Article Directory
Action Steps to Reduce Your Insurance Risk Profile - Mar 28, 2025 
The number of carriers offering coverage continues to dwindle as insurance companies look for more attractive sectors. Read about these best practices that insurance providers suggest for pallet companies to follow.; Marketing Gems – Promotion Starts with Thinking Like Your Customer: More than focus on what you have to sell, you want your content to cover key pain points and issues felt by pallet users. Everyone wants to attract more business, and in these competitive markets, it starts with thinking like your customer.; U.S. Lumber Coalition Calls Out Canadian Government Subsidies: In March, the Canadian government announced over $11.3 million in funding. The reality is that many countries, including the United States, subsidize some business activity through grants, loans, tax breaks and other funding mechanisms. more...
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House Starts Increase Despite Market Concerns - Mar 21, 2025 
Single-family housing starts were up 11.4%, multi-family starts increased 10.7% over the January results. The number of single-family homes under construction in February was down 6.7% from a year ago, at 640,000 homes.; PalletTrader Announces Strategic Alliance with Pallet Control Tower for Transatlantic Pallet Trading Network: Under this collaboration, the two platforms intend to offer a new service which will enable U.S. shippers to obtain and reuse European-standard pallets, initially used to transport goods into the U.S. from Europe and to ship U.S. exports back to Europe.; NWPCA Members Lobby Congress and White House, Association Warns about Increased Labor Enforcement: This is a great time to ensure compliance with work authorization and I-9 paperwork. If you haven’t checked your process in a while, you may want to conduct an internal audit to identify any concerns.; Virginia Tech Offers Crate Design Short Course: This 2.5 day course will take place April 15-17th in Blacksburg, Virginia and will introduce the different crate styles and characteristics commonly used in the United States.; Prayer Gathering to Be Held Around National Pallet Meeting: While the NWPCA doesn’t officially sponsor or promote the meeting, the association has set aside a meeting space on Friday, March 28th from 6:30 to 7:30 a.m.; Former Timber Executive Named as Forest Service Chief: The Trump administration has tapped Tom Schultz who does have years of experience in forestry public policy and land management roles. This selection is not without controversy. more...
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E.U. Proposes Tariffs on U.S. Wood Products and Other Goods - Mar 14, 2025 
Pallets and wood boxes are currently not on the list of products that may be hit with a tariff. European officials are calling for further talks and negotiations. The Hardwood Federation, the lobbying group for the U.S. hardwood sector, issued a call for action.; State of the Pallet Industry: Using Tech to Connect with Customers Is Key In a Challenging Sales Environment: Waiting for the phone to ring is not a sales strategy. Companies that thrive in the future will do more than just seek profit at all cost. Have you stopped to assess how you may be stuck? What is one new product or approach that could open up a whole new way of doing business? more...
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Trump Administration Announces Steel and Other Tariffs - Mar 14, 2025 
Some details are still unclear, but the tariffs certainly cover steel and nails. The guidelines exempt items processed from U.S.-origin steel or aluminum. President Trump is closing loopholes and extending the tariffs to cover all countries including those previously excluded. This stricter enforcement means that loopholes used to get around tariffs last time will not be available to producers or importers.; Brambles Reports Volume Growth, Sales from New Business Wins: The company’s first half profits rose thanks to sales volume growth, new business wins and improved asset efficiency. Some costs went up for the company (labor, repair, pallet storage and transport) while others went down (lumber and fuel). Driven by enhanced data analytics, the company is improving asset control.; Recycle Bits: Police in the Greenville, South Carolina area recently arrested a man for allegedly selling stolen CHEP pallets. Employees at Modesto pallet company are seeking nearly $629,000 from the owner in unpaid wages. more...
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Publisher’s Soap Box: Trump Administration Issues Executive Orders on Imported Timber and Land Management - Mar 7, 2025 
The Department of Commerce will issue a report with recommendations from its investigation. Some possibilities include: tariffs, export controls, incentives to increase domestic production, and policy ideas for strategic investments and permitting reforms. Growing America's forest products sector would be great. It just may take too much time to get the machine moving to make much difference in the short-term.; DOC Announces Antidumping Rate for Latest Review Period: The U.S. Department of Commerce (DOC) just announced its preliminary decision on softwood lumber from Canada. The DOC conducts a yearly review to assess market changes to duty rates in trade cases.; Auctions: March 27, 9am CST. Virtual/Online. Accepting consignments; March 29, Formerly 7-11 Shelby Lumber. 9am CST. Center, TX. All equipment like new. more...
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Trump Administration Announces Steel Tariffs, Affects Nails, Steel and Possibly More - Feb 28, 2025 
This expansion of Trump’s previous 2018 tariffs will likely push the cost of pallet nails up and could affect other products used by the pallet industry. President Trump has said that the word tariff is a beautiful thing.; Brambles Reports Volume Growth, Sales from New Business Wins: The company’s first half profits rose thanks to sales volume growth, new business wins and improved asset efficiency. Some costs went up for the company (labor, repair, pallet storage and transport) while others went down (lumber and fuel).; B&B Lumber Company Experiences Fire at Storage Facility: Despite the loss, the company minimized operational downtime, resuming full production just one day later and was also thankful to report that no injuries occurred as a result of the fire.; Auction: Online. March 13th, 10:00am CST, Thursday. Pinnacle Pallets, Pallet and Crate Mfr. more...
