Total U.S. packaging papers and specialty packaging shipments decreased 10% in November 2025 compared to October, according to the American Forest & Paper Association.
Compared to November 2024, shipments were up 1%. Year-to-date shipments for the first 11 months of 2025 remain 1% ahead of the same period in 2024.
The operating rate for unbleached packaging papers decreased to 79.0%, its second-lowest monthly rate of the year. Industry capacity was down 1.6% year-to-date. Bleached food wrapping shipments decreased 2.2% compared to November 2024 but are up 7.4% for the year to date.
Total inventories of packaging papers were up 6.2% compared to the same month last year.
