Pallets, boards, crates and containers
Reused material can make a great shelter, but only if you know where it came from and what state it is in. The checklist is your own check, not a certificate.
What pallet marks mean
- HT
- heat treatment
- MB
- methyl bromide fumigation
- Other codes
- other approved treatments exist; check the current ISPM 15
An ISPM 15 mark confirms a phytosanitary treatment of wood packaging for international trade.
It does not confirm the pallet's later history and does not guarantee it was never exposed to oil, chemicals or other contamination.
When not to use timber
Old structures may contain CCA-treated wood (chromium, copper, arsenic). It must not be burned, sawing needs dust protection, and Šapice rejects unknown old treated timber wherever an animal could chew or lick it.
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency · Chromated Arsenicals (CCA)
Check the material before use
Answer every question before using the material.
Where to find material
- Clean foam boxes: fishmongers, pharmacies, labs, restaurants.
- Plastic totes: donations, classifieds, neighbours.
- Lumber offcuts: building supply stores, joinery workshops, contractors.
- Animal welfare groups and TNR teams often have material or know who does.
Never take material without the owner's permission.
Quick check
- Clean
- Dry
- Undamaged
- Known previous use
- No chemical contamination
- Suits the intended role (structure, lining, insulation)
- Design class: ReuseFoam Shipping Box Shelter
- Design class: ReuseEPS Core in Plastic Shell
- Design class: ReuseWooden Crate Shelter
- Design class: ReuseScrap Wood Cat Box
- Design class: ReusePallet Mini Cat Shelter
- Design class: ReuseScrap Timber Dog House Small
- Design class: ReuseScrap Timber Dog House Medium
- Design class: ReuseScrap Timber Dog House Large
- Design class: ReusePallet Basic Dog House