Ocean Freight Pallets: What You Need to Know Before Shipping Overseas

Shipping products overseas introduces far more risk than domestic freight. Ocean transit exposes cargo to extended handling cycles, high humidity, vessel movement, and long container dwell times. Even small oversights in pallet selection can lead to customs delays, fumigation penalties, or rejected shipments, resulting in significant financial and operational impact.

The right ocean freight pallets play a critical role in ensuring cargo integrity and regulatory compliance. Understanding how they differ from standard domestic pallets and what regulations and performance requirements they must meet is essential for any business shipping overseas.

This blog serves as an introductory guide to ocean freight pallets, what they are, how they work, key compliance requirements, common mistakes to avoid, and best practices for preparing pallets for international shipping.

In a Nutshell:

• Ocean freight shipments require pallets that are more durable, moisture-resistant, and compliant with global regulatory requirements than domestic shipments.

• ISPM-15 certification is essential for wood pallets used for international transport; non-compliance can lead to customs delays, fumigation, penalties, or shipment rejection.

• Export pallet material choices include heat-treated wood, plastic, plywood, and composite; each offers advantages based on cargo needs, destination rules, and cost.

• Poor pallet selection and preparation are major causes of ocean-freight damage claims, often avoidable through proper load stability, securement, and moisture control.

• Best practices include: using compliant pallets, proper weight distribution, protective wrapping and strapping, documentation readiness, and moisture-mitigation steps.

• Working with pallet or packaging specialists helps businesses ensure compliance, optimize pallet choice, and reduce the risk of freight damage and delays during international transit.

What Are Ocean Freight Pallets?

Ocean freight pallets are pallets specifically designed and prepared to support goods shipped by sea. Compared to domestic pallets, export-grade pallets must meet stricter requirements for structural strength, pest control, moisture resistance, and compliance with international regulations.

Ocean freight pallets serve three primary purposes:

• Support and stabilize cargo throughout long-distance containerized transportation

• Protect products from shifting loads, vibrations, and environmental exposure

• Ensure compliance with international import and export regulations

Unlike standard domestic pallets that may be used for short truck or warehouse movements, pallets intended for ocean transport must perform consistently under heavier loads and for more extended periods, often in unpredictable conditions.

These pallets may be made from heat-treated wood, plywood, presswood, plastic, or composite materials. The choice depends on the destination rules, cargo type, budget, and whether pallets are expected to be returned or circulate internationally.

With a clear picture of what ocean freight pallets are designed to do, it becomes easier to see why choosing the right one is critical for cargo safety and compliance.

Why Pallet Selection Matters in Ocean Freight Shipping?

Most freight damage claims during international transport are tied to improper packaging, insufficient unit load stability, or pallet failure rather than transportation incidents. Because products shipped overseas endure:

• Extended dwell time inside shipping containers and port terminals

• Multiple hand-offs between carriers and equipment

• Load shifting due to ocean motion and vessel roll

• High humidity and moisture exposure can weaken wood and packaging

• Temperature fluctuations from freezing to extreme heat

A poorly chosen pallet can compromise an entire container load. And in many cases, ocean freight packaging damage may not be covered by insurance if the shipper used unsuitable or non-compliant packaging materials.

To make informed choices, shippers must understand the specific performance criteria pallets must meet for international transport.

Key Requirements for Ocean Freight Pallets

To be suitable for export, pallets must address three major performance categories, including:

1. Structural Strength

Ocean freight pallets must support heavy loads and remain stable when stacked several tiers high. Standard container stacking loads can exceed 10,000 pounds. The pallet must withstand both static and dynamic pressures.

2. Moisture and Environmental Resistance

Shipping containers are subject to high humidity and condensation. Pallets exposed to moisture can deteriorate or become moldy, potentially contaminating goods. For food, pharmaceuticals, or sensitive electronics, moisture may cause irreversible damage.

3. International Regulatory Compliance

Ocean freight pallets must comply with global phytosanitary regulations, particularly for wood-based pallets, most commonly ISPM-15.

Together, these requirements ensure pallets remain safe, compliant, and reliable throughout long-distance ocean transport.

