Effective Oct. 1, Lacey Act Declaration Required for New Wood Pallets

Trade Update • SEPTEMBER 2, 2021

With the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service’s implementation of Phase VI of the Lacey Act enforcement schedule, which comes into force on October 1, 2021, importers are reminded that a key addition to this requirement is that of wooden pallets.

However, as pointed out in a recent Cargo Systems Message, “APHIS will only require a declaration for new products in Harmonized Tariff Code 4415 that are formally entering the United States. The declaration requirement will not apply to used, recycled, or reclaimed pallets or to pallets, empty or under load, that are used to carry goods imported into the United States.” (Emphasis added.)

Only new or unused wood pallets (along with cases, boxes, crates, drums, containers of 44.15) will require an import declaration containing the scientific name of the plant, import value, quantity, and country of origin.

Related Information

• APHIS Announces October Start Date for Phase VI of Lacey Act Enforcement
• Reminder: Phase VI of Lacey Act Enforcement Starts Oct. 1st