veneer sheets, the proponent also 

propose the relevant amendment to Resolution Conf. 12.3 (Rev. CoP14) if the procedures for 

extending the period of validity of, and/or changing the destination on, the export permit or re-export 

certificate should apply; 

Regarding the definition of 'artificially propagated' 

g) timber or other parts or derivatives of trees grown in monospecific plantations be considered as being 

artificially propagated in accordance with the definition contained in Resolution Conf. 11.11 (Rev. 

CoP15); 
Conference Resolutions

Conference Resolution 10.13 (Rev. CoP 15) Implementation of the Convention for Timber Species

10/2019-67 CITES Timber Species Manual B-3

Figure B-2 Excerpt from CITES Conference Resolution 10.13 (Rev. CoP15) (continued page 2 of 2)

Regarding improvement of public understanding of the role of the Convention in the conservation 

of timber species

h) Parties consider any possible deleterious conservation and trade impacts before they impose stricter 

domestic measures on trade in timber specimens of species included in Appendix II or III; and 

i) Management Authorities work with governmental agencies (including local governments), nongovernmental organizations, industry and the general public to develop and provide information on 

the objectives, provisions and implementation of the Convention to counter the misconception that the 

inclusion of species in the Appendices represents a ban on the trade in specimens of these species, 

and to disseminate the message that international trade and utilization of timber species included in 

Appendices II and III are generally permitted and can be beneficial; 

Regarding timber species of concern

j) the range States pay particular attention to internationally traded timber species within their territories 

for which the knowledge of the biological status and silvicultural requirements gives cause for concern; 

and 

Regarding the establishment of export quotas for timber species 

k) whilst fully respecting the requirements of paragraphs 2 (a) and 3 of Article IV of the Convention, 

Parties exporting timber specimens from species listed in Appendix II consider establishing voluntary 

annual national export quotas for such exports. 

* Amended at the 13th, 14th and 15th meetings of the Conference of the Parties. 

1 HS refers to the Harmonized System of the World Customs Organization describing and coding goods in trade. The 

codes referred to in this document for timber include the following: 

 44.03 Wood in the rough, whether or not stripped of bark or sapwood, or roughly squared 

 44.06 Railway or tramway sleepers of wood 

 44.07 Wood sawn or chipped lengthwise, sliced or peeled, whether or not planed, sanded or finger-jointed, of a 

thickness exceeding 6 mm 

 44.08 Veneer sheets and sheets for plywood (whether or not spliced) and other wood sawn lengthwise, sliced or 

peeled, whether or not planed, sanded or finger-jointed, of a thickness not exceeding 6 mm 

 44.12.13 Plywood consisting solely of sheets of wood, each ply not exceeding 6 mm in thickness, and with at least one 

outer ply of tropical wood specified in Subheading Note 1 below†

 44.12.14 Plywood consisting solely of sheets of wood, each ply not exceeding 6 mm in thickness, and with at least one 

outer ply of non-coniferous wood 

 44.12.22 Other (meaning one ply, or more, that is greater than 6 mm in thickness), with at least one outer ply of nonconiferous wood, and with at least one ply of tropical wood specified in Subheading Note 1 below† † 

 

 † 

†

Subheading Note 1: For the purposes of subheadings 44.03.41 to 44.03.49, 44.07.24 to 44.07.29, 44.08.31 

to 44.08.39, and 44.12.13 to 44.12.99, the expression ‘tropical wood’ means one of the following types of 

wood: 

Abura, Acajou d'Afrique, Afrormosia, Ako, Alan, Andiroba, Aningré, Avodiré, Azobé, Balau, Balsa, Bossé 

clair, Bossé foncé, Cativo, Cedro, Dabema, Dark Red Meranti, Dibétou, Doussié, Framiré, Freijo, 

Fromager, Fuma, Geronggang, Ilomba, Imbuia, Ipé, Iroko, Jaboty, Jelutong, Jequitiba, Jongkong, Kapur, 

Kempas, Keruing, Kosipo, Kotibé, Koto, Light Red Meranti, Limba, Louro, Maçaranduba, Mahogany, 

Makoré, Mandioqueira, Mansonia, Mengkulang, Meranti Bakau, Merawan, Merbau, Merpauh, Mersawa, 

Moabi, Niangon, Nyatoh, Obeche, Okoumé, Onzabili, Orey, Ovengkol, Ozigo, Padauk, Paldao, Palissandre 

de Guatemala, Palissandre de Para, Palissandre de Rio, Palissandre de Rose, Pau Amarelo, Pau Marfim, 

Pulai, Punah, Quaruba, Ramin, Sapelli, Saqui-Saqui, Sepetir, Sipo, Sucupira, Suren, Teak, Tauari, Tiama, 

Tola, Virola, White Lauan, White Meranti, White Seraya, Yellow Meranti. 
Conference Resolutions

Conference Resolution 12.3 (Rev. CoP 15), Permits and Certificates

B-4 CITES Timber Species Manual 10/2019-67

Conference Resolution 12.3 (Rev. CoP 15), Permits and Certificates

An excerpt from Conference Resolution 12.3 (Rev. CoP 15), Permits and 

Certificates, is shown in the figures below. 

To view 12.3 in its entirety, and all CITES Conference Resolutions, see http://

www.cites.org/eng/res/index.php.
Conference Resolutions

Conference Resolution 12.3 (Rev. CoP 15), Permits and Certificates

10/2019-67 CITES Timber Species Manual B-5

Figure B-3 Excerpt from CITES Conference Resolution 12.3 (Rev. CoP15), Permits and Certificates 

(page 1 of 12)
Conference Resolutions

Conference Resolution 12.3 (Rev. CoP 15), Permits and Certificates

B-6 CITES Timber Species Manual 10/2019-67

Figure B-4 Excerpt from CITES Conference Resolution 12.3 (Rev. CoP15), Permits and Certificates 

(page 2 of 12)
Conference Resolutions

Conference Resolution 12.3 (Rev. CoP 15), Permits and Certificates

10/2019-67 CITES Timber Species Manual B-7

Figure B-5 Excerpt from CITES Conference Resolution 12.3 (Rev. CoP15), Permits and Certificates 

(page 3 of 12)
Conference Resolutions

Conference Resolution 12.3 (Rev. CoP 15), Permits and Certificates

B-8 CITES Timber Species Manual 10/2019-67

Figure B-6 Excerpt from CITES Conference Resolution 12.3 (Rev. CoP15), Permits and Certificates 

(page 4 of 12)
Conference Resolutions

Conference Resolution 12.3 (Rev. CoP 15), Permits and Certificates

10/2019-67 CITES Timber Species Manual B-9

Figure B-7 Excerpt from CITES Conference Resolution 12.3 (Rev. CoP15), Permits and Certificates 

(page 5 of 12)
Conference Resolutions

Conference Resolution 12.3 (Rev. CoP 15), Permits and Certificates

B-10 CITES Timber Species Manual 10/2019-67

Figure B-8 Excerpt from CITES Conference Resolution 12.3 (Rev. CoP15), Permits and Certificates 

(page 6 of 12)
Conference Resolutions

Conference Resolution 12.3 (Rev. CoP 15), Permits and Certificates

10/2019-67 CITES Timber Species Manual B-11

Figure B-9 Excerpt from CITES Conference Resolution 12.3 (Rev. CoP15), Permits and Certificates 

(page 7 of 12)
Conference Resolutions

Conference Resolution 12.3 (Rev. CoP 15), Permits and Certificates

B-12 CITES Timber Species Manual 10/2019-67

Figure B-10 Excerpt from CITES Conference Resolution 12.3 (Rev. CoP15), Permits and Certificates 

(page 8 of 12)
Conference Resolutions

Conference Resolution 12.3 (Rev. CoP 15), Permits and Certificates

10/2019-67 CITES Timber Species Manual B-13

Figure B-11 Excerpt from CITES Conference Resolution 12.3 (Rev. CoP15), Permits and Certificates 

(page 9 of 12)
Conference Resolutions

Conference Resolution 12.3 (Rev. CoP 15), Permits and Certificates

B-14 CITES Timber Species Manual 10/2019-67

Figure B-12 Excerpt from CITES Conference Resolution 12.3 (Rev. CoP15), Permits and Certificates 

(page 10 of 12
Conference Resolutions

Conference Resolution 12.3 (Rev. CoP 15), Permits and Certificates

10/2019-67 CITES Timber Species Manual B-15

Figure B-13 Excerpt from CITES Conference Resolution 12.3 (Rev. CoP15), Permits and Certificates 

(page 11 of 12)
Conference Resolutions

Conference Resolution 12.3 (Rev. CoP 15), Permits and Certificates

B-16 CITES Timber Species Manual 10/2019-67

Figure B-14 Excerpt from CITES Conference Resolution 12.3 (Rev. CoP15), Permits and Certificates 

(page 12 of 12)
Conference Resolutions

Conference Resolution 12.3 (Rev. CoP 15), Permits and Certificates

10/2019-67 CITES Timber Species Manual B-17

Annex 1, Information that Should Be Included in CITES 

Permits and Certificates 

Figure B-15 Annex 1, Information That Should Be Included in CITES Permits and Certifications
Conference Resolutions

Conference Resolution 12.3 (Rev. CoP 15), Permits and Certificates

B-18 CITES Timber Species Manual 10/2019-67

Annex 2, Standard CITES Form

Figure B-16 Annex 2, Standard CITES Form (CoP15) (front)
Conference Resolutions

Conference Resolution 12.3 (Rev. CoP 15), Permits and Certificates

10/2019-67 CITES Timber Species Manual B-19

Figure B-17 Annex 2, Standard CITES Form (CoP15) (back)
Conference Resolutions

Conference Resolution 12.3 (Rev. CoP 15), Permits and Certificates

B-20 CITES Timber Species Manual 10/2019-67
10/2019-67 CITES Timber Species Manual C-1

Appendix

C

Conversion Formulas

Contents

Conversion Formulas for Timber and Timber Products C-1

Board Feet of Lumber to Cubic Meters C-1

Cubic Feet of Lumber to Cubic Meters C-2

Conversion Formula for Dowel Rods C-3

Volume of a Cylinder in Inches to Cubic Meters C-3

Conversion Formula for Logs C-4

Volume of a Log C-4

Conversion Formulas for Veneer C-5

Square Feet of Veneer to Square Meters C-5

Square Meters of Veneer to Cubic Meters C-5

Cubic Feet of Veneer to Cubic Meters C-6

Conversion Formulas for Timber and Timber Products

Use the following formulas to assist you with verifying that the quantity 

recorded on the CITES Permit or Certificate matches the quantity invoiced on 

the accompanying shipping documents. 

