Entry Requirements for Wood Packaging


Overview

On January 2, 2004 the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) introduced new regulations for the import and export of wood packaging. Wood packaging is any piece of non-manufactured wood used to brace, support, protect or secure a consignment or cargo. Wood packaging products include, dunnage, crating, wood boxes, load boards, pallets, wooden wire drums and skids. The CFIA will be phasing-in the new regulations relating to the movement of wood packaging over the next few months. During the phase-in period, notices will be issued for all wood packaging that is not compliant and appropriate actions will be taken. Please note that the new regulations for the import and export of wood packaging do not apply to Canada's ongoing trade with the United States.



Entry of Untreated Non-Manufactured Wood Packaging
 
The importation or movement in-transit through Canada of untreated non-manufactured wood packaging materials from any area of the world is prohibited (excluding the continental U.S.). For more information, please click here


Entry of Treated Non-Manufactured Wood Packaging All non-manufactured wood packaging materials may enter Canada provided the material has been officially treated by one of methods specified by the CFIA. A logo or mark, officially endorsed by the National Plant Protection Organization (NPPO) of the country from which the wood packaging materials originates must be permanently affixed to each unit of wood packaging materials. For more information, please click here

Please note that an Import Permit and Phytosanitary Certificate is not required for the entry of treated non-manufactured wood packaging.


Exemptions
  • All wood packaging materials constructed entirely from manufactured wood including: dunnage, pallets, spacers, bearers, crating, etc.
  • All wood packaging materials constructed of wood of less than 6mm in thickness or from peeler cores.
  • Wood packing constructed from particles such as: sawdust, wood shavings, wood wool, etc.


Importers 

Importers who bring wood packaging into Canada must meet the Entry Requirements for Wood Dunnage, Pallets, Crating or Other Wood Packaging. Please click here for more information. After the phase-in period ends, wood packaging not compliant with the requirements may be destroyed, refused entry and returned to the country of origin, delayed and subjected to additional costs and fines.


Exporters Export shipments of wood packaging must meet the requirements of the export country. As the international standard for wood packaging is being adopted globally, other countries will also be implementing new regulations for imports. It is the responsibility of Canadian exporters to determine those export requirements. Non-compliant wood packaging from Canada that enters another country may be returned or subjected to additional costs and fines as well as shipment delays prior to being released to the importer. These consignments are also subject to Canadian export laws. The Government of Canada and industry have developed an export certification program, the Canadian Wood Packaging Certification Program (CWPCP), designed to meet the entry requirements of the European Union (EU). This information can be found on the CFIA Forestry Website

These new regulations will be phased in between January 2nd and October 1st, 2004. If you have any further questions or concerns please contact your local CFIA Office or call 1-800-442-2342.



Back to Top