With these foundational requirements in place, the next critical consideration is ensuring full ISPM-15 compliance for any wood pallets used in export shipments.

Understanding ISPM-15 Compliance

ISPM-15 (International Standard for Phytosanitary Measures No. 15) is a global regulation governing the treatment of solid wood packing materials used in international trade. It is designed to prevent the spread of wood-borne pests and diseases across borders.

Wood pallets used in ocean freight must be:

• Heat-treated (HT) at 56°C for at least 30 minutes at the core

• Or fumigated with methyl bromide (MB), where still allowed

• Stamped with the official IPPC mark indicating compliance

The ISPM-15 stamp must be:

• Permanent and clearly visible

• Applied to two opposite pallet sides

• Recorded if documentation is required

Shipments arriving without compliant pallets may be:

• Quarantined or delayed at port

• Fumigated at the shipper’s expense

• Returned to the origin

• Destroyed often without reimbursement

• Subject to penalties from customs authorities

Non-compliance can disrupt entire supply chains and create costly ripple effects, including missed delivery windows and failure to meet customer or distribution requirements.

More than 180 countries enforce ISPM-15, including the U.S., Canada, European Union countries, China, Australia, and many others.

Once compliance obligations are understood, the next step is selecting a pallet material that meets your cargo needs and destination requirements.

Types of Pallets Commonly Used for Ocean Freight Shipping

There is no universal “best pallet” for every application. The right choice depends on cargo type, industry standards, budget, destination regulations, and whether pallets will be reused or disposed of. Common types of pallets that are commonly used in freight shipping include: 

1. Heat-Treated Wood Pallets

One of the most widely used export pallet types.

Advantages

• ISPM-15 compliant when stamped and traceable

• Strong and durable for heavy freight

• Cost-effective for large-scale shipping

• Available in standard and custom sizes

Considerations

• Can absorb moisture in humid environments

• Heavier than plastic or presswood

• Requires inspection to maintain quality

2. Plastic Pallets

A popular choice for controlled and high-value product shipments.

Advantages

• Excellent moisture and corrosion resistance

• Lightweight and consistent dimensions

• Hygienic for food, pharma, and cleanroom environments

• Often reusable for return supply chains

Considerations

• Higher upfront cost

• More expensive to replace if not returned

• Some destination countries restrict reuse or require recovery plans

3. Presswood & Plywood Export Pallets

Often exempt from full ISPM-15 requirements because of manufacturing processes.

Advantages

• Lightweight and space-efficient

• Typically accepted globally without heat treatment

• Lower cost for one-way or disposable shipments

Considerations

• Less load capacity than solid wood

• Susceptible to moisture if unprotected

• Not suitable for heavy industrial freight

4. Composite Pallets

Made of engineered wood, resin, or fiber material.

Advantages

• Stronger than plywood

• More moisture-resistant than solid wood

• Uniform structure for load consistency

Considerations

• Higher cost and limited availability

• Heavier than plywood or plastic, depending on design

With these pallet types and their trade-offs in mind, we move on to understanding how to choose the most suitable option for your international shipment.

Choosing the Right Pallet for Your International Shipment

When evaluating pallets for ocean transport, consider:

A well-matched pallet reduces total cost and improves damage prevention, even if it is not the cheapest option upfront.

Even with the proper selection criteria, many shippers still encounter preventable issues due to oversights in pallet preparation and usage.

Common Mistakes Companies Make With Ocean Freight Pallets

Even experienced logistics teams encounter issues when pallet selection is rushed or standardized without assessment.

Frequent errors include:

• Choosing pallets based only on price rather than performance

• Using untreated or uncertified wood pallets

• Poor load configuration and weak cargo securement

• Ignoring humidity and condensation risks

• Incorrect pallet size relative to container footprint

• Inadequate documentation for customs clearance

Upfront cost savings can quickly disappear when freight arrives damaged or is held at the port.

To avoid these costly errors, it’s essential to follow proven best practices that strengthen load stability and protect cargo throughout ocean transit.

Best Practices for Preparing Pallets for Ocean Freight

Even a compliant, export-grade pallet can fail if the load is not secured properly or if environmental risks are overlooked. Since ocean freight involves prolonged transit, container movement, and high humidity, following proven preparation practices helps prevent product damage, reduce claims, and ensure shipments arrive safely and on schedule.