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State of the Pallet Industry: Next Generation Pallet Plants – Part II - Feb 21, 2025 
With pallet recyclers looking to produce more A’s and top quality pallets, there is a renewed focus on getting the most out of recycled boards. This means even more competition in the market for new pallet producers as recyclers try to pump out combo pallets.; UFP Announces 2024 Results, Sales Decreases: UFP Industries, which owns PalletOne, recently reported a 4% net sales decline for 2024 due partially to lower sales prices connected with slumping lumber prices. The past year hasn’t been easy given the depressed housing and forest products sector.; U.S. Lumber Coalition Touts Success of Trade Cases to White House: The Coalition sent a letter to President Trump urging the strong enforcement of the trade laws and suggested that the cases could end if the Canadian government eliminates subsidizing the Canadian lumber industry.; Biomass Power System Provider to Hold Open House: Air Burners is holding a BioCharger® demonstration event in Stuart, Florida from March 4-7. This event will unveil groundbreaking technology for processing wood and vegetative waste.; Auction: Online only, Premium Cut Lumber. Notched #1 Grade Pallet Stringers. 12 truckloads anticipated. March 3rd, 2025. 9am EST. Mio, Michigan. more...
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Higher Softwood Lumber Duty Rates Loom, Will Momentum Gain for a New SLA? - Feb 14, 2025 
Analysis from the Department of Commerce of anti-dumping duties on Canadian softwood lumber imports is likely to lead to significant combined duty increases based on feedback from both Canadian and U.S. lumber experts.; Arizona Congressman Introduces Bill to Abolish OSHA: The bill isn’t likely to move ahead or even get out of committee. It currently has no co-sponsors but it does raise the question, “Would industry be better off without OSHA?”; Pallet Company Owner Passes Away: Dennis F. Price was a previous owner/operator of General Pallet. NEWS IN BRIEF: Canfor Southern Pine has opened in Axis, Alabama. The Federal Reserve Chair told a Senate Committee that the central bank does “not need to be in a hurry” to cut interest rates. West Fraser Timber Co. recently reported fourth quarter 2024 results with a loss of US$62 million. J.P. Morgan Research has concluded that the U.S. housing market is likely to “remain largely frozen through 2025.” The NWPCA has received a historic $1,000,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture. more...
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State of the Pallet Industry – Next Generation Pallet Plants for Recyclers - Feb 14, 2025 
Looking at warehouse automation, it is clear that automation of supply chains and warehouses is driving the need for higher quality pallets. At the same time, supply chain technology and deployment in Europe is years ahead of the United States. As a result, pallet providers are seeing reducing demand for B-grade pallets compared to high quality A’s and Premiums.; Higher Softwood Lumber Duty Rates Loom: Duties on Canadian softwood lumber imports are going up this year. Later this month, the Department of Commerce is expected to release its analysis of the preliminary anti-dumping duties on Canadian softwood lumber imports. This is likely to lead to significant combined duty increases based on feedback from both Canadian and U.S. lumber experts.; Google Invests in Biochar Offsets: Biochar is simply wood waste biomass that has been pyrolyzed (heated without oxygen) until it becomes a charcoal-like substance. Biochar involves using kilns to burn the waste and a way to crush and bag/transport the resulting product for farmers.; Recycle Bits: Promat 2025 will be held in Chicago on March 17-20. Enviva recently informed employees that it will close its biomass plant in Amory, Mississippi. more...
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State of the Pallet Industry: Next Generation Pallet Plants – Part I - Feb 7, 2025 
It is clear that automation of supply chains and warehouses is driving the need for higher quality pallets. Supply chain technology and deployment in Europe is years ahead of the United States. As a result, pallet providers are seeing reducing demand for B-grade pallets compared to high quality A’s and Premiums, and users are looking at combo pallets to replace new.; Google Invests in Biochar Offsets: Biochar is simply wood waste biomass that has been pyrolyzed (heated without oxygen) until it becomes a charcoal-like substance. Supporters of biochar point out that it improves soil health and sequesters carbon.; NEWS IN BRIEF: The Department of Labor recently announced higher civil penalties for OSHA infractions. Promat 2025, will be held in Chicago on March 17-20. Enviva recently informed employees that it will close its biomass plant in Amory, Mississippi. Southeastern Timber Products is expanding its operations in Ackerman, Mississippi.; GLOBAL WEBCAST AUCTION: COMPLETE CONTENTS OF A SAWMILL & PLANER MILL WITH LATE MODEL MOBILE EQUIPMENT AND 87 ACRE REAL ESTATE. Tuesday, February 25th, 2025 @ 9am PT INSPECTION: By Appointment Only. PREVIEW LOCATION: 330 S Bay Road, Toledo, OR 97391 more...