These conversions should also be made by the importer or exporter so that the 

total quantity of CITES regulated material recorded on the shipping documents 

is expressed in the same unit of measurement found on the CITES Permit or 

Certificate. 

Board Feet of Lumber to Cubic Meters

There are 424 board feet per cubic meter. To convert board feet of lumber to 

cubic meters, divide the board feet of lumber by 424 board feet. See the 

equation in Figure C-1 below. 

Total board feet of lumber = cubic meters of lumber

424 board feet 

Figure C-1 Formula to Convert Board Feet of Lumber to Cubic Meters
Conversion Formulas

Conversion Formulas for Timber and Timber Products

C-2 CITES Timber Species Manual 10/2019-67

Some countries may express board feet in pie tablares (PT.). Since 

1 PT. is equal to one board foot, change the total PT to total board feet of 

lumber, then continue using the formula in Figure C-1 above to convert to 

cubic meters of lumber. 

Cubic Feet of Lumber to Cubic Meters

See Figure C-2 for the conversion formula. 

EXAMPLE A shipment of 1000 board feet of lumber arrives at your port. Use the following calculation to convert this shipment to cubic meters of lumber:

cubic feet x 0.02832 = cubic meters

Figure C-2 Formula to Convert Cubic Feet of Lumber to Cubic Meters

NOTICE

Where: cubic feet of lumber = (lumber length in feet) x (lumber width in feet) x (lumber thickness in feet)

Lumber dimensions in feet = lumber length x width x thickness in inches/12

The conversion of cubic feet of lumber to cubic meters may be difficult because the formula 

depends upon the multiplication of the number of square meters and the thickness of wood, 

which could be variable. In this case, the CPB AS, PPQ PHSS, or PPQ ECS should have the 

permittee perform the conversion and then have the permittee supply the CPB AS, PPQ 

PHSS, or PPQ ECS with a copy of the calculations.

EXAMPLE A shipment of 10,000 square feet of lumber approximately 1 inch thick 

arrives at your port. Use the following calculation to convert this shipment to 

cubic meters:

10,000 square feet of lumber x 1/12 = 833.33 cubic feet

833.33 x 0.02832 = 23.6 cubic meters

(1000 board feet of lumber)

(424 board feet)

------------------------------------------------------------------ 2.36 cubic meters of lumber =
Conversion Formulas

Conversion Formula for Dowel Rods

10/2019-67 CITES Timber Species Manual C-3

Conversion Formula for Dowel Rods

Volume of a Cylinder in Inches to Cubic Meters

To convert cubic inches of dowel to cubic meters, use the formula in 

Figure C-3.

(Cubic inches of dowel) x (.0000164) = cubic meters of dowel

Figure C-3 Formula to Convert Volume of a Cylinder in Inches to Cubic Meters

Where volume of cylinder in cubic inches =

 (3.14) x (radius of dowel in inches)2 x (length of dowel in inches) x (total number of dowels)

Figure C-4 Formula to Convert Volume of Cylinder to Cubic Inches

EXAMPLE A shipment of containing 100,000 ramin dowels (each measure 1/4 inch in 

diameter by 16 inches in length) arrives at your port. Use the following formula to convert this shipment to cubic meters:

Radius = 1/2 diameter

R = 1/4 =.25 x 1/2 =.125

(3.14) x (.125)2 x 16 inches x 100,000 = 78,500 cubic inches of dowel

(78,500 cubic inches of dowel) x (.0000164) = 1.287 cubic meters of dowel


Conversion Formulas

Conversion Formula for Logs

C-4 CITES Timber Species Manual 10/2019-67

Conversion Formula for Logs

Volume of a Log

A tape measure and a calculator are needed to estimate the volume of a log. 

The volume determination requires the officer to do as follows:

1. Take the average diameter of the log by measuring the largest end and 

smallest end (excluding bark if present) and divide by 2.

2. Divide the average diameter by 2 to calculate the average radius (r).

3. Use the formula for the volume of a cylinder, and insert the average radius 

of the log (i.e., 3.14 x r2

 x length).

4. Convert from cubic inches to cubic meters. 

Figure C-5 Formula for Volume of a Log

EXAMPLE A log taken from the shipment is 84 inches log. Excluding bark, the large end 

measures 10 inches and the small end measures 8 inches.

1.  d

 



 





2

large diameter small diameter

(average diameter of a log)

2. r d

 



 





2

 (average radius of a log) 

3. length of log volume in cubic inches 2 .3 14 r  

 

4. Volume in cubic inches x (.000164) = cubic meter volume 

"9

2

10 8  

 average diameter

"5.4 average radius

"

2

9 

84 5341.14 cubic inch volum e

2 3.14 4.5 

5341.14  .0000164  .0876 cubic meter volume 

1. 

2. 

3.

4.
Conversion Formulas

Conversion Formulas for Veneer

10/2019-67 CITES Timber Species Manual C-5

Conversion Formulas for Veneer

Square Feet of Veneer to Square Meters

Use the formula below to convert square feet of veneer to square meters.

Square Meters of Veneer to Cubic Meters

Use the formula in Figure C-7 to convert square meters of veneer to cubic 

meters. 

Where: (square feet of veneer) = (length of veneer in feet) x (width of veneer in feet) and the

(square feet of veneer) x (0.0929) = square meters of veneer

Figure C-6 Formula to Convert Square Feet of Veneer to Square Meters 

EXAMPLE A shipment of 25,000 square feet of veneer arrives at your port. Use the following calculation to convert this shipment to square meters:

(25,000 square feet of veneer) x (0.0929) = 2322.5 square meters

(Square meters of veneer) x (Veneer thickness in meters) = Cubic meters of veneer

Where: (square meters of Veneer) = 

(length of veneer in meters) x (width of veneer in meters) 

veneer thickness in meters= (veneer thickness in millimeters) /1000

This conversion formula depends on the multiplication of the number of square meters and 

the thickness of wood, which could be variable. In this case, have the permittee perform the 

conversion and provide you with a copy of the calculations.

Figure C-7 Formula to Convert Square Meters of Veneer to Cubic Meters

EXAMPLE A shipment of 25,000 square meters of veneer 0.6 millimeters thick arrives at 

your port. Use the following calculation would convert this shipment to cubic 

meters:

(25,000 square meters of veneer) x (0.6) meter = 15 cubic meters of veneer

1000
Conversion Formulas

Conversion Formulas for Veneer

C-6 CITES Timber Species Manual 10/2019-67

Cubic Feet of Veneer to Cubic Meters 

To convert cubic feet of veneer to cubic meters, use the formula in Figure C-8. 

This conversion formula depends on the multiplication of the number of square 

feet and the thickness of wood, which could be variable. In this case, have the 

permittee perform the conversion and provide you with a copy of the 

calculations.

(cubic feet of veneer) x (0.02832) = cubic meters of veneer

Where: (cubic feet of veneer) = (length of veneer in feet) x (width of veneer in feet) x veneer 

thickness in feet

Veneer dimensions in feet = veneer length x width x thickness, in inches/12

Figure C-8 Formula to Convert Cubic Feet of Veneer to Cubic Meters

EXAMPLE A shipment of 25,000 square feet of veneer 1/16 of an inch thick arrives at 

your port. Use the following calculation to convert this shipment to cubic 

meters:

(25,000 square feet of veneer) x (1/16)/12 = 130.21 cubic feet x 0.2832 = 

3.687 cubic meters
11/2019-68 CITES Timber Species Manual D-1

Appendix

D Harmonized System of the 

World

Customs Organization

Contents

Introduction D-1

Harmonized System of World Customs Organization (HS) Codes D-1

Introduction

This appendix contains the Harmonized System of the World Customs 

Organization (HS) codes describing and coding goods in trade. 

Harmonized System of World Customs Organization (HS) Codes

The following Harmonized System of World Customs Organization (HS) 

codes are referred to in the CITES I-II-III Timber Species Manual.

HS Code 44.03 

Wood in the rough, whether or not stripped of bark or sapwood, or roughly 

squared.

HS Code 44.06

Railway or tramway sleepers of wood.

HS Code 44.07 

Wood sawn or chipped lengthwise, sliced or peeled, whether or not planed, 

sanded or finger-jointed, of a thickness exceeding 6 mm.

HS Code 44.08

Veneer sheets and sheets for plywood (whether or not spliced) and other wood 

sawn lengthwise, sliced or peeled, whether or not planed, sanded or fingerjointed, of a thickness not exceeding 6 mm.

HS Code 44.09

Wood (including strips, friezes for parquet flooring, not assembled), 

continuously shaped (tongued, grooved, v-jointed, beaded or the like) along 

any edges, ends or faces, whether or not planed, sanded or end-jointed.
Harmonized System of the World

Harmonized System of World Customs Organization (HS) Codes

D-2 CITES Timber Species Manual 11/2019-68

HS Code 44.12.13

Plywood consisting solely of sheets of wood, each ply not exceeding 6mm in 

thickness, and with at least one outer ply of tropical wood specified in 

Subheading Note1.

HS Code 44.12.14

Plywood consisting solely of sheets of wood, each ply not exceeding 6 mm in 

thickness, and with at least one outer ply of non-coniferous wood.

