BMSB Fumigation in Melbourne: Import Container Treatment for the 2025–26 Season

BMSB fumigation in Melbourne is a critical biosecurity requirement for import containers arriving during the seasonal risk period. These treatments protect Australia from invasive pests such as the Brown Marmorated Stink Bug (BMSB), timber insects, and other quarantine threats.

Datts Logistics operates a DAFF-approved fumigation facility in Laverton North, with capacity to treat up to 100 TEU at once. During the 2025–26 BMSB season (1 September 2025 to 30 April 2026), our licensed on-site fumigators provide fast, compliant treatment for cargo arriving from target risk countries.

As a result, importers avoid delays, vessel holds, and costly re-export orders.

What Is BMSB and Why Is Fumigation Required?

The Brown Marmorated Stink Bug is an invasive pest that poses a serious threat to Australia’s agricultural and horticultural industries. Originally from Asia, it has spread through Europe and North America, where it causes widespread crop damage.

Because of this risk, Australia enforces strict seasonal controls on imported goods.

During the BMSB risk period (September to April), cargo shipped from 41 target risk countries must meet treatment or inspection requirements before release.

In practice, this means:

• Target high-risk goods must be treated before release

• Target risk goods may be inspected and treated if BMSB is found

Without compliant treatment, goods may be:

• Held at the port

• Directed for fumigation under urgency

• Ordered for export

Consequently, untreated cargo can lead to missed delivery windows, lost sales, and damaged supplier relationships.

BMSB Season 2025–26: What Importers Need to Know

The 2025–26 BMSB season runs from 1 September 2025 to 30 April 2026. Importantly, the “shipped on board” date on the Bill of Lading determines whether seasonal measures apply.

Several updates apply this season.

Key changes for 2025–26

• Japan and the Republic of Korea are now listed as emerging risk countries and are subject to random inspections

• Airfreight from the USA and China may now face random inspection for target high-risk goods

• Ethyl Formate has been approved as an additional offshore treatment option

Target risk countries continue to include most of Europe, North America, East Asia, and parts of South America. For accuracy, importers should always confirm the current list via DAFF.

BMSB Treatment Requirements Explained

Treatment rules depend on cargo type and container configuration.

In general:

• Break bulk, flat rack, and open-top containers must be treated offshore

• FCL cargo in sealed hard-sided containers can be treated on arrival in Australia

• Onshore treatment may be performed at DAFF-approved facilities such as Datts Laverton North

All fumigation must be completed using approved methods, including:

• Sulfuryl Fluoride

• Methyl Bromide

• Heat Treatment

• Ethyl Formate

Because incorrect treatment can invalidate clearance, provider accreditation matters.

Datts Fumigation Facilities and Capabilities

Datts Logistics operates a DAFF 4.6-accredited fumigation facility in Laverton North. This accreditation authorises us to perform biosecurity treatments on import goods under controlled conditions.

Our capabilities include:

• 100 TEU fumigation capacity, allowing high-volume processing during peak BMSB season

• Licensed on-site fumigators, fully trained and accredited

• No subcontracting, meaning containers stay on one site

• Integrated container handling, including port collection, fumigation, storage, and delivery

• Fast turnaround, with most treatments completed within 48 hours

• Direct DAFF certification links, supporting efficient release

As a result, containers move through treatment without unnecessary handovers or delays.

Beyond BMSB: Other Fumigation Services

While BMSB drives seasonal demand, biosecurity requirements apply year-round.

For this reason, Datts Logistics also provides:

• Timber pest treatments for wooden packaging, pallets, and timber goods

• AQIS tailgate inspection support, including fumigation if contamination is detected

• Export fumigation, supporting phytosanitary requirements for overseas markets

• Methyl Bromide treatments, performed under strict environmental and safety controls

These services support both import and export supply chains.

How Fumigation Works at Datts Logistics

The fumigation process follows a clear, controlled sequence.

Step 1: Container arrival

Containers arrive at our fumigation pad via our fleet or nominated carriers.

Step 2: Pre-treatment checks

Documentation is reviewed and treatment requirements are confirmed.

Step 3: Fumigation

Licensed fumigators apply the approved treatment. Containers remain sealed for the exposure period.

Step 4: Aeration

After treatment, containers are ventilated until safe gas levels are reached.

Step 5: Certification

Fumigation certificates are issued and linked to the consignment for DAFF clearance.

Step 6: Release or onward handling

Containers may then be unpacked, stored, or delivered onward.

Why Choose Datts for Fumigation in Melbourne?

Importers choose Datts Logistics for practical reasons.

• All services under one roof, from transport to treatment to delivery

• No third-party delays, with fumigation completed on site

• High-capacity infrastructure, even during peak BMSB periods

• Experienced biosecurity team, familiar with complex cargo

• Strategic Laverton North location, close to the Port of Melbourne

Ultimately, this setup reduces risk, cost, and uncertainty during the BMSB season.

BMSB Fumigation You Can Rely On in Melbourne

For the 2025–26 BMSB season, compliant fumigation is not optional. Choosing the right provider protects your cargo, timelines, and commercial outcomes.

Datts Logistics delivers DAFF-approved fumigation, fast turnaround, and integrated container handling from our Laverton North facility.

If you are importing during BMSB season, planning early makes all the difference.