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WSJ Attacks Proposed Border Tariffs, U.S. Lumber Sector Responds - Jan 31, 2025 
The US Lumber Coalition countered the narrative. The newspaper also talked about the inflationary cost of rising lumber or new home construction. But the Coalition countered. Regardless of where you stand on the softwood lumber dispute, the WSJ did call for one thing that certainly makes sense...open up more federal land for logging.; Brambles Ranks No. 4 in List of Most Sustainable Companies: The company performed strongly across all assessable categories, achieving 100% in the areas of sustainable revenue and sustainable investment while also improving its greenhouse gas and waste productivity scores.; Inbound Container Volumes Increase 14.2% in December: The December growth marks fifteen straight months of increases in inbound volume with the majority showing double-digit percent gains. more...
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Housing Data Suggests Positive and Negative Trends - Jan 24, 2025 
It looks like construction activity will continue at a steady pace for at least the start of this year. But trends suggests that activity could slow significantly toward the end of the year if sales of new homes doesn’t pick up and inventory swells.; House Leadership Highlights “Fix Our Forests Act”: This bipartisan bill is intended to streamline the environmental permitting process for forest management projects. The legislation will also fund post-fire ecosystem recovery efforts and provide accessible fire-related data and models to aid communities. more...
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Emerging Tech With Pallets and Materials Handling Requires Strategic Commitment - Jan 20, 2025 
High labor rates are leading to automation everywhere. This trend is also having an impact on warehouses and materials handling. More automation is likely to mean that pallet quality and maintaining tolerances and standards become a bigger deal in the present and especially the future.; Container Volume Activity Remains Strong to End the Year: The November growth marks fourteen straight months of increases in inbound volume. Outbound volume has turned positive following two straight months of declines that were extending on a downward trend evident in the last several months.; Recycle Bits: The Pallet Enterprise magazine recently published its Buyers’ Guide. The Department of Labor recently announced higher civil penalties for OSHA infractions in 2025. Brambles Ltd. has finalized the sale of its CHEP India business to LEAP India Private Limited. more...
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Legislative and Federal Government Roundup for January 2025 - Jan 17, 2025 
Lawmakers passed a stop-gap spending bill to avoid a government shutdown. The deal also includes a one-year extension of the Farm Bill. This legislation funds hardwood export programs, the Forest Service and other key programs for the overall forest products sector.; Long-term Industry Supplier and Friend Passes Away: Bronco Pallet Systems' (BPS) Morris Lee Self known by many as a friendly and dedicated supplier to the pallet sector passed away at his home in Ashland City, Tennessee surrounded by his family.; NEWS IN BRIEF: The Pallet Enterprise magazine recently published its Buyers’ Guide. Brambles Ltd. has finalized the sale of its CHEP India business. more...
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UFP Industries Acquires C&L Wood Products, Expands Capacity in Northern Alabama and Central Tennessee - Jan 10, 2025 
C&L has a scragg mill and can process a wide variety of lumber material from hardwood to softwood. The company also has access to significant timber supply in the region. Many of the UFP plants in the region focus more on reman and crating operations. C&L provides the company greater options when it comes to automated nailing and lumber processing.; Container Volume Activity Remains Strong to End the Year: For the eleven month year to date period, inbound loads are up to 15.2% or more than three times the 4.7% growth in outbound loads over that same period. The report noted the coastal switch that took place due to the uncertainty of the East/Gulf Coast labor situation and potential dock worker strikes. more...
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Port Strike Looms – What Impact Could It Have on Pallet Demand? - Jan 3, 2025 
It appears a strike is likely because the debate over automation is a major concern for both sides. The ILA doesn’t want to lose jobs to automated scanning, loading and handling equipment. The USMX recognizes the need to use automation to reduce costs and keep up with ports in Asia and Europe that already use these technologies.; NEWS IN BRIEF: USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack recently unveiled a new program to support American wood processing facilities.; Regional Lumber Price Trends: Quarterly graphs illustrate average lumber prices published within each region over the past year. more...
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Emerging Tech With Pallets and Materials Handling - Dec 20, 2024 
More automation is likely to mean that pallet quality and maintaining tolerances and standards become a bigger deal in the present and especially the future.; No Profile Next Week! After the New Year, the Profile will resume its regular schedule and will be published again on January 3, 2025. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all of our readers! Trucking and Freight Trends for the End of 2024: The trucking sector is slowly improving after a significant freight recession. That appears to be the assessment from leading trucking and transportation reports and data sources as we approach the end of the year.; Trumponomics Special Report: We examine the economic and political impact of a second Trump administration on the overall forest products sector and specifically the pallet market. more...
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Trump Tariffs – The Good, the Bad, and the Unknown: Full Report - Dec 18, 2024 
While many people in the pallet and lumber industries likely voted for Trump in the presidential election, there are a few areas of Trump’s economic agenda that could be problematic. Most notably are potential tariffs on goods going to trade partners that may seek retribution by putting duties on U.S. logs and lumber, especially hardwood lumber or logs heading to China. more...