HS Code 44.12.22

Other (meaning one ply or more, that is greater than 6 mm in thickness), with 

at least one outer ply of non-coniferous wood, and with at least one ply of 

tropical wood specified in Subheading Note 1. 

1 Subheading Note 1: For the purposes of subheadings 4403.41 to 443.49, 4407.24 to 440729, 

4408.31 to 4408.39, and 4412.13 to 4412.99, the expression “etropical wood” means one of the 

following types of wood: Abura, Acajou d’Afrique, Afrormosia, Ako, Alan, Andiroba, Aningre, Avodire, 

Azobe, Balau, Balsa, Bosse Clair, Bosse Fonce, Cativo, Cedro, Dabema, Dark Red Meranti, 

Dibetou, Doussie, Framire, Freijo, Fromager, Fuma, Geronggang, llomba, Imbuia, Ipe, Iroko, Jaboty, 

Jelutong, Jequitiba, Jongkong, Kapur, Kempas, Keruing, Kosipo, Kotibe, Koto, Light Red Meranti, 

Limba, Louro, Macaranduba, Mahogany, Makore, Mandioquiera, Mansonia, Mengkulang, Meranti 

Bakau, Merawan, Merbau, Merpauh, Mersawa, Moabi, Niangon, Nyatoh, Obeche, Okoume, 

Onzabili, Orey, Ovengkol, Ozigo, Padauk, Paldao, Palissandre de Guatemala, Palissandre de Para, 

Palissandre de Rio, Palissandre de Rose, Pau Amarelo, Pau Marfim, Pulai, Punah, Quaruba, 

Ramin, Sapelli, Saqui-Saqui, Sepetir, Sipo, Sucupira, Suren, Teak, Tauari, Tiama, Tola, Virola, White 

Lauan, White Meranti, White Seraya, Yellow Meranti.
02/2023-82 CITES Timber Species Manual E-1

Appendix

E

Wood Identification

CITES Timber Species

Contents

Introduction E-2

Procedures E-2

Materials Needed E-2

Wood Identification E-2

CITES Protected Timber Species E-3

Abies guatemalensis (Guatemalan fir) E-3

Afzelia spp. (pod mahogany) E-3

Aniba rosaeodora (Brazilian rosewood) E-4

Araucaria araucana (monkey puzzle tree) E-4

Bulnesia sarmientoi (gaiacwood) E-4

Caryocar costaricense (ajillo) E-5

Caryocar costaricense (ajillo) E-5

Cedrela odorata (Spanish cedar) E-6

Dalbergia spp. (rosewoods) E-7

Dalbergia nigra (Brazilian rosewood) E-7

Diospyros spp. (ebonies) E-9

Dipteryx panamensis (tonka bean) E-9

Fitzroya cupressoides (alerce) E-10

Fraxinus mandshurica (manchurian ash) E-10

Gonystylus spp. (ramin) E-11

Guaiacum spp. (lignum vitae) E-12

Guibourtia demeusei (red bubinga) E-13

Guibourtia pellegriniana (rose bubinga) E-13

Guibourtia tessmannii (rose bubinga) E-13

Khaya spp. (African mahogany) E-13

Magnolia liliifera var. obovata E-14

Paubrasilia echinata (Brazilwood) E-15

Pericopsis elata (Afrormosia) E-16

Pilgerodendron uviferum (pilgerodendron) E-16

Pinus koraiensis (Korean pine) E-16

Platymiscium pleiostachyum (cristobal, granadillo) E-17

Podocarpus neriifolius (podocarp) E-18

Podocarpus parlatorei (Parlatore’s podocarp) E-19

Prunus africana (African cherry, pygeum) E-19

Pterocarpus spp. (African rosewood, kosso) E-19

Pterocarpus santalinus (red sandalwood, redsanders) E-20

Quercus mongolica (mongolian ash) E-20
Wood Identification

Introduction

E-2 CITES Timber Species Manual 02/2023-82

Senna meridionalis (taraby) E-20

Swietenia humilis (Pacific Coast mahogany) E-21

Swietenia macrophylla (bigleaf mahogany) E-22

Swietenia mahogani (Caribbean mahogany) E-25

Tetracentron sinense (tetracentron) E-25

Introduction

The Wood Identification appendix is a synopsis for wood identification of 

articles and commodities derived from CITES Appendix I, II, and III timber 

species. Wood identification is a difficult task. Become more familiar with 

wood by using this synopsis. 

Procedures

Materials Needed

You will need the following materials to identify the wood, since the process 

usually cannot be accurately performed with the naked eye:

14X power hand lens 

Sharp knife (pen knife or utility knife)

Single-edge razor blade

If you suspect the commodity or article is something other than invoiced, then 

attempt to verify the article. If you are having difficulty with the identification, 

then contact a PPQ Botanist 1 (CBP contact a PPQ Botanist through proper 

channels) for assistance.

Wood Identification

Follow each step below to identify the wood:

1. Use a sharp knife or razor blade to slice the end or cross grain (transverse 

section) of a piece of lumber.

2. Examine the sliced wood with a hand lens.

3. Check to see if the wood sample has vessels (pores).

4. Compare what you view through the lens with the specific CITES 

Appendix I, Appendix II, or Appendix III protected timber species 

examples on the following pages.

5. Verify the features of your sample with the features listed in the 

accompanying description for each wood species.

1 CBP and PPQ: To identify the name of the PPQ Botanist that services your port, see the List of PPQ 

Identifiers and National Specialists.
Wood Identification

CITES Protected Timber Species

02/2023-82 CITES Timber Species Manual E-3

CITES Protected Timber Species

Examples of CITES protected timber species follow. Use the following 

descriptions and examples of protected CITES timber for comparison with the 

timber or article presented for import or re-export.

Abies guatemalensis (Guatemalan fir)

Abies guatemalensis (Guatemalan fir) is a softwood. 

To identify the wood, check the following:

Heartwood is light brown

Latewood is prominent (see Figure E-1 below)

Resin canals are absent

Wood is light in color, soft, and lightweight

Afzelia spp. (pod mahogany)

Afzelia spp. (pod mahogany) is a hardwood. The description and an example 

are not available.

LW—latewood

Photo by Alex Wiedenhoeft

Figure E-1 Example of Abies guatemalensis (Guatemalan fir) Wood Cross 

Section
Wood Identification

CITES Protected Timber Species

E-4 CITES Timber Species Manual 02/2023-82

Aniba rosaeodora (Brazilian rosewood) 

Aniba rosaeodora (Brazilian rosewood) is a hardwood. The description and an 

example are not available. 

Araucaria araucana (monkey puzzle tree)

Araucaria araucana (monkey puzzle tree) is a softwood. 

To identify the wood, check the following:

Heartwood pinkish- to light brownish-red

Latewood is absent or barely visible

Resin canals are absent

Wood is soft and lightweight 

Bulnesia sarmientoi (gaiacwood) 

Bulnesia sarmientoi (gaiacwood) is a hardwood. The description and an 

example are not available. 

Photo by Alex Wiedenhoeft

Figure E-2 Example of Araucaria araucana (Monkey puzzle tree) Wood Cross 

Section
Wood Identification

CITES Protected Timber Species

02/2023-82 CITES Timber Species Manual E-5

Caryocar costaricense (ajillo)

Caryocar costaricense (ajillo) is a hardwood.

To identify the wood, check the following:

Heartwood is moderately hard and heavy

Parenchyma: banded apotracheal parenchyma in short, patchy bands

Rays are not storied

Tyloses are present

Vessels and vessel multiples are arranged diffusely and may be clogged 

with bubbles

Wood is not ring porous

Wood is light tan to light brown

BAP—banded apotracheal parenchyma

MV—multiple vessels

Photo by Alex Wiedenhoeft

Figure E-3 Example of Caryocar costaricense (Ajillo) Wood Cross Section 
Wood Identification

CITES Protected Timber Species

E-6 CITES Timber Species Manual 02/2023-82

Cedrela odorata (Spanish cedar)

Cedrela odorata (Spanish cedar) is a hardwood.

To identify the wood, check the following:

 Heartwood is pale pinkish- to reddish-brown (sometimes with a purplish 

tinge)

Odor is distinctive, spicy cedar

Parenchyma: paratracheal parenchyma forms a thin ring around the 

vessels; marginal parenchyma forms thick bands

Rays are not storied

Wood is ring porous

Wood is relatively soft and moderately heavy to light

MP—marginal parenchyma

PP—paratracheal parenchyma

RPW—ring porous wood

Photo by Alex Wiedenhoeft

Figure E-4 Example of Cedrela odorata (Spanish cedar) Wood Cross Section
Wood Identification

CITES Protected Timber Species

02/2023-82 CITES Timber Species Manual E-7

Dalbergia spp. (rosewoods)

Dalbergia spp. (rosewoods) are hardwoods. 

Dalbergia nigra (Brazilian rosewood)

Dalbergia nigra (Brazilian rosewood) is a hardwood. 

To identify the wood, check the following:

Odor is pleasant, faintly sweet or spicy

Parenchyma: aliform paratracheal parenchyma present; banded 

apotracheal parenchyma with prominent bands, irregularly spaced; 

parenchyma arrangements vary considerably

Rays medium-storied

Vessels large, relatively numerous

Wood is not ring porous

Wood is dark brown to black with darker streaks, hard, and heavy

APP—aliform paratracheal parenchyma

BAP—banded apotracheal parenchyma

Photo by Alex Wiedenhoeft

Figure E-5 Example of Dalbergia nigra (Brazilian rosewood) Wood Cross 

Section
Wood Identification

CITES Protected Timber Species

E-8 CITES Timber Species Manual 02/2023-82

Photo by Bud Petit de Manage

Figure E-6 Dalbergia nigra (Brazilian rosewood) Rough Sawn Lumber

Photo by Bud Petit de Manage

Figure E-7 Dalbergia nigra (Brazilian rosewood) Rough Sawn Lumber
Wood Identification

CITES Protected Timber Species

02/2023-82 CITES Timber Species Manual E-9

Diospyros spp. (ebonies)

Diospyros spp. (ebonies) description and examples are not available.

