Total U.S. Boxboard Production Increased Five Percent in Q4 2024

The U.S. boxboard operating rate in Q4 2024 was 84.7%, up 3.8 points from the same quarter last year and up 3.3 points year-to-date.

Feb. 3, 2025 - The American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) has released the Q4 2024 Boxboard report. According to the report, total Boxboard production in Q4 increased 5% compared to Q4 2023.

The Boxboard operating rate was 84.7%, up 3.8 points from the same quarter last year and up 3.3 points year-to-date.

• Solid Bleached Boxboard unmade orders were down 8% compared to the end of the previous quarter and increased 42% compared to December 2023.
• Solid Bleached Folding — Domestic production increased 15% compared to Q4 2023.
• Uncoated Recycled Boxboard production increased 3% compared to Q4 2023 and was up 3% when compared to the same 12 months of 2023.

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