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Trump Tariffs – The Good, the Bad, and the Unknown: Executive Summary - Dec 18, 2024 
While many people in the pallet and lumber industries likely voted for Trump in the presidential election, there are a few areas of Trump’s economic agenda that could be problematic. Most notably are potential tariffs on goods going to trade partners that may seek retribution by putting duties on U.S. logs and lumber, especially hardwood lumber or logs heading to China. more...
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PalletTrader’s Third Quarter Report Shows Improving Optimism and Demand - Dec 13, 2024 
This latest report breaks down key questions based on responses from suppliers and buyers. With the exception of some seasonal upticks, most participants believe pricing is expected to remain flat. One good piece of information is that after a glut of pallets caused by retailer destocking, respondents indicated that demand is increasing.; Southern Pine Exports Are Up Compared to 2023: By contrast, softwood imports are down 6.3% over September 2023 but up slightly 1.2% over August. Southern Pine exports between January and September 2024 are running 9% ahead of the same period in 2023.; Trumponomics Special Report: The basis for this special report is a series of articles covering the economic and political impact of a second Trump administration on the overall forest products sector and the pallet market. The report will go live in the next week. more...
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PalletTrader’s Third Quarter Report Shows Improving Optimism, Demand - Dec 13, 2024 
This latest report breaks down key questions based on responses from suppliers and buyers. With the exception of some seasonal upticks, most participants believe pricing is expected to remain flat. One good piece of information is that after a glut of pallets caused by retailer destocking, respondents indicated that demand is increasing.; Are Wood Pallets Good for the Environment? A recent report found a number of key advantages including the widespread recycling network in developed markets, the biodegradable and renewal nature of wood, the cost effectiveness of wood pallets, the ability to easily customize.; WPA Annual Meeting Includes Impressive Slate of Speakers, Fun and Networking Opportunities: Its upcoming event on January 25-27, 2025 in Rancho Mirage, California. The keynote speaker will be Merril Hoge, a former NFL player, ESPN analyst and cancer survivor.; Trumponomics Special Report: The basis for this special report is a series of articles covering the economic and political impact of a second Trump administration on the overall forest products sector and the pallet market. The report will go live in the next week.; Recycle Bits: CHEP USA is set to open a new 65,000-square-foot pallet inspection and repair facility in Temple, Texas.; Holiday Schedule: The offices of Industrial Reporting, which publishes the Recycle Record, will be closed from December 24, 2024 through January 1, 2025 for the Christmas holiday. more...
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Part V: Trumponomics – USDA Secretary and Congressional Priorities News - Dec 6, 2024 
President-Elect Trump has tapped Brooke Rollins, a lawyer who served as domestic policy chief in the first Trump administration. Her portfolio included agriculture policy. Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-South Dakota) indicated in a meeting with Senate Republicans that he intends to move first next year on a budget reconciliation package that would be focused on border security, energy and defense.; Are Wood Pallets Good for the Environment? A recent report found a number of key advantages including the widespread recycling network in developed markets, the biodegradable and renewal nature of wood, the cost effectiveness of wood pallets, the ability to easily customize.; WPA Annual Meeting Includes Impressive Slate of Speakers, Fun and Networking Opportunities: Its upcoming event on January 25-27, 2025 in Rancho Mirage, California. The keynote speaker will be Merril Hoge, a former NFL player, ESPN analyst and cancer survivor.; Report Sees Continued Growth in Output for Southern U.S. Forests, Job Declines for Sector: The report also looked at some of the major factors examined by the Southern Forest Futures Project (SFFP) more than a decade ago, which found that timber product output had declined since the 1990s.; News in Brief: The E.U. Deforestation Rule (EUDR)law implementation date will be December 30, 2025, instead of the end of the current year. This new rule would cover logs and lumber but not pallets in the latest version. The U.S. Forest Service just announced a new policy for monitoring national forests and grasslands. CHEP USA is set to open a new 65,000-square-foot pallet inspection and repair facility in Temple, Texas.; Holiday Schedule: Pallet Profile will not be published December 27, 2024. Our offices will be closed from December 24, 2024 through January 1, 2025 for the Christmas holiday. more...
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Part IV: Trumponomics – All Options Are a Go Energy Plan, More Trade Policy News - Nov 27, 2024 
News reports indicate that Trump will move quickly to enact as much of his energy agenda as he can. Tariff policy could affect current relationships with two of our neighbors. Trump has vowed to charge Mexico and Canada a 25% Tariff on ALL products coming into the United States. This would probably cover oil, lumber, imports etc.; Ligna Provides Opportunities to See Tomorrow’s Technology Today: The next event is to be held in Hannover, Germany on May 26-30, 2025. This year marks the 50th anniversary. Ligna has become a great place to find technological advances that you can’t see here in the United States. more...
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Part 3: Trump Round 2 – Housing and Tariff Policy Developments - Nov 22, 2024 
Even before he takes office, Trump’s tariff proposals are causing major corporations to change some of their plans. Pallet demand near the ports could jump significantly over the next two months as companies rush to avoid any potential Trump tariffs or restrictions. So, it isn’t really true economic growth, just early orders. But it could boost the need for warehouse storage in the interim as well as increase dwell times for palletized loads.; Hurricane Helene Caused $83 Million in Timber Damage in SC Alone: These estimates do not include damage to structures and infrastructure, such as roads and bridges. The forestland estimates also do not include urban forests and trees. In addition, the estimated $60 million cleanup of urban forest damage does not include the cost of replacing lost trees in cities and towns. more...
