Nov 27, 2012. /Lesprom Network/. U.S. printing-writing paper shipments decreased 2% in October 2012 compared to October 2011, primarily driven by declines in uncoated mechanical shipments, s the American Forest & Paper Association as the company said in the press release received by Lesprom Network. October shipments of coated free sheet papers increased year-over-year for the fifth time in the past 12 months, reaching the highest level since September 2010. Shipments of uncoated free sheet paper in October increased 2% over the same period in 2011, with mill inventories at the lowest level since July 1995. October uncoated mechanical paper shipments decreased 23% compared to October 2011, with YTD shipments down 16% relative to the previous year. The American Forest & Paper Association is the national trade association of the forest products industry, representing pulp, paper, packaging and wood products manufacturers, and forest landowners.