Dipteryx panamensis (tonka bean)

Dipteryx panamensis (tonka bean) is a hardwood. The description and an 

example are not available.
Wood Identification

CITES Protected Timber Species

E-10 CITES Timber Species Manual 02/2023-82

Fitzroya cupressoides (alerce)

Fitzroya cupressoides (alerce) is a softwood.

To identify the wood, check the following:

Heartwood is dark red to reddish brown

Latewood is in relatively narrow bands; transition is abrupt between 

earlywood and latewood (see Figure E-8)

Resin canals are absent

Wood is moderately hard and heavy

Fraxinus mandshurica (manchurian ash) 

Fraxinus mandshurica (manchurian ash) is a hardwood. The description and 

an example are not yet available.

EW—earlywood

GR—growth ring

LW—latewood

Photo by Alex Wiedenhoeft

Figure E-8 Example of Fitzroya cupressoides (Alerce) Wood Cross Section
Wood Identification

CITES Protected Timber Species

02/2023-82 CITES Timber Species Manual E-11

Gonystylus spp. (ramin)

Gonystylus spp. (ramin) is a hardwood.

To identify the wood, check the following:

Heartwood is whitish to pale yellow

Parenchyma: distinct aliform parenchyma; marginal parenchyma 

sometimes present

Wood is not ring porous

Vessels are mostly solitary; some in radial multiples of 2 or 3

Wood is moderately hard and heavy

APP—aliform paratracheal parenchyma

MV—multiple vessels

Photo by Alex Wiedenhoeft

Figure E-9 Example of Gonystylus spp. (Ramin) Wood Cross Section
Wood Identification

CITES Protected Timber Species

E-12 CITES Timber Species Manual 02/2023-82

Guaiacum spp. (lignum vitae)

Guaiacum spp. (lignum vitae) is a hardwood. 

To identify the wood, check the following:

Heartwood ranges from dark greenish to black or dark brown

Rays are fine-storied 

Vessels are small, barely visible, and mostly solitary

Wood is not ring porous

Wood is extremely hard and heavy 

NOTICE

Although all species of Guaiacum are protected under CITES Appendix II, only two examples 

are shown in this appendix.

Photo by Alex Wiedenhoeft

Figure E-10 Example of Guaiacum officinale (Commoner lignum vitae) Wood 

Cross Section

Photo by Alex Wiedenhoeft

Figure E-11 Example of Guaiacum sanctum (Holy lignum vitae) Wood Cross 

Section
Wood Identification

CITES Protected Timber Species

02/2023-82 CITES Timber Species Manual E-13

Guibourtia demeusei (red bubinga)

Guibourtia demeusei (red bubinga) is a hardwood. A description and examples 

are not available.

Guibourtia pellegriniana (rose bubinga)

Guibourtia pellegriniana (rose bubinga) is a hardwood. A description and 

examples are not available.

Guibourtia tessmannii (rose bubinga)

Guibourtia tessmannii (rose bubinga) is a hardwood. A description and 

examples are not available.

Khaya spp. (African mahogany)

Khaya spp. (African mahogany) is a hardwood. The description and an 

example are not available.
Wood Identification

CITES Protected Timber Species

E-14 CITES Timber Species Manual 02/2023-82

Magnolia liliifera var. obovata

Magnolia liliifera var. obovata is a hardwood.

To identify the wood, check the following:

Heartwood is light brown, sometimes with a greenish tinge

Parenchyma: marginal parenchyma is present and conspicuous

Rays are not storied

Vessels are often in multiples

Wood is not ring porous

Wood is moderately hard and heavy

MP—marginal parenchyma

MV—multiple vessels

Photo by Alex Wiedenhoeft

Figure E-12 Example of Magnolia liliifera var. obovata (Ramin) Wood Cross 

Section
Wood Identification

CITES Protected Timber Species

02/2023-82 CITES Timber Species Manual E-15

Oreomunnea pterocarpa (gavilan)

Oreomunnea pterocarpa (gavilan) is a hardwood. 

To identify the wood, check the following:

Heartwood color is light brown

Parenchyma: banded apotracheal parenchyma is present in long, wavy 

bands

Rays are not storied

Vessels mostly solitary, in radial or angled files

Wood is not ring porous

Wood is relatively soft and lightweight

Osyris lanceolata (African sandalwood)

Osyris lanceolata (African sandalwood) description and an example are not

available.

Paubrasilia echinata (Brazilwood)

Paubrasilia echinata (Brazilwood) is a hardwood. The description and an 

example are not available.

BAP–banded apotracheal parenchyma

V–Vessels (pores)

Photo by Alex Wiedenhoeft

Figure E-13 Example of Oreomunnea pterocarpa (Gavilan [Walnut]) Wood 

Cross Section
Wood Identification

CITES Protected Timber Species

E-16 CITES Timber Species Manual 02/2023-82

Pericopsis elata (Afrormosia)

Pericopsis elata (Afrormosia) is a hardwood. 

To identify the wood, check the following:

Heartwood is medium to dark brown

Parenchyma: aliform paratracheal parenchyma and confluent paratracheal 

parenchyma are present

Rays are medium-storied (often hard to detect)

Vessels are numerous (barley visible to the naked eye)

Wood is not ring porous

Wood is moderately hard and heavy

Pilgerodendron uviferum (pilgerodendron)

Pilgerodendron uviferum (pilgerodendron) is a softwood. A description and an 

example are not available.

Pinus koraiensis (Korean pine)

Pinus koraiensis (Korean pine) is a softwood. The description and an example 

are not available.

APP—aliform paratracheal parenchyma

CPP—confluent paratracheal parenchyma

Photo by Alex Wiedenhoeft

Figure E-14 Example of Pericopsis elata (Afrormosia) Wood Cross Section
Wood Identification

CITES Protected Timber Species

02/2023-82 CITES Timber Species Manual E-17

Platymiscium pleiostachyum (cristobal, granadillo)

Platymiscium pleiostachyum (cristobal, granadillo) is a hardwood.

To identify the wood, check the following:

Heartwood is reddish brown, usually with a purplish cast

Parenchyma: lozenge aliform paratracheal parenchyma are present

Rays are storied medium

Vessels are large and numerous (visible to the naked eye)

Wood is not ring porous

Wood is hard and heavy

LAPP—lozenge aliform paratracheal parenchyma

Photo by Alex Wiedenhoeft

Figure E-15 Example of Platymiscium pleiostachyum (Cristobal, Granadillo) 

Wood Cross Section
Wood Identification

CITES Protected Timber Species

E-18 CITES Timber Species Manual 02/2023-82

Podocarpus neriifolius (podocarp)

Podocarpus neriifolius (podocarp) is a softwood.

To identify the wood, check the following:

Heartwood is light brown or tan

Resin canals are absent

Wood is light in color; soft, and lightweight

Photo by Alex Wiedenhoeft

Figure E-16 Example of Podocarpus neriifolius (Podocarp) Wood Cross Section
Wood Identification

CITES Protected Timber Species

02/2023-82 CITES Timber Species Manual E-19

Podocarpus parlatorei (Parlatore’s podocarp)

Podocarpus parlatorei (Parlatore’s podocarp) is a softwood.

To identify the wood, check the following:

Heartwood is light brown or tan

Resin canals are absent

Wood is light in color, relatively soft and lightweight

Prunus africana (African cherry, pygeum)

Prunus africana (African cherry, pygeum) description and an example are not

available.

Pterocarpus spp. (African rosewood, kosso)

Pterocarpus spp. (African rosewood, kosso) description and an example are 

not available.

Photo by Alex Wiedenhoeft

Figure E-17 Example of Podocarpus parlatorei (Parlatore’s podocarp) Wood 

Cross Section
Wood Identification

CITES Protected Timber Species

E-20 CITES Timber Species Manual 02/2023-82

Pterocarpus santalinus (red sandalwood, redsanders)

Pterocarpus santalinus (red sandalwood, redsanders) is a hardwood.

To identify the wood, check the following:

Heartwood is dark red to reddish brown

Parenchyma: aliform paratracheal parenchyma and prominent banded 

apotracheal parenchyma are present

Rays are medium-storied 

Vessels are large and numerous

Wood is not ring porous

Wood is very hard and heavy

Quercus mongolica (mongolian ash)

Quercus mongolica (mongolian ash) is a hardwood. The description and an 

example are not available.

Senna meridionalis (taraby)

Senna meridionalis (taraby) description and an example are not available.

APP—aliform paratracheal parenchyma

BAP—banded apotracheal parenchyma

Photo by Alex Wiedenhoeft

Figure E-18 Example of Pterocarpus santalinus (Red sandalwood, 

Redsanders) Wood Cross Section
Wood Identification

CITES Protected Timber Species

02/2023-82 CITES Timber Species Manual E-21

Swietenia humilis (Pacific Coast mahogany)

Swietenia humilis (Pacific Coast mahogany) is a hardwood. 

To identify Swietenia humilis, confirm the following:

Heartwood is reddish brown

Parenchyma: prominent marginal parenchyma are present

Rays are coarse-storied

Vessels are large (easily visible with the naked eye), often in two or three 

radial multiples; black or red deposits are common in vessels

Wood is not ring porous

Wood is moderately hard and heavy

MP—marginal parenchyma

MV—multiple vessels

Photo by Alex Wiedenhoeft

Figure E-19 Example of Swietenia humilis (Pacific Coast mahogany) Wood 

Cross Section
Wood Identification

CITES Protected Timber Species

E-22 CITES Timber Species Manual 02/2023-82

Swietenia macrophylla (bigleaf mahogany)

Swietenia macrophylla (bigleaf mahogany) is a hardwood.

