The Export Packing Declaration: Your Shield Against Costly Biosecurity Delays

What an Export Packing Declaration is

An Export Packing Declaration (EPD) is a declaration made by the exporter, packer, freight forwarder or their authorised agent that describes the packaging used for an export consignment and confirms whether the packing material meets applicable biosecurity and treatment requirements. Its purpose is to provide destination authorities with the information they need to assess and manage pest, disease or contamination risks associated with packaging materials.

Why it matters (beginner-friendly)

Many countries have strict rules about packing materials because pests and plant diseases can hide in or on packaging — especially untreated wood. An accurate EPD helps customs and biosecurity agencies quickly confirm that packing meets required standards (for example, ISPM 15 for wood packaging) so shipments clear the border without extra inspection, treatment or return. Put simply: a good EPD can prevent expensive delays, treatment costs and reputational damage.

Who completes the EPD

The responsible party varies by trade practice and legal requirements. Commonly the exporter, the company that packed the goods, the freight forwarder, or an authorised customs agent will complete and submit the EPD. The person completing it should have direct knowledge of the packing materials and any treatments applied.

When and how to lodge an EPD

An EPD is typically completed before goods leave the exporting country and often at the time export paperwork or electronic export declarations are lodged. Many administrations accept electronic submission via a single-window export system or through a freight forwarder’s portals; some jurisdictions still accept or require a signed paper declaration. Check the destination country’s requirements and the transport provider’s instructions to ensure timely submission.

What information an EPD usually includes

• Exporter and shipper contact details
• Consignee and country of final destination
• Detailed description of the goods
• Type of packing (e.g., wooden crate, pallet, cardboard box, plastic container)
• Material of packing and whether it is solid wood, plywood, particle board, cardboard, plastic, metal, etc.
• Treatment information for regulated materials (for example, ISPM 15 stamp details such as HT for heat treatment, MB for methyl bromide fumigation)
• Declaration that packing materials are free from soil, plant material or other contaminants
• Date of packing and signature or electronic authorisation of the declarant

Real-world examples (simple)

• If you pack goods on a wooden pallet, the EPD should state whether the pallet is compliant with ISPM 15 and include the stamp number or treatment type.
• If using cardboard or plastic crates, the EPD should state the material and confirm that they were clean and free from organic residue at packing.

Consequences of an incomplete or incorrect EPD

An inaccurate or missing EPD can trigger extra inspections on arrival, mandatory treatments (fumigation or heat treatment), quarantine detention, re-exportation, fines, and delays measured in days or weeks. These outcomes can lead to direct costs (treatment fees, storage, transport) and indirect costs (lost sales, damaged client relationships). Many delays are avoidable when the EPD is accurate and submitted on time.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Assuming all packing is acceptable — some materials are regulated.
• Failing to record the treatment method or ISPM 15 stamp details for wood packaging.
• Leaving gaps between the packing station and the person who signs the EPD (the signer must know the facts).
• Not keeping evidence such as treatment certificates, photos of packing, or supplier invoices.
• Submitting the EPD too late or to the wrong authority/system.

Beginner best practices — a quick checklist

• Plan early: decide packing materials before the packing process starts.
• Use compliant materials: choose ISPM 15-stamped wood or non-regulated alternatives (plastic, metal, cardboard) when practical.
• Train packers: ensure staff understand what must be declared and how packing should be cleaned and inspected.
• Document treatments: obtain and retain treatment certificates and photos of packed consignments.
• Assign responsibility: clearly name who completes and signs the EPD, and ensure they have accurate information.
• Lodge on time: submit the EPD before export and retain copies in your records for the period required by local regulations.

Step-by-step implementation for small exporters

1. Decide on packing materials during product planning and communicate requirements to packers and suppliers.
2. Inspect or require suppliers to certify that packing materials are clean and treated if needed.
3. Record all treatment details and capture photos at packing as evidence.
4. Complete the EPD accurately using your export platform, freight forwarder’s system, or the destination authority’s form.
5. Keep a signed copy or electronic record and provide a copy to the carrier and consignee if required.
6. Review and update processes periodically, especially if new destination rules apply.

Friendly closing advice



Think of the EPD as a small extra step that protects your shipment from big problems. It’s a simple way to communicate to border authorities that you’ve taken biosecurity seriously. Investing a little time in correct packing, clear documentation and early submission often saves time and money and keeps your customers happy.