Phytosanitary controls are intended to prevent plant-borne diseases that could damage agriculture, horticulture and populations.
Many countries require certificates confirming that plants and plant products are free from pests and diseases.
These documents are called phytosanitary certificates.
The requirement can also apply to wood packaging material used to transport goods.
Examples include:
Pallets
Wooden boxes.
Wood shavings.
Wood packaging must have evidence that it has been heat-treated or fumigated to prevent disease transmission.
The source states that phytosanitary certificates are issued by the Forestry Commission to the equivalent national plant protection organisation in the importing country.
Applications may be made by post or online after registering with the Forestry Commission.
Certificates confirm that the material has been inspected, is considered free from pests and conforms to the importing country's plant health regulations.