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Part 2: Trump Round 2 – Tax, Labor, and Immigration Policy Implications - Nov 15, 2024 
Already President-Elect Trump is naming some fairly unconventional names for some key posts, but he will likely have a lot of latitude with the Republicans having control over both the House and the Senate. A few of Trump’s nominees may not survive. Who president-elect Trump puts in charge of key departments will paint a picture.; Private Equity Firm Invests in Viking Engineering: StoneTree Investment Partners, a lower middle market industrials-focused private equity firm, has acquired an ownership stake in Viking Engineering & Development.; Lonnie Williams, Recycling Equipment Pioneer Leaves a Big Legacy: The kind of person with sawdust in his blood. That describes Lonnie M Williams, co-founder of PRS Group and pallet machinery innovator, who passed away last week.; Sawmill Production Rises Slightly According to Fed Data: This was the first rise in real output since the third quarter of 2023 according to the G.17 data. Employment in this sector rose for the first time in six quarters. more...
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Trump Round 2 – Implications for the Pallet Sector - Nov 15, 2024 
A lot will depend on who Trump appoints to head agencies and how quickly then can install lower level appointees and get their agenda moving. Who president-elect Trump puts in charge of key departments will paint a picture. The first 100 day agenda will likely focus on getting Trump’s cabinet-level appointees approved.; Recycle Record Makes Some Changes for the Better: We will be releasing the report at the end of the second week of each month. We will also be changing the listing of our categories from #1 and #2 Hardwood GMA Pallets to A’s and B’s mixed woods species GMA’s.; Lonnie Williams, Recycling Equipment Pioneer Leaves a Big Legacy: The co-founder of PRS Group and pallet machinery innovator passed away last week. Lonnie Williams was the kind of person who his business was his hobby.; CHEP Earns New Business Wins Despite Volume Drop: The new U.S. business wins reflects more aggressive efforts by CHEP and its retail partners to push product manufacturers who have been on white-wood pallets to convert to pooling. One positive driver for CHEP in the U.S. market has been small increases in white-wood pallet prices for premium used pallets.; Could Pallet Quality Be the GMA’s Kryptonite? PECO Pallets recently issued a case study highlighting how it secured a new customer due to concerns over pallet quality connected to automation in the agriculture supply chain. How is your company engaging with customers on conversations about pallet quality? Recycle Bits: The USFS has opened the application process for its wood innovation and market development grant programs. more...
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Part 1: Trump Round 2 – Implications for the Forest Products Sector - Nov 8, 2024 
Potential tariffs on goods going to trade partners that may seek retribution by putting duties on U.S. logs and lumber, especially hardwood lumber or logs heading to China, could be problematic, especially as the hardwood sector remains in the doldrums.; Website Awards Announced: This year the contest analyzed more than 200 industry websites for their customer-focused language as well as the design and functionality. The winners will be authorized to promote this recognition in their print and online communications. more...
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Automation and the Agriculture Supply Chain, Potato Packer Finds Success with PECO - Nov 1, 2024 
The company was having a problem with its existing pallets working in new automated material handling systems. This led to a loss of efficiency, delivery delays and automation disruptions, shutting the line down as many as 20 times per day to clear out broken pallets.; Wood Innovation Grants Program Applications Now Open: The application period closes December 11, 2024 and this may be the last year where considerable funds are available for industry grants.; UFP Industries Announces Quarterly Results, Notes Slowing Markets, PalletOne Slight Sales Gains: Net sales of $1.65 billion decreased 10% due to a 3% decrease in organic unit sales and a 7% decrease in selling prices. The price of SYP also decreased 21%.; NEWS IN BRIEF: Current limits on industrial boiler emissions are sufficient to comply with requirements under the Clean Air Act. Doman Building Materials Group Ltd. has added another U.S. sawmill. Jason Ortega, NWPCA vice president of public affairs was named 2025 Leading Association Lobbyist. Owners of Allegheny Wood Products have been indicted on charges of larceny. Conner Industries, Inc. has expanded its Guardian Packaging facility located in Dallas, Texas. more...
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Brambles Performance and Outlook – Part 1: Pallet Pooler Secures New Business Wins in the USA - Oct 25, 2024 
One positive driver for CHEP in the U.S. market has been small increases in white-wood pallet prices for premium used pallets. Even though CHEP is making more per pallet issued, its total pallet volume is down. Besides an overall sluggish U.S. economy, another reason for lost sales volume has been an earlier produce season that shifted pallet volumes into the previous quarter.; Warehouse Automation Discussion Needs to Involve the Pallet: The reality is that the pallet is the interface between individual products and the forklift, conveyors, racks and other handling and storage equipment. However, the pallet is the one thing that gets lost in all the technology conversations. more...
