Kamps Inc. Acquires Florida Pallet Recycler, Transaction Reveals Keys for M&A Activity - Apr 27, 2021
Pallet Industries (PI) was established in 2007 and has two strategic locations that have allowed Pallet Industries to cover the majority of the state for many years; including key markets such as Orlando, Tampa and Miami.; CHEP Revises ARP for General Recycler Market: This move to a higher ARP isn’t really a surprise as California and other areas move into agriculture season. At the same time, demand for general consumer goods remains robust.; Tips to Safeguard Pallet Stacks at Customer Locations: Sometimes this activity results from a misunderstanding, scavengers believe pallets left outside of retail or distribution facilities are just trash. Others may knowingly take pallets hoping they won’t get caught.; CHEP Reports Quarterly Results, Record Demand from Customers Strains Pool: Brambles believes its sales will moderate somewhat in the next quarter. But there is no guarantee because the company has already admitted that it has struggled to forecast consumer activity due to the unprecedented factors at play.; Labor Solutions Covered in Industry Webinar: Chaille Brindley, recently spoke at the annual Ohio Forestry Association’s annual meeting, which was held virtually this year. He covered some major labor trends and issues in the overall forest products industry. more...
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CHEP Reports Quarterly Results, Record Demand from Customers Strains Pool - Apr 22, 2021
Brambles believes its sales will moderate somewhat in the next quarter. But there is no guarantee because the company has already admitted that it has struggled to forecast consumer activity due to the unprecedented factors at play.; News in Brief: Automated Machine Systems (AMS), a leading supplier of pallet recycling equipment and software systems, has launched a $1.5 million expansion for its headquarters. Timber Trades Journal (TTJ) recently reported on developments in the European pallet sector.; AUCTIONS: FRIDAY, MAY 7th • STARTS PROMPTLY AT 9AM. 141 N Church St • Bremen KY 42325. ASSOCIATED PALLET INC. SATURDAY, MAY 8th LARGE SALE STARTS 9 AM! 288 Premium Dr. • Central City, KY 42330 more...
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Brambles Outlines Sustainability Targets, Offers Lessons for Communicating with Pallet Users - Apr 15, 2021
While this may just sound like PR-speak, it does provide food for thought as you consider how you talk about your business to customers, employees, partners and even new hires.; Looking for Lumber? Search the 2021 Lumber Pages!: It certainly has become a seller’s market. In uncertain markets, you may need to reach out to new lumber sources.; Virginia Tech Offers Short Course on Wood Properties at EXPO Richmond 2021: It will take place on May 20, 2021 at Hilton Garden Inn near the Richmond International Airport and is designed to assist wood pallet and packaging suppliers among other fields. more...
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Biden Administration Rolls Out Economic Plans - Apr 8, 2021
Many pallet companies are reporting difficulty getting new workers and have pointed to government assistance as a major reason for the lack of available workers. The move to extend the $300 monthly unemployment insurance supplement into September will only continue the labor woes.; Discover Why Wood Wins the Sustainability Case: The NWPCA is celebrating Earth Day 2021 (April 22nd) by hosting a webinar on sustainability. The event is free for NWPCA members and their customers and seating is limited, so interested parties should register today. more...
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CHEP Revises ARP for General Recycler Market - Apr 1, 2021
This action suggests that CHEP is finding some market opposition to its previous efforts to reduce ARP fees.; Labor Solutions Covered in Industry Webinar: Chaille Brindley, recently spoke at the Ohio Forestry Association’s virtual annual meeting covering major labor trends and issues.; Quarterly Regional Lumber Trends: These graphs illustrate the average lumber prices published within each region over the past year. more...
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Kamps Inc. Acquires Florida Pallet Recycler, Outlines What Makes for A Successful Transaction - Mar 26, 2021
Kamps recently acquired Pallet Industries of Florida to expand its footprint in the Southeast. Pallet Industries (PI) was established in 2007 and has two locations in Florida: Deerfield (South) and Mulberry (Central). The strategic locations of the two facilities have allowed Pallet Industries to cover the majority of the state for many years; including key markets such as Orlando, Tampa and Miami.; Tips to Safeguard Pallet Stacks at
Customer Locations: Sometimes this activity results from a misunderstanding, scavengers believe pallets left outside of retail or distribution facilities are just trash. Others may knowingly take pallets hoping they won’t get caught. more...
