U.S. softwood and panel markets - Week 43

Little change in the market and the overall economic climate left framing lumber traders frustrated. Traders' bearish moods were reinforced by more bad economic news, some of which hit closer to home as two national chains announced shutdowns of more than 100 contractor yards. Producers were increasingly anxious to find orders, as last week's flurry in some species was insufficient to carry mills through this week. Prices skidded in various species and producing regions with only a few exceptions.

Structural panel sales were a grind, and prices moved lower. Sales of OSB were subdued, and most mills finished the week with loads available to ship the week of November 3 or sooner. Purchasing was limited to must-have items. Southern Pine plywood producers groped for trading levels on sheathing. Willing buyers were scarce. Mills lowered quotes moderately and opened to counters. A few western Fir plywood mills reduced prices to extend order files into November after sales lagged production early in the week.