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Pallet User Survey Indicates Used Pallets Are More Popular Than New, Wood Remains Dominant Choice - Oct 24, 2024 
White-wood, GMA pallets remain the king of the hill. But alternative materials and other sizes are making inroads. Used pallets (70%) are more popular than new pallets (51%).; OSHA Reveals Preliminary Data on Top Citations: No real surprise, fall protection tops OSHA’s list of top 10 violations for the 13th consecutive year.; European Commission Proposes 12-Month Delay for Deforestation Rule: The U.S. forest products sector is seeking a two-year delay to improve clarity about rules and provide enough time to implement any processes needed to comply.; Consulting Report Predicts Recycled Pallet Market Growth to Outpace Global GDP: While we agree that recycled pallets will continue to grow in many regions of the world, there are some concerns by major retailers and product manufacturers about how pallet quality could complicate warehouse and supply chain automation issues.; Recycle Bits: Frank C. Bonamie, the founder of Ongweoweh Corp., passed away recently. The annual FEFPEB congress was held recently in Belgium. more...
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You Can’t Solve America’s Forest Health Crisis Without Loggers - Oct 18, 2024 
Proper management is the solution, and you can’t get there without loggers to help thin forests, remove debris and create products that will pay for it all. Otherwise, more forests will burn, and that doesn’t really create the kind of environment that we want. Controlled burns can only go so far.; OSHA Reveals Preliminary Data on Top Citations: Falls are among the costliest injuries that many workplaces will encounter and topped the list of top 10 violations for 13th consecutive year. more...
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Pallet Survey Indicates Marginal Growth in Non-Wood Pallets - Oct 11, 2024 
This survey is a good bellwether for key pallet usage trends. There aren’t a lot of big surprises this year. Pallet usage ebbs and flows. One thing is certain, wood remains dominant, and isn’t likely to be knocked off its top spot any time soon.; Brambles Appoints New Leadership in CHEP Europe and Its Digital Tech Department: The company just promoted Helen Lane as CEO of CHEP Europe. Formerly, she was the company’s chief data and digital officer. Before then, she was vice president of CHEP Northern Europe.; Commerce Department Revises Anti-dumping Rate Downward for West Fraser and All Others Category: The rates for companies, such as Canfor, JD Irving and Tolko Industries remains the same as when published earlier this year. more...
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European Commission Proposes 12-Month Delay for Deforestation Rule - Oct 4, 2024 
The U.S. forest products sector is seeking a two-year delay to improve clarity about rules and provide enough time to implement any processes needed to comply. The new trade rules are known as the EU Deforestation-free Rule (EUDR).; Website Award Nomination Deadline Extended! If you want us to consider your website, please e-mail your URL and a description. Submissions should be received by October 11th to be evaluated. Don’t miss out.; Quarterly Regional Lumber Trends: These Q4 graphs illustrate the average lumber prices published within each region over the past year. more...
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Kroger Institutes New Block Pallet Requirement in Select DCs - Sep 26, 2024 
When detailing pallets that meet the standard, Kroger identified CHEP as a preferred vendor and showed a picture of a white-wood block pallet saying it meets the standard as well. Kroger also mentioned that PECO & iGPS pallets are still considered compliant even though this policy letter specifically singled out CHEP.; Nominate Your Website for Industry Awards: Our team is working on evaluating candidates now. Winners are recognized in an article in both print and online as well as receive free marketing materials you can use to highlight your recognition.; Suspected Pallet Arsonist Captured in California: You don’t want your yard to seem like an easy or inviting target for an arsonist. This event highlights the need for pallet companies to remain vigilant and take steps to secure facilities.; Recycle Bits: The USDA is getting ready to offer grants to help with new technology to advance forest health. Forbes magazine ran a story looking into expectations for the 2024 holiday shopping season. Rotochopper has just opened a new Research and Development Innovation Center. more...
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Kroger Institutes New Block Pallet Requirement in Select Distribution Centerss - Sep 26, 2024 
When detailing pallets that meet the standard, Kroger identified CHEP as a preferred vendor and showed a picture of a white-wood block pallet saying it meets the standard as well. Kroger also mentioned that PECO & iGPS pallets are still considered compliant even though this policy letter specifically singled out CHEP.; Nominate Your Website for Industry Awards: Our team is working on evaluating candidates now. Winners are recognized in an article in both print and online as well as receive free marketing materials you can use to highlight your recognition. more...
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Federal Grants Offer Funding Opportunities for Sawmills and Pallet Operations - Sep 20, 2024 
There are three major programs offering grant funding: the Wood Innovation Grants, the Community Wood Energy Grants and the Wood Products Infrastructure Assistance Grants. Funds can be distributed to for-profit companies as well as government agencies, associations, etc.; Industry Sales Veteran to Retire, Leaves Legacy of National Sales Success: Keith Reinstetle will retire at the end of October as the vice president of national sales for PalletOne, Inc. He first started in the pallet business in January of 1984.; California Recyclers Continue to Fight, Talk with CHEP Over Fair Compensation: At issue is the interpretation of AB 1760, a law passed in 2022 dealing with recycler rights and obligations when it comes to handling and returning stray proprietary pallets. AB 1760 updated rules on how recyclers or junk dealers can acquire, purchase, possess or sell marked bulk merchandise pallets. more...