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U.S. Housing Market Continues Strong Upward Push - Mar 19, 2021
Month-over-month and year-over-year United States housing market data were mostly positive. Aggregate multi-family starts decreased month-over-month and year-over year. New and existing house sales were positive month-over-month and year-over-year.; Sunbelt Continues Growth in Treated Wood Business through Acquisition: A subsidiary of UFP Industries, Sunbelt has agreed to purchase the assets of Spartanburg Forest Products Corp. for about $17 million. more...
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Tips for Selecting the Right Grinding Equipment to Turn Waste into Profit - Mar 19, 2021
This guide has information on various suppliers, technologies and tips to consider when selecting the right grinder to fit your needs.; Tips for Pallet Companies Caught in Insurance Squeeze: Pallet companies are being squeezed because the industry has experienced numerous fire-related losses in years past, according to insurance officials.; Pallet Industry Meetings and Events Scheduled for 2021: While the events could be impacted by new outbreaks or local ordinances, it is still a good idea to develop a game plan and register for any event you would like to attend. more...
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Hardwood Export Leader Shares Insights on Foreign Markets - Mar 12, 2021
Michael Snow, the executive direct of the American Hardwood Export Council (AHEC) recently sat down with the Profile and explained the latest developments in Asia, especially China, and how it could have ripple effects here in the United States.; Virginia Tech Offers Short Course at EXPO Richmond 2021: If you want to better understand wood properties and the relationship between water and wood, don’t miss a training course being held in conjunction with EXPO Richmond. more...
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Global Issues Could Impact Domestic Supply - Mar 5, 2021
Over the last two decades, China has become an even larger buyer on the global wood market since the nation reduced its use of domestic logs and timber to preserve forests. Both the United States and Russia have become major suppliers of wood material (including logs and lumber) to China. However, Russia may ban the export of softwood logs and high-value hardwood logs by the end of 2021.; SLB Increases Assessment Rate: These funds are used for softwood lumber research, innovation, promotion, consumer education and industry information. Checkoffs are designed to boost markets for agricultural products.; Hurricane Michael Remnants Pose Wildfire Dangers Years Later: An estimated 550 million trees in Florida, weighing 72 million tons, were damaged or destroyed by the storm.; NEWS IN BRIEF: EPAL recently reported that its Euro pallets are being used to safely transport coronavirus vaccines throughout Europe. more...
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CHEP Develops Plastic Pallet Trial for Costco, No Roll Out Planned Yet - Feb 25, 2021
The challenges are clear. A plastic pallet is at least three times the cost of a quality wooden pooled pallet. While there are some system benefits to plastic, somebody has to be willing to pay for the higher-priced asset.; Price Increases Show U.S. Trends Mirrored in Europe: European lumber producers have increased shipments to the United States given the skyrocketing lumber prices here.
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Nail Prices Rise Pushed by Steel Spikes and Shipping Challenges - Feb 23, 2021
The primary drivers are rising steel costs in conjunction with skyrocketing international freight costs. Besides just rising steel costs, importers are facing shipping challenges and unparalleled freight cost hikes.; Recycle Record Launches New Logo and Design: This is the first step of a plan to better refresh the brands, integrate the websites and prepare for a new website launch in 2021.;Brambles Results Strong Pallet Demand, CHEP Institutes Customer Surcharges: One very interesting development over the last few years is Costco pushing for a rental plastic pallet program with CHEP.; Do Your Employees Have Grit? Start thinking about core values, recognition and how pallet companies can work to produce a better culture.
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Pallet Industry Meetings and Events Scheduled for 2021 - Feb 19, 2021
While the events could be impacted by new outbreaks or local ordinances, it is still a good idea to develop a game plan and register for any event you would like to attend. Event sponsors and hotels are providing liberal refund policies in most cases. Be sure to check first when registering.; Pallet Profile Launches New Logo and Design: As part of a plan to better refresh the brands, integrate the websites and prepare for a new website launch in 2021, Pallet Profile and Recycle Record have both launched new color schemes, logos and designs for the print and online publications. more...
