How to Store and Handle Wooden Pallets: Best Practices for Exporters

Wooden export pallets should be stored under cover on a dry, level surface, elevated off the ground, and away from direct contact with untreated timber. Improper storage can increase moisture content above safe export levels and compromise ISPM 15 compliance — turning a compliant pallet into a compliance risk before it reaches the container.

You have invested in ISPM 15-certified, IPPC-stamped pallets. But how you store and handle them between delivery and container loading can make or break their effectiveness. Here are the best practices every Sri Lankan exporter should follow.

Why Storage Matters

Moisture Re-Absorption

Kiln-dried pallets delivered at below 15% moisture content will absorb moisture from their environment if stored improperly. In Sri Lanka's tropical climate — with humidity regularly exceeding 80% — an uncovered pallet can absorb enough moisture in 1-2 weeks to exceed safe export levels.

This is especially critical for exporters shipping [tea](/pallets-for-tea-export), [spices and cinnamon](/pallets-for-spice-export), and [coconut products](/pallets-for-coconut-export) — all hygroscopic products that are damaged by pallet moisture.

IPPC Stamp Damage

The IPPC stamp is your proof of ISPM 15 compliance. If pallets are dragged across rough surfaces, stacked carelessly, or exposed to prolonged rain, the stamp can become illegible. An illegible stamp is treated the same as no stamp at all by customs authorities.

Pest Re-Infestation

Heat-treated pallets are pest-free when they leave the treatment facility. But if stored in contact with untreated timber, soil, or vegetation, they can be re-infested — and a re-infested pallet may be rejected at the destination port even if it carries a valid IPPC stamp.

Storage Best Practices

1. Store Under Cover

Always store pallets under a roof or tarpaulin. Direct rain exposure will rapidly increase moisture content and can cause mould growth within days. Even heavy dew in coastal areas can be problematic over time.

If covered storage is not available, use heavy-duty tarpaulins secured against wind. Ensure air circulation underneath the cover to prevent condensation.

2. Elevate Off the Ground

Never place pallets directly on bare ground, soil, or grass. Ground moisture wicks upward into the bottom boards. Use concrete flooring, a gravel bed, or place pallets on bearers to keep them elevated.

3. Allow Air Circulation

Stack pallets with uniform spacing to allow air movement between layers. Tight stacking in humid conditions creates micro-climates where moisture accumulates and mould thrives.

Maximum recommended stack height is 15 pallets for standard construction.

4. Separate from Untreated Timber

Do not store ISPM 15-treated pallets alongside untreated timber, raw logs, or wood waste. Untreated wood can harbour pests that migrate to treated pallets, compromising their compliance status.

5. First-In, First-Out

Use older pallets first. The longer a pallet sits in storage — especially in humid conditions — the more moisture it absorbs. A first-in, first-out rotation ensures pallets are used while their moisture content is still within specification.

Pre-Loading Inspection Checklist

Before loading pallets into a container, check each one for:

If any pallet fails these checks, do not use it for export. Replace it with a compliant pallet.

Use our [Moisture Content Calculator](/moisture-content-calculator) to verify MC levels from meter readings or weight measurements.

Handling Best Practices

Forklift Operation

Loading into Containers

What to Do If Pallets Get Wet

If pallets are exposed to rain or flooding:

1. Move them to a dry, covered area immediately

2. Separate wet pallets from dry stock

3. Allow them to air-dry with good ventilation for 3-5 days

4. Re-check moisture content with a meter before use

5. If MC is above 15%, do not use for export — contact your pallet supplier for replacements

CeyPall Delivery and Storage Support

CeyPall delivers pallets on a scheduled basis aligned with your container stuffing schedule, minimising storage time at your facility. For clients with limited covered storage, we can arrange just-in-time delivery within 3-5 working days of your loading date.

All pallets are delivered at below 15% MC and are stored in our covered facility until dispatch. Contact us to set up a recurring delivery schedule that matches your export cycle.