Pallet Selection Best Practices

• Use ISPM-15 stamped HT wood pallets or compliant alternatives

• Verify treatment markings and certification documentation

• Match pallet material to environmental exposure and cargo type

Load Stability Best Practices

• Use corner protection, straps, bands, or stretch wrap

• Ensure even weight distribution and stable stacking

• Avoid overhang it increases damage likelihood

• Use slip sheets or protective liners between layers

Moisture & Environmental Control

• Add desiccants or moisture-barrier bags for sensitive cargo

• Avoid storing pallets directly on the ground, pre-loading

• Inspect pallets for mold or water staining before use

Documentation & Compliance Prep

• Check specific country import rules in advance

• Attach required declarations and certificates securely

• Maintain inspection and treatment records for traceability

Strong upfront preparation pays off in faster clearance and lower damage rates.

While these guidelines offer a strong foundation, many businesses benefit from expert support to ensure compliance, optimize pallet performance, and prevent supply chain disruptions.

How Working With a Pallet or Packaging Partner Can Help?

International pallet requirements can be complex, especially when shipping to multiple countries, switching freight routes, or scaling volume. For many businesses, working with a pallet broker or packaging optimization partner helps reduce risk, ensure compliance, and identify cost efficiencies.

Experienced partners can:

• Recommend the right pallet type based on cargo, region, and use case

• Help verify ISPM-15 compliance and documentation

• Provide access to export-grade pallet inventory without last-minute shortages

• Analyze packaging configurations for damage reduction and freight efficiency

• Support load design, pallet patterns, and material substitution decisions

Here’s why choosing Meridian can make a real difference, based on its publicly available performance data:

• Meridian operates a network of 2,400+ trusted partners across the U.S. and has delivered over 1 million pallets to clients nationwide, giving clients access to an unusually large and resilient supply chain.

• Their proprietary procurement technology reportedly reduces speed-to-procurement, helping avoid costly last-minute sourcing delays and keeping supply chains more predictable.

• On average, national clients working with Meridian realize around 5-25% cost savings, while maintaining guaranteed supply reliability through multiple supplier backups.

Meridian provides pallet sourcing support along with packaging optimization audits that reveal cost-saving opportunities and strengthen load performance across domestic and international transportation. Their experience across diverse logistics environments removes guesswork and adds reliability where it matters most.

Wrapping Up

Ocean freight shipping presents unique challenges that demand careful pallet selection and load preparation. The right ocean freight pallets help protect products during long transit, prevent customs delays, and maintain supply chain stability. 

Need help choosing the right pallets for your business? Visit Meridian to explore a wide range of pallet solutions, tailored to meet your specific needs.

Contact us! 

FAQs

1. Do all countries enforce ISPM-15 regulations for wood pallets?

Most major trading nations require ISPM-15 compliance, but specific rules, inspection strictness, and documentation needs vary by destination. Checking country-specific policies before shipping helps prevent unexpected delays.

2. How early should companies plan pallet requirements before an ocean shipment?

Ideally, several weeks in advance to allow time for sourcing compliant pallets, arranging documentation, conducting load testing if necessary, and aligning packaging with container configuration.

3. Are returnable or reusable pallet systems practical for overseas shipments?

They can be particularly useful for closed-loop trade lanes or high-value shipments, but they require logistical planning for recovery, tracking, and potential reverse freight costs.

4. Can ocean freight pallets be optimized to reduce container freight costs?

Yes. Adjusting pallet dimensions, layout patterns, and stack height can help maximize container utilization, reducing cost per shipped unit even without changing cargo volume.

5. What types of products typically require premium pallet materials for ocean shipping?

Pharmaceuticals, food, temperature-sensitive, high-value electronics, industrial chemicals, and products with strict hygiene standards often benefit from plastic or composite pallets over wood.

6. What documents may be required for ocean freight pallets made from ISPM-15-treated wood?

Documentation may include treatment certificates, origin records, fumigation declarations (if applicable), and export packing lists showing pallet compliance details.