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First Year Outlook for Key Policy Considerations in the Biden-Harris Administration - Feb 12, 2021
It looks like a mixed bag with some positives and negatives. The first priority is getting its cabinet passed through Congress and installed. Then comes additional COVID relief followed by climate change legislation.; Top 10 Softwood Lumber Producers List: Forisk Consulting Inc. has published its list of top lumber producers in the United States. A number of these are Canadian companies that have bought up capacity in this country. more...
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Nail Prices Rise Pushed by Steel Spikes and Shipping Demands - Feb 5, 2021
Besides just rising steel costs, importers are facing shipping challenges and unparalleled freight cost hikes.; Large Building Materials Distributor Acquires Villaume Industries: Although it does produce some pallets and specialty crating, the company primarily services the construction market with its wood truss manufacturing expertise. more...
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FCA Packaging Acquires Timber Creek Resource - Jan 29, 2021
Steve Everett, Jr., president of Timber Creek, said the company started a search process over a year ago to help its founder Gary LeMaster, transition into retirement and new ventures.; Study Shows Hygienic Benefits of Wood Surfaces: Based on a research project conducted by universities in Eastern Finland, the initial tests suggest that the contagiousness of coronaviruses decreases much more rapidly on a wooden surface compared to other materials. more...
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Greenway to Open New Facility in Baltimore, Shares Lessons on Developing a New Location - Jan 22, 2021
The new location should be fully operational by March and will produce over 20,000 pallets per week. Some existing business contacts provided a basic book of business to help launch the facility, and it fits into the company’s plan to grow stronger in the region.; Winter 2021 White Paper Special Report: The new year has started out with a bang. Both softwood and hardwood are showing signs of tremendous price pressure. To explain recent market events, the staff of the Pallet Profile has developed a two-page White Paper for subscribers to share with their pallet customers. more...
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Greenway Announces New Facility in Baltimore, Shares Lessons on Plant Startup - Jan 22, 2021
It is expected to be fully operational in March. The new plant will produce over 20,000 pallets per week and will augment existing facilities in New York and New Jersey, and it fits into the company’s plan to grow stronger in the region.; Winter 2021 White Paper Special Report: Tremendous price pressure is pushing prices for low-grade lumber up. This is further complicating efforts by recyclers to obtain lumber for repair operations. Many recyclers are doing whatever they can to process and obtain recycled lumber.; Recycle Bits: A measure of U.S. manufacturing expanded in December at the fastest pace in more than two years. OSHA is currently accepting electronic submission of Form 300A. Paramount Pallet has opened the largest recycling facility in Canada. Congress passed the second coronavirus stimulus package. more...
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Continued Strong Demand Coupled with Low Availability and Mill Output Lead to Soaring Prices Entering 2021 - Jan 19, 2021
Once again, the hardwood and softwood markets appear to be on course to reach historic high prices. more...
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Emergency Coronavirus Relief Act of 2020 Includes Logger Assistance - Jan 15, 2021
This supplemental relief package allotted $200 million to provide relief to timber harvesting and timber hauling businesses that have, as a result of the COVID–19 pandemic, experienced a loss of not less than 10% in gross revenue during 2020 compared to 2019. Loggers were considered essential workers from the start, however, they were not targeted for relief funds.; Truck Driver Shortage Persists, Made Worse by Pandemic: While there were shortages and concerns, the sector has proved to be resilient despite aging infrastructure and labor challenges. Trucking companies worked extended shifts to ensure essential supplies were delivered, but the glaring weakness in the trucking sector is the lack of qualified truck drivers.; News in Brief: Paramount Pallet has opened the largest recycling facility in Canada. more...
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What the New Stimulus Bill Means for PPP Funding - Jan 8, 2021
Some provisions will help small businesses; others could hurt the labor pool, such as the extension of unemployment benefits and stimulus checks.; News in Brief: Bloomberg reported just this week that a measure of U.S. manufacturing expanded in December at the fastest pace in more than two years.; Profile Regional Lumber Trends: For reporting lumber price trends graphically, the U.S. is divided into six regions, five for hardwood cants and the western for Doug Fir RL softwood. These graphs illustrate the average lumber prices published within each region over the past year. more...
