Packaging

According to the report, total Containerboard production in 2025 decreased 4% compared to 2024. Operating rates stayed flat over the same time period, ending the year above 91%.

Total Boxboard production in Q4 decreased 2% compared to Q4 2024. It was down 1% when compared to the same 12 months of 2024. The boxboard operating rate was 85.6%, down 2.3 points from the same quarter last year.

Total packaging papers & specialty packaging shipments in December increased 2% compared to December 2024. They were up 1% when compared to the same 12 months of 2024.

Total packaging papers & specialty packaging shipments in November decreased 10% compared to October, though they were up 1% from November 2024.

Total packaging papers and specialty packaging shipments in October increased 9% compared to October 2024. They were up 1% when compared to the same 10 months of 2024. 

If you’re wondering if paper coffee cups can be recycled, the answer is yes! Paper mills across North American can recycle them.

Total Boxboard production in Q3 decreased 2% compared to Q3 2024. The boxboard operating rate was 88.7%, down 1.7 points from the same quarter last year.

Total Containerboard production in Q3 decreased 3.1% compared to Q3 2024. It was down 3% when compared to the same 9 months of 2024.

Yes, pizza boxes are recyclable. A study found that typical amounts of grease and cheese on pizza boxes are not a problem for paper mills. 

The Voluntary Standard is an industry-supported set of test protocols to evaluate the repulpability and recyclability of coated or treated corrugated board and its equivalents (OCC-e).

Total packaging papers & specialty packaging shipments in August increased 5% compared to August 2024. They were down 1% when compared to the same 8 months of 2024.

Good news! You don't need to remove tape from a cardboard box. Tape and shipping labels do not interfere with the recycling process.