US packaging papers shipments down 1.6% in October

Total U.S. packaging papers shipments in October 2017 were 223,400 tons, 1.6% lower than October 2016. Bag & sack shipments are up 3.3% year-to-date, while food wrapping shipments are down 7.1% over the same period, as the American Forest & Paper Association reported.

The operating rate for October 2017 was 85.5%, while the year-to-date rate was 88.3%. Inventories were 167,800 tons, down slightly since September.

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.