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Year Ends with Major Industry Acquisitions - Dec 23, 2020
UFP Industries has agreed to acquire PalletOne for approximately, and Grey Mountain Partners sold 48forty Solutions, formerly CHEP Recycled, to Audax Private Equity.; 2021 Industry Events Rescheduled: The NWPCA is scheduled to hold its annual leadership conference in Orlando, Florida on March 3-5 and The WPA has rescheduled its 2021 annual meeting to April 16-20th at Rancho Mirage, California. The Virginia Forest Products Association is moving ahead with plans for its 37th EXPO Richmond show to be held May 21-22, 2021.; Research Raises Concerns about Pallet Safety Risks in Retail Stores and Home Projects: The lower extremities were the most often injured body parts in pallet-related accidents. The overall severity of injuries is likely low, however, a small percentage were severe enough to require hospitalization.; Merry Christmas to all of our readers! more...
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Three Pallet Industry Companies Recognized for HR Excellence, Community Impact - Dec 23, 2020
A story in Christianity Today magazine highlights how pallet companies are taking initiative to develop outreach efforts to their blue-collar workforce and communities.; European Pallet Industry Prepares for Brexit Transition Challenges: There are serious consequences if EU suppliers do not use ISPM15 pallets for shipping goods, and these include fixed and variable monetary penalties ranging from £250 to £250,000.; Holiday Schedule: As we arrive at Christmas once again, we want to wish our readers a very special Merry Christmas. This will be our last market report of the year. more...
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UFP Industries Agrees to Buy PalletOne Inc. - Dec 18, 2020
The company just announced its biggest move into the sector. PalletOne is the largest pallet manufacturer in
North America with 17 pallet manufacturing facilities in the southern and eastern regions of the country.; COVID-19 Concerns Related to Most OSHA Inspections: Companies should evaluate their workplace and work to eliminate ways that a respiratory virus can spread, such as improving distancing between work stations, training employers on PPE, requiring greater sanitation and cleaning practices, etc. more...
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Research Raises Concerns about Pallet Safety Risks in Retail Stores and Home Projects - Dec 11, 2020
The first-ever investigation of non-occupational injuries that occur due to unintentional contact with pallets yielded startling statistics. The good news is that most of these injuries did not require hospitalization. But the research does show that pallets can be dangerous if people misuse them.; 2021 Industry Events Rescheduled: The Virginia Forest Products Association is moving ahead with plans for its 37th EXPO Richmond show to be held May 21-22, 2021 at the Richmond Raceway Complex. more...
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Grey Mountain Partners Sells 48forty Solutions to Audax Private Equity - Dec 4, 2020
48forty Solutions is one of the largest pallet management services companies in North America, with a national network of over 225 facilities, including 44 company-owned and operated plants and more than 180 affiliates.; CHEP Offers Higher ARP to Smaller Recyclers: Whether or not the fee is fair or amounts to unjust enrichment is another matter. At the same time, recyclers can decide if they want to participate in the CHEP ARP.; Holiday Schedule: Pallet Profile will not be published January 1, 2021, according to our regular schedule. After the New Year, the Profile will be published again on January 8, 2021. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all of our readers! more...
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Is It Time to Revisit Pallet Standards? Recycler Highlights Creative Cores - Nov 24, 2020
Increasingly, we are hearing from recyclers about creative cores that are coming into their shop. We define a creative core as a pallet that lacks critical components, one that surprisingly held a load but most recyclers wouldn’t want their name associated with. Andy Archer of Cleveland Custom Pallet & Crate recently submitted pictures of creative cores.; CHEP Offers Higher ARP to Small Recyclers: This fall, CHEP has offered smaller recyclers across the country a higher rate than what has been offered last year to pallet recyclers.; Recycle Bits: The NWPCA has worked with the ALSC to change existing requirements on mark obliteration for pallet recyclers. OSHA has issued guidelines for improving workplace ventilation. The Pallet Foundationjust completed a rebrand initiative that coincides with the launch of a new logo and website. According to the latest figures October’s shipping volumes surpassed year-ago levels. more...
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Pallet Foundation Announces Major Environmental Study Results - Nov 24, 2020
Until now the wood pallet sector had a good story to tell. But it lacked independent, scientific proof to back up its claims. That has now changed with the first of its kind in the distribution packaging space Life Cycle Assessment.; USDA Decides to Offer No Pandemic Assistance to Loggers: This decision came after a bipartisan group of lawmakers called for aid to the beleaguered sector. As with the first CFAP package, timber was left off the list. Zero dollars went to loggers. more...
