U.S. packaging papers shipments in November 2018 were essentially flat compared to November 2017 and up 2.8% year-to-date. The operating rate for November dropped to 89.5% compared to 95.6% in October. Inventories increased 7.1% since October but were 1.7% lower than the same month last year.

Packaging

U.S. packaging papers shipments flat in November

U.S. packaging papers shipments in November 2018 were essentially flat compared to November 2017 and up 2.8% year-to-date, as the American Forest & Paper Association reported.

Bag & Sack shipments were up 5.3% year-to-date; Multiwall shipments were up 0.3%; Converting shipments were up 1%; and Food Wrapping shipments were up 2.5%.

The operating rate for November dropped to 89.5% compared to 95.6% in October. Inventories increased 7.1% since October but were 1.7% lower than the same month last year.

The American Forest & Paper Association serves to advance a sustainable U.S. pulp, paper, packaging, tissue and wood products manufacturing industry through fact-based public policy and marketplace advocacy.