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Canada Further Challenges Increased U.S. Softwood Lumber Duties - Sep 13, 2024 
This is not a surprise as Canadian officials had already indicated that they would challenge the new, higher rates. Canadian officials continue to call for and hold out hope that a trade agreement on this issue can be reached between the two countries.; Fire Seasons Continue To Get Longer: Currently, the nation is facing 67 large active wildfires. Wildfires have burned 2,320,442 acres this year. About 24,518 wildland firefighters and support personnel are assigned to incidents.; NEWS IN BRIEF: Rotochopper has just opened a new Research and Development Innovation Center. PECO Pallet has leased a facility in Colonial Heights, Virginia. Oak Creek Wood Products in Wisconsin and Mexico, has attained EPAL 1 certification. Forbes magazine looks into the 2024 holiday shopping season. more...
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Suspected Pallet Arsonist Captured in California - Sep 6, 2024 
The recent pallet yard fire in Lodi, California highlights the need for pallet companies to remain vigilant and take steps to secure facilities. You don’t want your yard to seem like an easy or inviting target for an arsonist.; Forest Service Announces Grant Program for Forest Landowners: Private forest owners face challenges from a changing climate, including milder winters, extreme heat, heavy rains or increased drought, invasive species, and increased wildfire risk.; Brambles Identifies Pallet Data Opportunities: CHEP has more than a half million GPS-enabled trackers deployed in its global pallet network. Tracking technology can be used to monitor location, temperature, dwell times and delivery schedules. more...
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Could Your Town Be Next? California Town Halts Zoning for Pallet Plants - Aug 29, 2024 
Currently, pallet yards in that city are governed as general industry and are allowed in any industrial zone. But some neighbors and residents are concerned about the fire danger as well as other risks. While far from a national trend,could this be the sign of more trouble?; Pallet Profile and Recycle Record Offers Riders and Enterprise Licenses: There are two easy ways to extend our content to more people in your organization. Both help subscribers extend the benefits of our industry-leading reporting to others inside and outside of their company.; Southern Pine Exports Remain Strong But Down from Highs Earlier this Summer: Mexico remains the largest export market by volume and is up 47% over the first half of 2023. more...
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Trucking Industry Report Indicates Surging International Container Volumes – Tightening Freight Market - Aug 28, 2024 
Major boosts in international container traffic suggest that demand will be up this holiday season for trucking and domestic transportation. The last year has been marked by extra capacity leaving the market as truckers retire or look for other, more lucrative positions.; Brambles Reports Strong Cashflow Growth, Foresees Better Sales Growth Next Year: While the company saw lower prices in terms of lumber, freight and fuel, labor remains an inflationary concern. Looking at ways to alleviate high labor costs, Brambles continued its efforts to automate repair facilities.; Pallet Profile and Recycle Record Offers Riders and Enterprise Licenses: Industrial Reporting Inc. (IRI) offers a number of ways to help subscribers extend the benefits of our industry-leading reporting. There are two easy ways to extend this content to more people in your organization.; Recycle Bits: BC Wood Products of Virginia recently bought American Pallet Inc. PECO Pallet Inc. just received a bronze sustainability rating. more...
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Brambles Reports Strong Cashflow Growth, Foresees Better Sales Growth Next Year - Aug 23, 2024 
The results this year are marked by the company doing more to improve asset utilization, reducing pallet losses and optimizing pricing to actually reflect the cost to serve each client.; PECO Pallet Recognized with Bronze Sustainability Rating: The company received this rating due to its focus on active recycling programs, environmental stewardship, and responsible use practices to preserve natural resources, with a goal to reduce waste and reuse as much as possible. more...
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U.S. Review Significantly Increases Softwood Lumber Duties on Canadian Lumber - Aug 15, 2024 
The rates recently announced are larger than expected. The new combined duty rate that will apply to most Canadian softwood lumber exports is 14.54% compared to the previous rate of 8.05% from the fourth administrative reviews.; Is ISPM-15 Working? While the international regulation approach is far from perfect, overall, it has proven effective to reduce the amount of pests in SWPM. more...
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Trucking Industry Report Indicates Surging International Container Volumes, Tightening Freight Market - Aug 9, 2024 
This suggests that this year’s holiday season may require more pallets than last year’s holiday season, which wasn’t particularly impressive compared to volumes achieved during the pandemic. Overall, the truck sector looks to be coming out of its two-year recession. But that could change quickly depending on larger economic factors.; Hardwood Federation Issues Fall Update on Key Legislation: Key provisions for the hardwood industry include topics such as: Double funding for USDA’s export promotion programs, Biomass, Workforce, as well as: Second Opportunity to Affirm Biomass as Carbon Neutral, Hardwood Access Bill, Stalled Port Negotiations Threaten Supply Chains, Senate Rejects Tax Relief Bill, and Tax Incentives for Biomass. more...