To identify the wood, check the following:

Heartwood is reddish brown

Parenchyma: prominent marginal parenchyma 

Rays are coarse-storied

Vessels are large (easily visible with naked eye), often in multiples of 2 or 

3

Wood is moderately hard and heavy

MP—marginal parenchyma

MV—multiple vessels

Photo by Alex Wiedenhoeft

Figure E-20 Example of Swietenia macrophylla (Bigleaf mahogany) Wood 

Cross Section
Wood Identification

CITES Protected Timber Species

02/2023-82 CITES Timber Species Manual E-23

Photo courtesy of Bud Petit de Manage

Figure E-21 Swietenia macrophylla (bigleaf mahogany) Lumber

Photo by Bud Petit de Mange

Figure E-22 Swietenia macrophylla (bigleaf mahogany) Lumber
Wood Identification

CITES Protected Timber Species

E-24 CITES Timber Species Manual 02/2023-82

Photo by Bud Petit de Mange

Figure E-23 Swietenia macrophylla (bigleaf mahogany) Lumber

Photo by Bud Petit de Mange

Figure E-24 Swietenia macrophylla (bigleaf mahogany) Lumber
Wood Identification

CITES Protected Timber Species

02/2023-82 CITES Timber Species Manual E-25

Swietenia mahogani (Caribbean mahogany) 

Swietenia mahogani (Caribbean mahogany) is a hardwood.

To identify the wood, check the following:

Heartwood is reddish brown

Parenchyma: prominent marginal parenchyma

Rays are usually coarse-storied, but sometimes not storied

Vessels are large (visible with the naked eye), often with radial multiples 

of two or three; reddish black or white deposits common

Wood is not ring porous

Wood is moderately hard and heavy

Tetracentron sinense (tetracentron)

Tetracentron sinense (tetracentron) is a hardwood. The description and an 

example are not available.

MP—marginal parenchyma

MV—multiple vessels

Photo by Alex Wiedenhoeft

Figure E-25 Example of Swietenia mahogani (Caribbean mahogany) Wood 

Cross Section
Wood Identification

CITES Protected Timber Species

E-26 CITES Timber Species Manual 02/2023-82
03/2020-69 CITES Timber Species Manual 1

CITES Timber 

Species 

Manual

Glossary

Introduction

Use this glossary to find the meaning of specialized words, abbreviations, 

acronyms, and terms. To locate where in the manual a given definition, term or 

abbreviation is mentioned, refer to the index.

Definitions, Terms, and Abbreviations

aliform paratracheal parenchyma (APP). An arrangement of parenchyma 

cells, as seen in cross section, that are grouped around pores and form winglike lateral extensions. 

artificially propagated. Timber taken from trees grown in monospecific 

plantations.

apotracheal parenchyma (AP). Longitudinal (axial) parenchyma that is not

associated with pores.

banded apotracheal parenchyma (AP). Layer or band of parenchyma cells 

not associated with the vessels within a growth ring.

banded parenchyma. Parenchyma cells that collectively appear as thin lines 

when viewed in cross section. 

cancel. As relates to CITES documents used to import into the U.S., to stamp 

to show that the CITES document has been used.

CITES Appendix I. Includes species threatened with extinction. Trade in 

specimens of these species is permitted only in exceptional circumstances; 

commercial trade is prohibited.

CITES Appendix II. Includes species not necessarily threatened with 

extinction, but in which trade must be controlled in order to avoid utilization 

incompatible with their survival.

CITES Appendix III. Includes species that are protected in at least one 

country which has asked other CITES parties for assistance in controlling the 

trade of these species.
Glossary

Definitions, Terms, and Abbreviations

2 CITES Timber Species Manual 03/2020-69

confluent paratracheal parenchyma (CPP). An arrangement of parenchyma 

cells that completely surrounds a vessel and extends to connect another vessel 

appearing as bands when viewed in cross section.

Convention (CITES). The Convention on the International Trade in 

Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora. 

Conventions. Standard formats used in the manual, such as advisories, 

boldface, examples, etc.

country of origin. Country from which the tree was cut or removed.

deposits. Metabolites that accumulate in cells of wood.

earlywood (EW). First formed position of single growth ring, located on the 

inside portion of a growth ring. Characterized by large cells and low density.

engaged in commercial business. Trade for the purpose of selling, bartering, 

collecting, or otherwise as a livelihood or enterprise for gain or profit.

extract. Any substance obtained directly from plant material by physical or 

chemical means regardless of the manufacturing process. An extract may be 

solid (e.g. crystals, resin, fine or coarse particles), semi-solid (e.g. gums, 

waxes) or liquid (e.g. solutions, tinctures, oil and essential oils). 

Finished musical instruments. A musical instrument (as referenced by the 

Harmonized System of the World Customs Organization, Chapter 92; musical 

instruments, parts and accessories of such articles) that is ready to play or 

needs only the installation of parts to make it playable. This term includes 

antique instruments (as defined by the Harmonized System codes 97.05 and 

97.06; Works of art, collectors’ pieces and antiques). 

Finished musical instrument accessories. A musical accessory (as 

referenced by the Harmonized System of the World Customs Organization, 

Chapter 92; musical instruments, parts and accessories of such articles) that is 

separate from the musical instrument, and is specifically designed or shaped to 

be used explicitly in association with an instrument, and that requires no

further modification to be used. 

Finished musical instrument parts. A part (as referenced by the Harmonized 

System of the World Customs Organization, Chapter 92; musical instruments, 

parts and accessories of such articles) of a musical instrument that is ready and 

is specifically designed and shaped to be used explicitly in association with the 

instrument to make it playable.
Glossary

Definitions, Terms, and Abbreviations

03/2020-69 CITES Timber Species Manual 3

finished products packed and ready for retail trade. Products, shipped 

singly or in bulk, requiring no further processing, packaged labeled for final 

use or the retail trade in a state fit for being sold to or used by the general 

public.

general permit (GP). The general permit is no longer issued and is not valid. 

The general permit was replaced by the Protected Plant Permit (PPP).

growth ring (GR). The layer of wood added to the stem during one growth 

period.

hardwood. Woods from broad-leaved trees in the botanical group 

angiosperms, characterized by having vessels. Also referred to as porous 

woods.

Harmonized System of the World Customs Organization (HS). An 

international numerical system of tariff codes.

heartwood. Wood associated with the central portion of a mature tree, and no

longer conducts sap. Infiltration of various organics impart a darker color to 

this wood.

latewood (LW). Later formed portion of a growth ring located on the outside 

portion of the growth ring. Characterized by smaller cells and higher density.

logs. All wood in the rough whether or not stripped of bark or sapwood, or 

roughly squared for processing, notably into sawn wood, pulpwood, or veneer 

sheets.

lozenge aliform paratracheal parenchyma (LAPP). Aliform paratracheal 

parenchyma that forms a lozenge shape. 

lumber (sawn wood). Wood sawn or chipped lengthwise, sliced or peeled, 

whether or not planed, sanded, or finger-jointed, of a thickness exceeding 

6mm.

Management Authority. A national authority designated in accordance with 

CITES Article IX as competent to grant permits and certificates.

marginal parenchyma. Cells of parenchyma forming a line at the beginning 

or end of the growth ring.

multiple vessel (MV). Several vessels adjacent and in-line to one another.
Glossary

Definitions, Terms, and Abbreviations

4 CITES Timber Species Manual 03/2020-69

Neotropics. Includes the Caribbean, Central America, Mexico, and North 

America.

paratracheal parenchyma (PP). Parenchyma that is associated with and 

often surrounds the vessels.

parenchyma. Thin-walled wood cells noted for storage of food reserves 

appearing light-colored when grouped together, or in continuous bands when 

viewed in cross section.

Party. A State for which the present Convention has entered into force.

phloem. Tissue of the inner bark that conducts food upward through the tree.

plywood. Consisting of three or more sheets of wood that is glued and pressed 

one on the other and generally disposed so the grains of successive layers are at 

an angle.

pore. Cross-section of a hardwood vessel.

powder. A dry, solid substance in the form of fine or coarse particles.

Protected Plant Permit (PPP). USDA-issued permit required for the 

commercial trade of CITES or ESA regulated terrestrial plants.

radial. A direction in wood perpendicular to the longitudinal grain direction.

radial section. A section of wood cut in a plane parallel to the rays.

ray. Flattened bands of tissue extending horizontally in a radial plan seen in 

cross section radiating in a direction from the center toward the bark of a tree.

re-export. Export of any specimen that has previously been imported.

resin canal. Tubular passageways in the wood of some softwoods.

ring porous wood (RPW). Wood in which an arrangement of larger pores are 

concentrated in the earlywood and smaller pores are found in the latewood.

sawn wood. See lumber (sawn wood).

scientific authority. A national authority designated in accordance with 

CITES Article IX as responsible for determining if trade will be detrimental to 

the survival of the species.
Glossary

Definitions, Terms, and Abbreviations

03/2020-69 CITES Timber Species Manual 5

seizure date. Date CBP or PPQ determines a shipment warrants forfeiture 

procedures and verifies the physical location of the shipment as either in a 

CBP- or PPQ-owned, leased, or approved facility within a Customs-bonded 

operation.

shipment. Cargo transported under the terms of a single bill of lading or 

waybill, irrespective of the quantity or number of containers, packages, or 

pieces. 

single vessel. A vessel that is not adjacent to or touching another vessel.

softwood. Wood without vessels produced by coniferous trees in the botanical 

group gymnosperms. Also referred to as nonporous woods.

