U.S. Paper Shipments Declined in August
Total industry shipments fell by 7% in August 2026 compared to the same month last year.
Updated on Sept. 20, 2026 in Economic Indicators
The American Forest & Paper Association reported that total U.S. printing-writing paper shipments decreased by 7% in August 2026. During the same period, total paper inventory levels experienced a 1% increase.
Why it matters
Tracking shipment and inventory trends provides critical insight into the health of the broader forest products sector. These figures reflect shifts in domestic supply and demand dynamics across major paper categories.
Total industry shipments decreased 7% in August 2026 versus the prior year, while inventory levels rose 1% over the previous month. Net imports across UFS, CFS, and MECH categories increased by 26% in July 2026 compared to July 2025.
The players
American Forest & Paper Association
This organization acts as the national trade association for the U.S. paper and wood products manufacturing industry.
U.S. Census Bureau
This federal agency is the primary source of American demographic and economic data, including trade statistics.
The details
Data sourced from the U.S. Census Bureau highlights a significant rise in imports for the period of July 2026, with UFS net imports up 38%, CFS up 51%, and MECH up 13% compared to July 2025. These increases occurred despite a reported uptick in total purchases of printing-writing papers in July 2026 relative to July 2025.
Timeline
July 2025 served as the comparison baseline for import and purchase data.
July 2026 was the month reported for net import and purchase statistics.
August 2025 acted as the baseline for the annual shipment comparison.
August 2026 was the period when shipments decreased and inventory levels increased.
Macro View
The forest products industry represents 4.7% of U.S. manufacturing GDP and produces $435 billion in annual value. Recent shipment fluctuations reflect the broader pressures on this sector which serves as a top employer in 44 states.
With 925,000 workers employed in the U.S. forest products industry, shifts in production volumes can signal broader labor market trends. These indicators are monitored by businesses that rely on paper-based manufacturing and logistics.
The takeaway
Industry data reflects a complex environment where shipments are slowing while inventories rise. These shifting metrics offer a lens into the supply chain challenges currently facing U.S. manufacturing sectors.
Further reading
For broader trends on the national economy, explore the Economic Indicators section.