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BC Wood Products Acquires American Pallet Inc., Adds Recycling Capabilities - Aug 2, 2024 
This move helps diversify the business and creates synergies in overlapping markets. The two companies share some similar accounts and had worked together in the past.; Allegheny Wood Products to Sell Off Assets: These sales are part of a court-appointed receivership to pay off a $40 million loan owed to United Bank. Assets are being sold off to pay the loan.; CSafe Launches Reusable Silverpod Pallet Shipper for Pharma Shipments: The Silverpod MAX RE is made of fully reusable components and recyclable (phase change material) refrigerants. Keeping products safe and maintained in specific conditions is critical for the efficacy of many medicines. more...
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Editor’s Soapbox: Wall Street Journal Misses the Mark on CHEP Pallet Story - Jul 30, 2024 
It missed some of the key issues involving proprietary pallets, such as exploring why CHEP loses so many pallets and the economic burden handling these pallets puts on recyclers.; Employee Dispute Leads to Shooting at Mississippi Pallet Plant: What are the lessons? Workplace violence can erupt almost anywhere, especially as people are stressed by many factors including those that don’t occur at the workplace.; Brambles Makes Leadership Change at CHEP: CHEP faces some strong financial headwinds due to the contraction of its business connected to major retail accounts as consumer spending stalls.; PalletTrader Launches Integrated Pallet Sell-Off Program: This enhancement transforms how businesses manage pallet inventories, offering unprecedented visibility and cost savings across supply chains big and small. more...
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PalletTrader Launches Integrated Pallet Sell-Off Program - Jul 26, 2024 
With the updated offering, businesses managed under PalletTrader+ can effortlessly manage direct sales and pickups of pallets to PalletTrader and primary buyers through a single, streamlined system.; The Pallet Book Launches Seeking to Transform Pallet Management in Canada: The Pallet Book looks to provide data and information to pallet customers as well as have free access to client and supplier portals, where they can place online orders. The Pallet Book is offering brokerage services for both new and used pallets.; Brambles Makes Leadership Change at CHEP: CHEP faces some strong financial headwinds due to the volume contraction of its business connected to major retail accounts as consumer spending stalls. more...
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Private Equity Firms Invest in Hinton Lumber - Jul 19, 2024 
Hinton Lumber recently became one of only a few companies in the United States that is licensed to produce official EPAL pallets. Automation and growth require investment and this partnership will help the pallet company pursue its strategy of focusing on high-volume customers with strict quality standards.; OSHA Unveils Draft Indoor/Outdoor Heat Stress Rule: The proposed new rule covers general duty employers including pallet and lumber facilities. It requires employers to develop an injury and illness prevention plan to control heat hazards in workplaces affected by excessive heat. more...
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Employee Dispute Leads to Shooting at Mississippi Pallet Plant - Jul 12, 2024 
The victim was airlifted to a Memphis hospital. Police found the alleged shooter walking on a road not far from the plant. The suspect is now in police custody.; Tie Market Demand Revised Upward Or Is It? The Railway Tie Association (RTA) increased its projected 2024 tie demand forecast based on the growing economy, but the revision may fizzle if consumer spending starts to pull back.; Third Quarter Regional Lumber Trends: These graphs illustrate the average lumber prices published within each region over the past year. more...
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Heat Stress Regulation Adopted in California, National Indoor Rule Goes to White House - Jun 28, 2024 
These regulations trigger various responses when indoor temperatures reach various levels. When indoor temperatures hit 82 degrees Fahrenheit, California employers will be required to provide workers with cool places to take breaks.; Va Tech to Offer Second Crate Design Course This Fall: The second course will be held August 27-29th, 2024 in Blacksburg, Virginia near the Virginia Tech campus. The Wooden Crate Design and Performance short course is a 2.5-day, in-person course.; Summer 2024 Publishing Break: The staff of the Pallet Profile will not publish an issue next week (July 5th). The Profile will publish its next issue on July 12th. Thanks for your understanding as our team takes some time to recharge. more...
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Industry Leader Retires - Jun 27, 2024 
Bill MacCauley is a true legend in the pallet business. His leadership on the Pallet Foundation as the auctioneer for years has helped to raise millions for the pallet sector to fund research, promotion and development. MacCauley built one of the largest, most respected pallet plants in the country. John Rock is vertically integrated with sawmills and both new pallet and recycling facilities.; PalletTrader Survey Sees Signs of Stability and Slow Improvement in the Pallet Market: This survey results follows what we reported on recently in the Profile with the freight market predicted to rebound in the third quarter by a major trucking sector technology firm. Although freight usually leads pallets, the signs are looking upward. When you reach bottom, the only way to go is up.; Heat Stress Regulation Adopted in California, National Indoor Rule Goes to White House: When indoor temperatures hit 82 degrees Fahrenheit, California employers will be required to provide workers with cool places to take breaks.; Recycle Bits: Loscam owners have approached a number of potential buyers.; iGPS Logistics has announced a partnership with IVISYS and Alliance Automation, LLC; Pallet Distributors, Inc. has announced a $5.9 million expansion. more...
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