Species (spp). Any species, subspecies, or geographically separate population 

thereof.

storied ray (SR). Rays arranged side-by-side forming horizontal rows which 

appear as undulant bands seen in tangential section. There are three categories 

of storied rays: fine (more than 6 rows of rays per millimeter (mm)); medium 

(more 3 to 6 rows of rays per mm); coarse (2 rows or less per mm). 

tangential section. Section of wood cut in a plane perpendicular to the rays.

trade. To export, re-export, or import.

transformed wood. Defined by Harmonized System code 44.09: Wood 

(including strips, friezes for parquet flooring, not assembled), continuously 

shaped (tongued, grooved, v-jointed, beaded or the like) along any edges, ends 

or faces, whether or not planed, sanded or end-jointed.

transverse section (cross section). Section of wood cut in a plane across the 

grain.

tyloses. Bubble-like structures that form in the vessels of certain hardwood 

species.

veneer. Thin layers of wood of uniform thickness, usually 6 mm or less, 

usually peeled or sliced for use in making plywood, for veneering furniture, 

veneer containers, etc.

vessel (V). A longitudinal conductive passageway formed by an aligned series 

of vessel elements.

woodchips. Wood that has been reduced to small pieces.
Glossary

Definitions, Terms, and Abbreviations

6 CITES Timber Species Manual 03/2020-69
02/2023-82 CITES Timber Species Manual Index-1

CITES Timber 

Species 

Manual

A

B

C

D

E

F

G

H

I

J

K

L

M

N

O

P

Q

R

S

T

U

V

W

X

Y

Z

Index

Numerics

Numerics

16 USC 1538 4-5, A-7

50CFR 1-4, A-7, A-49, A-51

50CFR 23 4-5, A-7, A-21

50CFR 24 3-31, 4-5, A-7, A-21

7CFR 1-4, A-8

7CFR 319 2-2, 2-30, 2-33, 2-68

7CFR 355 1-4, 4-3, A-21

7CFR 356 1-4, A-49, A-51

A

Abies guatemalensis (Guatemalan fir)

Appendix I list 2-6, 3-6

common names 7-1

confirm article for import is protected 2-12

confirm article for re-export is protected 3-13

documents required for import 2-30, 2-31

documents required for re-export 3-33, 3-34

wood identification and example E-3

Acts

bonded release A-49

remission and mitigation A-51

addresses

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Division of

Management Authority 3-76

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services Division of

Management Authority (DMA) 2-110

Afzelia spp. (pod mahogany) 

Appendix II list 2-6

common names 7-1

confirm article for import is protected 2-13

confirm article for re-export is protected 3-14

Almendro. See Dipteryx panamensis

Aniba rosaeodora (Brazilian rosewood) 3-7, 3-39

common names 7-1

documents required 3-38, 3-42, 3-44

regulating 2-13, 2-36, 2-37, 2-47, 3-13, 3-15,

3-38, 3-39

Annex 1, Conference Resolution 12.3 B-17

Annex 2, standard CITES form B-18

Appendix I 2-29

collect associated documents 3-73

Conference Resolutions B-1

confirm article for import is protected 2-12

confirm article for re-export is protected 3-12

confirm identify for import 2-5

confirm identity for re-export 3-6

definition 1-1, Glossary-1

documents required for import 2-29

documents required for re-export 3-32

Federal Phytosanitary Certificate 3-2

guidelines for import 2-2

guidelines for re-export 3-2

immediate export 3-88

import procedures summary 2-4

list of common names 7-1

list of protected timber 2-5, 3-6

procedures for re-export 3-4

prohibited commercial trade 3-32

recognition and identification E-3

transportation and exportation to Canada or

Mexico 3-87

violations 4-5

Appendix II

collect associated documents 3-73

Conference Resolutions B-1

confirm article for import is protected 2-12

confirm article for re-export is protected 3-12

confirm identity for re-export 3-6

definition 1-1, Glossary-1

documents required for import 2-32

documents required for re-export 3-35

Federal Phytosanitary Certificate 3-2

guidelines for import 2-2

immediate export 3-88

import procedures summary 2-4

list of common names 7-1

list of protected timber 2-6, 3-7

procedures for re-export 3-4

transportation and exportation to Canada or

Mexico 3-87

violations 4-5

Appendix III
Index

Index-2 CITES Timber Species Manual 02/2023-82

collect associated documents 3-73

Conference Resolutions B-1

confirm article for import is protected 2-12

confirm article for re-export is protected 3-12

confirm identity for import 2-5

definition 1-1, Glossary-1

documents required for import 2-67

documents required for re-export 3-69

Federal Phytosanitary Certificate 3-2

guidelines for import 2-2

immediate export 3-88

import procedures summary 2-4

list of common names 7-1

list of protected timber 2-8, 3-8

procedures for re-export 3-4

transportation and exportation to Canada or

Mexico 3-87

violations 4-5

Araucaria araucana (monkey puzzle tree)

Appendix I list 3-6

common names 7-1

confirm article for import is protected 2-13

confirm article for re-export is protected 3-15

documents required for import 2-30, 2-31

documents required for re-export 3-33, 3-34

wood identification and example E-4

Articles

acquired prior to Appendix III CITES listed

2-67

acquired prior to CITES listed 2-29, 2-32, 3-

69

Appendix I plantation grown trees 2-29

Appendix I trees cut in wild 2-29

Appendix II plantation grown trees 2-32

Appendix II trees cut in wild 2-32

Appendix III plantation grown trees 2-67, 3-

69

Appendix III trees cut in wild 3-69

Pre-Convention 2-29, 2-32, 2-67, 3-32, 3-35,

3-69

Authenticity

CITES document verification 2-98

Authority 2-28

determine if port designated for CITES timber importation 2-28

regulatory 1-3

USFWS DMA 2-110

B

Bigleaf mahogany. See Swietenia macrophylla

Board feet conversion C-1

Bonded release A-49

Brazilian rosewood 3-6, 3-7

Bulnesia sarmientoi (gaiacwood) 3-39

Appendix II 3-7

common names 7-1

confirm article for import is protected 2-14

confirm the article is protected 3-16

documents required 3-38

regulating 2-36, 2-37

C

Canada 3-87

Cargo

inspection of shipment for import 2-107

re-export shipment inspection 3-83

Cargo paperwork

documents to collect 2-97

Re-export Certificate verification 3-81

re-export documents to collect 3-74

Caribbean 2-26, 3-29

Caryocar costaricense (ajillo) 3-38

Appendix II list 3-7

common names 7-1

confirm article for import is protected 2-14

confirm article for re-export is protected 3-16

documents required for import 2-36, 2-37

documents required for re-export 3-39

wood identification and example E-5

Cedrela odorata (Spanish cedar)

wood identification and example E-6

Cedrela spp.

common name 7-1

documents required for import 2-38, 2-39

documents required for re-export 3-40, 3-41

regulated articles 2-14

Certificate of Artificial Propagation

Appendix I documents required for import 2-

29

Appendix II documents required for import

2-32

Appendix III documents required for import
Index

02/2023-82 CITES Timber Species Manual Index-3

2-67

Certificate of Origin

CITES document verification 2-98

documents required for import 2-67, 2-71, 2-

75, 2-83, 2-91

Certified Mail A-35

CITES contacts 3-5, 4-2

CITES Coordinator, National 4-11

CITES documents

authorized quantities on 2-106

distribution 2-110, 3-86

filing system 2-3

required for import 2-29

CITES Export Permit

Appendix I imports 2-29

Appendix II imports 2-32

Appendix II re-export 3-35

Appendix III imports 2-67

confirm legal import 3-77

documents associated with shipment 3-73

special conditions 3-34, 3-67

CITES Import Permit

documents needed for legal import 2-29

documents required for Appendix I import 2-

31

documents required for re-export 3-32, 3-34

CITES Re-export Certificate

altered or modified 3-78

confirm legal importation 3-77

FWS cover letter to permittee A-16

CITES Specialist 4-2, 4-3

CITES Species Database 2-9

CITES Wood Identification 2-11, 3-11

CITES wood identification identifiers 2-11

Commercial business

documents required for Appendix I import 2-

30

documents required for Appendix I re-export

3-33

documents required for Appendix II import

2-34, 2-35, 2-36, 2-37, 2-60, 2-62, 2-

64, 3-66

documents required for Appendix II re-export 3-36, 3-38, 3-48, 3-50, 3-52, 3-

56, 3-58, 3-60, 3-62, 3-64

documents required for Appendix III import

2-72, 2-76, 2-77, 2-84, 2-85, 2-93

documents required for re-export 3-73

violation 4-3

commercial shipments 2-102, 3-83

Commercial trade 2-29, 2-97, 3-34, 3-73

Commodity 2-10, 2-12, 3-2, 3-10, 3-12

unit of measure 2-106

Common names 7-1

Conference Resolutions

10.13, Implementation of the Convention for

Timber Species B-1

12.3, Permits and Certificates B-4

Annex 1 B-17

Annex 2, Standard CITES Form B-17

Confirmation

article for import is protected 2-12

article for re-export is protected 3-12

identify of timber or articles for import 2-5

identity of timber or articles for re-export 3-6

legal importation 3-77

violation exists 4-5

violation warrants seizure and forfeiture 4-6

Consignee

CITES document verification 2-99

CITES Re-export Certificate verification 3-

79

middleman both U.S. and Canadian or Mexican 3-87

PPQ Form 518, Report of Violation A-21

contacts 3-5, 4-2

Convention (CITES)

bonded release A-49

definition Glossary-2

enforcement 1-1

remission and mitigation A-51

Conventions (Manual) 1-5

Conversion formulas

cubic feet of lumber to cubic meters C-2

cubic feet of veneer to cubic meters C-6

square feet of veneer to square meters C-5

square meters of veneer to cubic meters C-5

Custody

seized material $10,000 or less value A-54

seized material valued at $10,000 or less A-
Index

Index-4 CITES Timber Species Manual 02/2023-82

49

D

Dalbergia calycina 3-8

Dalbergia cochinchinensis (Thailand rosewood)

3-7

Dalbergia nigra 7-2

Dalbergia nigra (Brazilian rosewood)