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What a Biden Administration Might Mean - Nov 20, 2020
It looks like a mixed bag with some good and a fair amount of bad too. How aggressive Biden could be all hinges on control of the Senate. If the Democrats win both Georgia Senate races, they get control of both chambers of Congress by the slimmest of margins.; News in Brief: The NWPCA has worked with the ALSC to change existing requirements on mark obliteration for pallet recyclers. Tolko Industries Ltd. and Jasper Lumber Company have announced a joint-venture partnership in an existing sawmill. Northwest Hardwoods Inc. has entered into a restructuring support agreement. more...
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Improve Your Pallet IQ: Virginia Tech Center Offers Internships and Co-Ops - Nov 13, 2020
One of the best places to find top talent for the industry is the pallet and packaging program at Virginia Tech. A number of large pallet companies have found successful new hires by hiring students on a short-term basis.; OSHA Releases Guidance on Proper Ventilation to Reduce COVID-19 Spread: Employers should work with an HVAC professional to consider steps to optimize building ventilation, and ensure that the system is operating as intended. more...
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Industry Conversation: European Industry Leader Explores Brexit and UK Compliance Efforts - Nov 6, 2020
John Dye is the head of the Timber Packaging and Pallet Confederation (TIMCON), a pallet industry trade association in the United Kingdom (UK). He also is technical and industry affairs director-manufacturing for Scott Pallets in the United Kingdom.; WPA Launches New Website, Offers Improved Visitor Experience: The new website has been completely restructured to provide members and visitors with: an easier way to learn about the association, what’s new in the world of the western pallet industry, new ways to connect with other members and join as a new member. more...
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2020 Trends – Christmas Season Comes Early This Year - Oct 30, 2020
A lot more people will be shopping online and the season will be longer than normal with fewer single day sales events where everyone rushes into the stores at one time.; Forest Services Offers Wood Innovation and Energy Grants: The aim of the program is to substantially expand and accelerate wood energy and wood products markets throughout the United States. more...
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PECO Pallet Inc. Sold to Global Investment Firm - Oct 26, 2020
One of the largest pallet rental companies in North America has been acquired by U.S.-based Alinda Capital Partners and Universities Superannuation Scheme. PECO is positioned to grow if the new owners are willing to invest in gaining market share and adding to the size of its pool. The company has been owned by the Pritzker Group since 2011.; Modern’s Annual Pallet Growth Highlights Customer Concerns: The results suggest that pallets are as important as ever with used/recycled pallets taking over the top spot.; Brambles Announces Five-year Sustainability Goals: The company is continuing its environmental focus after making some good strides with its 2020 Zero Deforestation, Zero Emissions and Zero Waste agendas.; Plant Fire Recovery Tips: These preparation and action steps can make the difference between getting what you deserve and settling for less than full replacement value.; Global Hardwood Pulp Prices Drop to 16-Year Low: Over the past year, fiber prices (in US dollars) have fallen the most in Brazil, Russia, Eastern Canada, France, Chile, and the U.S. South (in descending order). more...
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Brambles Announces Sustainability Plan, Seeks to Improve Upon Its Accomplishments - Oct 23, 2020
According to Dr. JJ Freijo, Brambles’ Global Head of Sustainability, “For us ‘regenerative’ means restoring, replenishing and creating more value or capital for society and the environment than the business takes out.; Pallet Foundation Undergoes Rebranding, Launches New Website: “The new logo and colors, connect the sustainability element to the product that truly moves the world — the wooden pallet. We chose warm colors that connect the product with the environment,” commented Brent McClendon, Pallet Foundation secretary. more...
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Modern’s Annual Pallet Growth Highlights Customer Concerns - Oct 16, 2020
The results suggest that pallets are as important as ever with used/recycled pallets taking over the top spot.; Report Suggests Global Pallet Market to Rise 2 Billion by 2027: Forecasts are that wood pallets will grow at an annual rate of 4.4% compared to 3.2% for plastic.; Plant Fire Recovery Tips: Navigating the insurance claim process can be tricky. These preparation and action steps can make the difference between getting what you deserve and settling for less than full replacement value. more...
