Total U.S. Packaging Papers & Specialty Packaging Shipments Increased 10% in October 2024

Nov. 21, 2024 - The American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) released the October 2024 Packaging Papers Monthly report. According to the report, total packaging papers & specialty packaging shipments in October increased 10% compared to October 2023. They were up 11% when compared to the same 10 months of 2023.

The operating rate for unbleached packaging papers was 85.3%, up 2.9 points from October 2023 and up 5.8 points year-to-date.

Shipments of the biggest subgrade in bleached packaging papers — food wrapping — were 24,300 short tons for the month of October, down 4.7% from the same month last year and down 0.5% year-to-date.

The complete report with detailed tables, charts and historical data can be purchased by contacting Kory Bockman at Statistics_Publications@afandpa.org or 202-463-4716.

About AF&PA

The American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) serves to advance U.S. paper and wood products manufacturers through fact-based public policy and marketplace advocacy. The forest products industry is circular by nature. AF&PA member companies make essential products from renewable and recycle resources, generate renewable bioenergy and are committed to continuous improvement through the industry's sustainability initiative — Better Practices, Better Planet 2030: Sustainable Products for a Sustainable Future.

The forest products industry accounts for approximately 5% of the total U.S. manufacturing GDP, manufactures about $350 billion in products annually and employs about 925,000 people. The industry meets a payroll of about $65 billion annually and is among the top 10 manufacturing sector employers in 43 states.

SOURCE: AF&PA