Appendix I list 3-6

confirm article for re-export is protected 3-18

documents required for import 2-30, 2-31

documents required for re-export 3-33, 3-34

wood identification and example E-10

Dalbergia spp. 7-2

Dalbergia spp. (rosewoods) 3-7

Databases

CITES Species Database 2-9

Description verification 2-12, 3-12

Designated port 3-31

determine your authority 2-28

issuance of Federal Phytosanitary Certificate

for Re-export 3-2

movement to 2-28, 3-31

rerouting to 4-6

Dimensional inventory tally sheets. See Dimensional specification sheets

Dimensional piece count 3-83

Dimensional specification sheets

determine quantity of representative unit 2-

107, 3-83

determine quantity shipped for import 2-106

documents to collect for re-export 3-74

filing 2-3, 3-3

Diospyros spp. 3-7, 7-2

Dipteryx panamensis

CITES Appendix III 2-8

Dipteryx panamensis (almendro) 3-71

regulating 2-70, 2-72

Dipteryx panamensis (tonka bean)

Appendix III list 3-8

common names 7-2

confirm article for import is protected 2-17

confirm article for re-export is protected 3-19

Disposal 4-23, A-5

Documents

Appendix I re-exportation 3-32, 3-33

Appendix I timber importation 2-29

Appendix II importation 2-32

Appendix II re-exportation 3-35, 3-36

Appendix III importation 2-67

Appendix III re-exportation 3-69, 3-70

collect for importations 2-97

collect for re-exportations 3-70

endorsement 2-109

identification for import 2-9

identification for re-export 3-9

renewal of expired GP 3-75

Dowels 2-106, C-3

E

Eastern Region PPQ Area Identifiers 2-11, 3-11

Endorsement

CITES Re-export Certificate 3-85

document legibility 2-109

import documents 2-109

special conditions 3-73

Entry papers 2-106

Estimation

PPQ Form 624, Part 1 A-34

PPQ Form 624, Part 1 (Modified) A-43

retail value of timber or articles 4-8

Expiration

General Permit or Protected Plant Permit 2-

105

General Permit or Protected Plant Permit

(PPP) 3-75

Exporter

conversions C-1

violations 4-3

F

Facsimile 2-109

Federal Phytosanitary Certificate for Re-export

3-2

Fees

PPQ Form 621, Application for Protected

Plant Permit to Engage in the Business of Importing, Exporting, or Reexporting Terrestrial Plants A-26

Filing

import documents 2-110

system 2-3, 3-3, 4-25

Fitzroya cupressoides (alerce)
Index

02/2023-82 CITES Timber Species Manual Index-5

Appendix I list 3-6

common names 7-2

confirm article for import is protected 2-17

confirm article for re-export is protected 3-19

documents required for import 2-30, 2-31

documents required for re-export 3-33, 3-34

wood identification and example E-10

Forfeiture procedures

protected plant species violations 4-14

seizures valued at $10,000 or less 4-9

seizures valued greater than $10,000 4-12

Forms

ordering A-3

Formulas

cubic feet lumber to cubic meters C-2

cubic feet veneer to cubic meters C-6

square feet of veneer to square meters C-5

total quantity of unit 2-107

Fraxinus mandshurica 2-17, 3-8, 7-2

CITES Appendix III 2-8

Fraxinus mandshurica (manchurian ash) 3-72

re-export documents 3-71

FWS Form 3-201A

documents for re-export 3-73

example of CITES Other Certificate (PreConvention) A-17

example of CITES Re-export Certificate A18

FWS-USDA-CITES agreement 2-4, 3-4

G

gaiacwood 3-7

Gonystylus spp. (ramin)

Appendix III list 2-8, 3-7

common names 7-2

confirm article for import is protected 2-17

confirm article for re-export is protected 3-20

documents required for import 2-36, 2-37, 2-

47

wood identification and example E-11

Gonystylus spp.(ramin) 3-48, 3-49

Guaiacum spp. (lignum vitae) 3-48, 3-49

Appendix II list 3-7

common names 7-2

confirm article for import is protected 2-18

confirm article for re-export is protected 3-20

documents required for import 2-46, 2-47

wood identification and example E-12

Guidelines

CITES protected timber importation 2-2

CITES protected timber re-exportation 3-2

H

Harmonized System of the World Customs Organization (HS) Codes D-1, Glossary-3

HOLD

continue on seized material in custody 4-16

seizure of material in violation 4-8

shipment for incomplete for inaccurate

CITES Re-export Certificate 3-82

I

Immediate exportation (IE) 3-88

Inspection

description of consignment being imported 2-

12

description of consignment being re-exported

3-12

import shipments 2-107

quantity of representative unit 2-107, 3-83

re-export shipments 3-83

Invoices 2-3

collect for re-export 3-74

collect shipment documents 2-97

identification for import 2-9

identification for re-export 3-9

Re-export Certificate verification 3-81

re-export documents for file 3-3

shipment inspection 2-107, 3-83

violation 4-3

K

Knowledgeable person 4-7

Khaya spp. (African mahogany) 

Appendix II list 2-6

common names 7-2

confirm article for import is protected 2-20

confirm article for re-export is protected 3-20

L

Labels

filing system 4-25

identification for import 2-9

identification for re-export 3-9

Legal importation
Index

Index-6 CITES Timber Species Manual 02/2023-82

articles for import 2-29

articles for re-export 3-77

Lists

Common Names for Appendix I, II, III timber species 7-1

violations A-7

Local names 2-9, 3-9

Logs

Cedrela odorata 2-14

Pericopsis elata 2-13, 2-20, 2-22, 2-24

ports for import 3-31

Pterocarpus santalinus 2-24

re-exported from another country 2-97

Swietenia macrophylla 2-25

Swietenia mahogani 2-25

unit of quantity 2-106

Lumber

Cedrela odorata 2-14, 3-16

Federal Phytosanitary Certificate 3-2, 3-73

import shipment inspection 2-107

Pericopsis elata 2-22, 3-25

ports for import 3-31

re-exported from another country 2-97

Swietenia macrophylla 2-25, 3-28

Swietenia mahogani 2-25, 3-28

unit of quantity 2-106

M

Magnolia liliifera var. obovata

Appendix III list 2-8, 3-8

common names 7-2

confirm article for import is protected 2-21

confirm article for re-export is protected 3-23

documents required for import 2-77, 2-78, 2-

79, 2-80, 2-85, 2-93

wood identification and example E-14

Magnolia liliifera var. obovata (magnolia) 3-71,

3-72

Mexico 2-26, 3-29, 3-87

Molding 2-106

Movement

regulated material without submitting proper

documents 4-4

shipment to CITES designated port for import 2-28

shipment to CITES designated port for re-export 3-31

Multiple owners/agents 4-10, 4-13, A-35, A-44,

A-49

musical instruments 2-4, 2-106, 3-4

N

National CITES Coordinator 4-3

National CITES Specialist 4-3

Neotropics

confirm if article for import is protected 2-14,

2-25

determine if article for re-export is protected

3-28

documents required for import 2-60, 2-61

Nepal

documents required for Appendix III importations 2-77, 2-78, 2-85, 2-86, 2-93,

2-94

Non-commercial use 2-29, 3-32

Notification 4-8

Numbers

Appendix 2-100, 3-80

badge 2-109, 3-85

bill of lading/air waybill 3-85

file 4-9, 4-25

permit 2-98, 3-81

quantity of unit for inspection 2-107, 3-83

unit of quantity on documents 2-106

O

Obovata

See Magnolia liliifera

Oreomunnea pterocarpa (gavilan) 3-48, 3-49

Appendix II list 3-7

common names 7-2

confirm article for import is protected 2-21

confirm article for re-export is protected 3-23

documents required for import 2-46, 2-47

wood identification and example E-15

Osyris lanceolata 2-21, 7-2

Osyris lanceolata (African sandalwood)

CITES Appendix II 3-7

re-export documents 3-54, 3-55

P

Packing list

identification for import 2-9

identification for re-export 3-9
Index

02/2023-82 CITES Timber Species Manual Index-7

Part 5 distribution and retention A-47

Paubrasilia echinata (Brazilwood) 

Appendix II list 2-6

common names 7-2

confirm article for import is protected 2-22

confirm article for re-export is protected 3-25

Pericopsis elata (afrormosia) 3-56, 3-57, 3-60

Appendix II list 3-7

common names 7-2

confirm article for import is protected 2-22

confirm article for re-export is protected 3-25

documents required for importation 2-50, 2-

51, 2-54, 2-55, 3-52, 3-53

wood identification and example E-16

Permit Unit

address A-26

Permit Unit address 3-75

Physical inspection 2-107, 3-83

Phytosanitary

documentation for re-export 3-32

documents for filing 3-3

Federal Phytosanitary Certificate 3-2

import documents for filing 2-3

import requirements 3-2

Pilgerodendron uviferum (pilgerodendron)

Appendix I list 3-6

common names 7-2

confirm article for import is protected 2-22

confirm article for re-export is protected 3-25

documents required for import 2-30, 2-31

documents required for re-export 3-33, 3-34

Pinus koraiensis (Korean pine)

Appendix III list 2-8, 3-8

CITES Appendix III 2-23

common names 7-2

documents required for import 2-81, 2-82, 2-

83, 2-84

Plant Protection Act 2-2, 2-30, 2-33, 2-68

Platymiscium pleiostachyum (cristobal graradillo) 3-56, 3-57

Platymiscium pleiostachyum (cristobal, granadillo) 3-56, 3-57

Appendix II list 3-7

common names 7-3

confirm article for import is protected 2-23

documents required for import 2-54, 2-55

wood identification and example E-17

Plywood

Abies guatemalensis 2-26, 3-29

Araucaria araucana 3-29

definition Glossary-4

Fitzroya cupressoides 3-29

Gonystylus spp. 3-29

HS Code 44.08, 44.12.13 D-1

HS Code 44.12.14 D-2

Swietenia macrophylla 2-25, 3-28

unit of measure 2-106

Podocarpus neriifolius (podocarp) 3-71, 3-72

Appendix III list 2-8, 3-8

common names 7-3

confirm article for import is protected 2-23

confirm article for re-export is protected 3-26

documents required for import 2-85, 2-86, 2-

87, 2-88, 2-93, 2-95, 2-96

documents required for re-export 3-71, 3-72

wood identification and example E-18

Podocarpus parlatorei (Parlatore’s podocarp)