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PECO Pallet Inc. Sold to Major Private Investors - Oct 9, 2020
PECO is positioned to grow if the new owners are willing to invest in gaining market share and adding to the size of its pool. The company has been owned by the Pritzker Group since 2011.; Congress Considers Wildfire and Forest Health Reforms: It is disappointing that it takes a tragedy and loss of life and property to drive this discussion, but at least there is bipartisan recognition that removing hazardous fuel loads and thinning overstocked stands on federal forests could help the situation. more...
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Senators and Industry Call for Assistance for Loggers and Log Haulers - Oct 2, 2020
Senator Susan Collins (R-ME) introduced the Loggers Relief Act earlier this year. This legislation would authorize USDA to provide direct support to loggers and log haulers who experienced at least a 10% loss in the first seven months of 2020 (as compared to 2019).; NEWS IN BRIEF: The U.S. government has appealed a ruling issued last month by the WTO involving the U.S. duties on softwood Canadian lumber imports. he Ontario provincial government recently awarded Oxford Pallet $2 million under the province’s Forest Sector Investment and Innovation Program. more...
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Housing Is Bright Spot in U.S. Economic Recovery, Still Faces Some Challenges - Sep 25, 2020
The new single-family housing construction sector is where the majority of value-added forest products are utilized, and this housing sector has ample room for improvement. This means there is plenty of growth potential in the future.; Brambles Hits Its 2020 Goal of 100% Certified Sustainable Timber Sources: These forests have to be certified by either the FSC or the PEFC. These two non-profit organizations only certify forestry operations that follow international best practice in terms of planting new trees to replace those harvested. more...
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Pallet User Survey Identifies CHEP Customer Satisfaction Falling - Sep 25, 2020
A major driver in this development is the attempt by CHEP over the last few years to raise prices and boost margins as lumber and other costs increase.; UK Government and TIMCON Release EU Exit Statement: Many have wondered how the UK and EU government will regulate wood packaging material, which previously had been exempt from ISPM-15 requirements. more...
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Imports Continue to Stress Trucking Capacity, Especially in the West - Sep 18, 2020
During the early days of he pandemic, FreightWaves reported that many ocean shipping companies reduced capacity. But this trend has swung the other way, as these companies are bringing more capacity online as prices rise.; Hurricane Laura Caused Huge Forestry Losses, Exceeds $1.1 Billion: Laura was more of a wind event, while Katrina and Rita brought flooding along coastal Louisiana. Infrastructure damaged by wind was the big factor this year, and crops were not as affected this year as in 2005.
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Hardwood Promotion Coalition Releases Research, Outlines Marketing Strategy - Sep 11, 2020
The first phase of its campaign was to conduct research on customer purchase trends for American flooring consumers. The results have formed the basis for a new brand identity for the American hardwood industry.; UK Government and TIMCON Release EU Exit Statement: Many have wondered how the UK and EU government will regulate wood packaging material, which previously had been exempt from ISPM-15 requirements.; iGPS Logistics Receives Recognition from Industry Trade Magazines: iGPS pallets are 35% lighter than wood block alternatives, considerably less fuel is used and fewer emissions are produced during their transport, leading to the company’s environmental sustainability successes.
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Getting Back to Whatever the DC Normal Is - Sep 4, 2020
Congress is coming back to town and the clock will be ticking on lawmakers to come together on a plan to fund the government past September 30 when the fiscal year comes to an end.; Summer 2020 White Paper: This special report covering the rising costs of softwood grade lumber is designed for subscribers to freely share within subscribing companies and to any third party.; Tips for Proper COVID-19 Safety Controls: Four major areas of concern are hazard elimination, engineering controls, administrative controls and personal protective equipment.; Workers at Risk in Summer Heat: Working in a hot environment can cause heat rash and heat cramps — and more serious illnesses, like heat exhaustion and heatstroke, which is considered a medical emergency.
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Housing and DIY Surge Coupled with Tight Supply and COVID-19 Craziness Lead to Historic Softwood Market - Aug 28, 2020
Pallet industry contacts have reported rising low-grade softwood prices across the country due to supply constraints. Don’t be surprised if your pallet prices have gone up some or are going up if you use softwood lumber. more...