Appendix I list 3-6

common names 7-3

confirm article for import is protected 2-23

confirm article for re-export is protected 3-26

documents required for import 2-30, 2-31

documents required for re-export 3-33, 3-34

wood identification and example E-19

Port files 2-110

Ports

CITES designated 2-28, 3-31

non-designated 4-6

PPQ Area Identifiers 2-11, 3-11

PPQ Form 518, Report of Violation 4-5

complete for violation 4-4

distribution A-24

distribution of case file A-24

example A-20

import inspection action 2-108

instructions for completing form A-21

issuance for violations 4-3

list of violations for completing A-7

PPQ Form 621, Application for Protected Plant

Permit to Engage in Business of Importing, Ex-
Index

Index-8 CITES Timber Species Manual 02/2023-82

porting, or Re-exporting Terrestrial Plants

distribution A-26

example A-25

mailing application and fee 3-75, A-26

PPQ Form 622, Protected Plant Permit. See Protected Plant Permit

PPQ Form 623, Waiver of Forfeiture Procedures

by Owner of Seized Property 4-10

distribution $10,000 or less value 4-10

distribution and retention A-31

example A-29

filing system 4-25

forfeiture procedures $10,000 or less value 4-

9

instructions A-30

list of violations for completing form A-7

PPQ Form 624, Notice for Seizure and Proposed

Forfeiture of Property Valued at $10,000 or Less

distribution A-35

list of violations for completing form A-7

ordering A-32

Part 1 distribution and retention A-35

Part 1 example A-32

Part 5 instructions for completing A-38

Part 5-PPQ/CBP Port Worksheet example A37

PPQ Form 624A, Notice for Seizure of Property

Valued Greater Than $10,000 A-47

forfeiture procedures 4-12

instructions for completing form A-42

list of violations for completing form A-7

Part 1 example A-41

Part 5 example A-45

PPQ Form 625, Claim and Bond

example A-48

filing system 4-25

instructions and distribution for seizures valued at $10,000 or less A-49

PPQ Form 626, Petition for Remission or Mitigation of Forfeiture

example of A-50

instructions and distribution for seizures valued at $10,000 or less A-51

instructions and distribution for seizures valued greater than $10,000 A-52

PPQ Form 627, Declaration of Forfeiture

custody of seizure or abandoned material valued at $10,000 or less 4-17

distribution and retention A-55

example A-53

filing 4-25

instructions A-54

list of violations for completing A-7

PPQ forms A-3

PPQ National CITES Specialist 4-14, 4-23

Pre-Convention

Appendix I articles for import 2-29

Appendix I articles for re-export 3-32

Appendix II articles for re-export 2-32, 3-35

Appendix III articles for import 2-67

Appendix III articles for re-export 3-69

Pre-Convention Certificate

documents required for import 2-34, 2-35, 2-

36, 2-37, 2-38, 2-39, 2-40, 2-41, 2-42,

2-43, 2-44, 2-45, 2-46, 2-47, 2-48, 2-

49, 2-50, 2-51, 2-53, 2-54, 2-55, 2-56,

2-57, 2-58, 2-59, 2-60, 2-61, 2-62, 2-

63, 2-64, 2-65, 2-69, 2-70, 2-71, 2-72,

2-73, 2-74, 2-75, 2-76, 2-77, 2-78, 2-

79, 2-80, 2-81, 2-82, 2-83, 2-84, 2-85,

2-86, 2-87, 2-89, 2-90, 2-91, 2-92, 2-

93, 2-94, 2-95, 3-67

documents required for import of Podocarpus

neriifolius 2-88

documents required for import of Tetracentro

sinense 2-96

documents required for re-export 2-30, 2-31,

3-33, 3-34, 3-36, 3-38, 3-48, 3-50, 3-

52, 3-54, 3-56, 3-58, 3-60, 3-62, 3-66

Protected Plant Permit

application 3-75, A-25, A-26

documents for Appendix I import 2-30, 2-69,

2-71, 2-73, 2-75, 2-77, 2-79, 2-81, 2-

83, 2-85, 2-87, 2-89, 2-91, 2-93, 2-95,

3-33, 3-36, 3-38, 3-40, 3-42, 3-44, 3-

46, 3-48, 3-50, 3-52, 3-54, 3-56, 3-58,

3-60, 3-62, 3-64, 3-66, 3-71

documents for Appendix II import 2-34, 2-

35, 2-36, 2-37, 2-40, 2-42, 2-44, 2-46,

2-48, 2-50, 2-54, 2-56, 2-58
Index

02/2023-82 CITES Timber Species Manual Index-9

example A-27

expiration date 2-105, 3-75

importation document 2-97

instructions and distribution A-28

purpose A-26

re-exportation document 3-73

revoked 4-3

violation 4-3

violations A-7

Prunus africana (African cherry, pygeum) 3-7, 3-

56, 3-57, 7-3

Pterocarpus santalinus (red sandalwood, redsanders) 3-60

Appendix II list 3-7

confirm article for import is protected 2-24

confirm article for re-export is protected 3-27

documents required for import 2-54, 2-55

wood identification and example E-20

Pterocarpus spp. (African rosewood) 

Appendix II list 2-6

common names 7-3

confirm article for import is protected 2-24

confirm article for re-export is protected 3-27

Q

Quantities

authorized for import 2-106

CITES Re-export Certificate verification 3-

81

dimensional specification sheets 2-97, 3-74

excess 4-7

excess in violation 4-5

Quercus mongolica 3-8, 7-3

Quercus mongolica (mongolian oak) 3-72

documents for re-export 3-71

R

Registered Mail 4-10, 4-13, 4-17, A-35

Remission and mitigation A-51

Renewing expired CITES Re-export Certificate

3-76

Repeat violations 4-7

Representative unit 2-107, 3-83

Retail value 4-8

Return Receipt Requested A-35

S

Safeguarding

immediate exportation 3-88

seized timber or articles 4-14

T&E to Canada or Mexico 3-87

Seizures

conditions 4-6

filing system 4-25

import in excess 2-108

re-export excess quantity 3-84

repeat violator 3-84

safeguarding timber or articles 4-14

unauthorized articles 2-108

unauthorized articles for re-export 3-84

Senna meridionalis (taraby)

Appendix III 3-7

common names 7-3

documents for import 2-58, 2-59

documents for re-export 3-60, 3-61

Shipment 2-107

movement to CITES designated port for import 2-28

movement to CITES designated port for reexport 3-31

Special conditions 2-99

CITES certificate 3-73

example of CITES Re-export Certificate A18

import document verification 2-99

U.S. company and Canadian or Mexican

consignee 3-87

verifying 3-80, 3-81

Square feet conversion C-5

Square meters 2-106

Stamping

endorsement of import documents 2-109

special procedures for immediate exports 3-

88

special procedures for transportation and exportation to Canada or Mexico 3-87

Swietenia humilis (Pacific Coast mahogany) 3-

60

Appendix II list 3-7

common names 7-3

confirm article for import is protected 2-25

confirm article for re-export is protected 3-28

documents required for import 2-58, 2-59
Index

Index-10 CITES Timber Species Manual 02/2023-82

wood identification and example E-21

Swietenia macrophylla (bigleaf mahogany) 3-62

Appendix II list 3-7

common names 7-3

confirm article for re-export is protected 3-28

confirm article imported is protected 2-25

documents required for import 2-60

wood identification and example E-25

Swietenia mahogani (Caribbean mahogany)

Appendix II list 3-7

common names 7-3

confirm article for import is protected 2-25

confirm article for re-export is protected 3-28

documents required for import 2-62, 2-63

documents required for re-export 3-64, 3-65

wood identification and example E-25

T

Tags

identification for import 2-9

identification for re-export 3-9

Tetracentron sinense (Tetracentron) 2-25, 3-71,

3-72, E-25

Appendix III list 2-8

confirm article for re-export protected 3-28

documents required 2-95, 2-96

required documents 2-86, 2-94

Tetracentron sinense (tetracentron)

Appendix III list 3-8

common names 7-3

timber conversion formulas C-1

Trade name 2-9, 3-9

Transportation and exportation (T&E) 3-87

U

U.S. Attorney’s office 4-22

U.S. District Court 4-22

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

Division of Management Authority 3-76

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS)

address 3-76

Appendix II documents for re-export 3-36, 3-

38, 3-48, 3-50, 3-52, 3-54, 3-56, 3-58,

3-60, 3-62, 3-66

Appendix III documents required for re-export 3-69

certificate quantities and articles 3-84

CITES Special Permit Condition A-15

cover letter to CITES Re-export Certificate

Permittee A-16

Division of Management Authority (DMA)

2-110

documents for re-export 3-73

verification of re-export certificate 3-79

documents required for re-export 3-73

issued documents 3-33, 3-34, 3-37, 3-39, 3-

49, 3-51, 3-53, 3-55, 3-57, 3-59, 3-61,

3-63

special conditions 3-67

validation and endorsement 3-85

USDA Forms A-3

V

validation

CITES Re-export Certificate 3-85

Veneer

Cedrela odorata 2-14, 3-16

conversion formulas C-5

definition Glossary-5

Dipteryx panamensis 2-26

HS Code 44.08 D-1

Pericopsis elata 2-13, 2-20, 2-22, 2-24, 2-26

Platymiscium pleiostachyum 2-26, 3-29, 3-

30

Swietenia macrophylla 2-25

Swietenia mahogani 2-25

unit of measure 2-106

Violations

CITES 4-5

confirmation for seizure and forfeiture 4-5

determine if exist 4-3

endangered species regulations 4-3

invalid CITES documentation 4-5

movement of regulated material 4-4

no CITES document 4-5

quantities exceed those on CITES permit or

certificate 4-5

use of non-designated CITES port 4-5

W

Western Region PPQ Area Identifier 2-11

wood identification 3-11, E-2

Urgent interception identification 2-10