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WTO Sides with Canada in Latest Softwood Dispute Decision - Aug 27, 2020
Most agreed it is likely to change anything. This dispute is more than likely going to be resolved by a political solution not a legal resolution. One Canadian lumber buyer commented that the WTO decision won’t affect anything. It’s like writing a worthless check.; Summer 2020 White Paper Available: After a historic softwood lumber market over the past several months, this special report is designed for subscribers to freely share within subscribing companies and to any third party.; Special Equipment Inventory Listing: Sawmill, pallet and more! LPS Equipment & Acquisition Co. more...
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Brambles Releases End Year Results, Provides Commentary on COVID-19 Impact - Aug 21, 2020
Underlying profit grew 4% including a 1% profit increase in CHEP USA margins. It is not clear how much of that is related to advances in automation in its service centers compared to lower asset recovery fee payouts to recyclers.; NEWS IN BRIEF: A massive fire at Perez Pallets near Modesto, California, required firefighters from several departments to extinguish the blaze. Johns Manville has announced the release of an innovative, new shipping pallet technology called the E3 Pallet™ more...
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Brambles Results Offer Perspective on COVID-19 Impact - Aug 21, 2020
Globally, sales revenue increased 6.1%. Strong growth in the global pallet businesses more than offset COVID-19 related declines in the automotive and Kegstar businesses. Underlying profit grew 4% including a 1% profit increase in CHEP USA margins.; Fire Safety Is Everyone’s Problem: The industry has been working to improve fire safety thanks to the leadership of the NWPCA and a number of major pallet companies. Pallet industry leaders realized this is a problem that could be solved for us via tougher fire codes or industry efforts to develop best practices.; Workers at Risk in Summer Heat: Summer is winding down, but the heat will stay with us for a little longer. Learn these simple rules to identify and prevent heat related illness.
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COVID-19 Effect on Major Ports, Update on Shipping Trends - Aug 14, 2020
COVID-19 is hitting East Coast ports harder than West Coast ports. Ocean transit impacts inland transportation networks because a surge for West Coast ports leads to higher traffic for rail and less demand for trucking.; New Heat Treatment Cuts Energy Consumption, Improves Efficiency: A major advantage of the EZ-Flo design is the unit produces treated pallets with a low surface moisture condition, which can help reduce the likelihood of mold growth more common on heat treated pallets after conventional treatment. more...
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Be Ready for OSHA Visit - Aug 6, 2020
When an OSHA inspector arrives, ask about the purpose and reason for the visit. If there was an employee complaint that prompted the inspection, you have the right to review a copy of it. Find out what documents they want to review and what areas they plan to inspect.; NEWS IN BRIEF: Maine loggers worried about the industry’s ability to weather the pandemic have welcomed a federal relief bill introduced recently.
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ISPM-15 Compliance Raises Brexit Concerns for European Pallets Movements - Jul 31, 2020
If the European Union decides to enforce ISPM-15 certification requirements on shipments from the United Kingdom when the official break from the trade block happens in January 2021, there may not be enough ISPM-15 certified pallets to go around.; NEWS IN BRIEF: The Paul Bunyan Show is the latest trade event to be canceled because of the COVID-19 pandemic. OSHA has updated its Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) regarding workplace safety and addressing topics related to COVID-19.
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Relief Sought for Hardwood Sector - Jul 24, 2020
A letter to the House leadership from nine Congress members included a plea from Dana Cole, executive director of the Hardwood Federation. The hardwood industry has been severely affected by the double-impact of the U.S.-China trade dispute as well as the pandemic, she said.; Pallet Profile Launches New Reporting Categories: Last week the Pallet Profile has started our new pricing page structure. It now lists softwood prices by region for #3 and #4 SYP and SPF in 2x4 and 2x6 dimensions.; Forest Products Sector Concerned about H-2B Guest Worker Suspension: This limitation to augment domestic labor supply will have negative impacts on forest health and the overall forest economy according to the FRA.; NEWS IN BRIEF: If you’ve been closed because of the pandemic you and your employees may have questions about returning to work. A fire that started at a pallet company in Modesto, California, spread to vehicles at a bakery next door. The USDA-APHIS extended the comment period on the proposed implementation of revised Lacey Act provisions. President Trump signed legislation to extend the deadline for small businesses to apply for the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP). The American Trucking Associations issued its report on how the trucking industry fared in 2019.
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