Southern Forest Products Association Reports Another Record Year of SYP Lumber Shipments

According to a press release issued on Monday (4-17-23) by the Southern Forest Products Association (SFPA), shipments of Southern Pine lumber recorded a year-over-year increase in 2022, marking thirteen consecutive years of growth. The SFPA tabulates shipment totals with the Southern Pine Inspection Bureau (SPIB) and Timber Products Inspection (TP).

The SFPA is reporting that shipments in 2022 totaled 22.16 billion board feet (Bbf), an increase of 5.5% over the volume shipped in 2021 (20.93 Bbf). The SFPA notes that 2022 also marked the third straight year of shipments above 20 Bbf, starting with 20.8 Bbf in 2020. It also points out that shipments have increased every year since 2009, when shipments totaled 11.79 Bbf (down from 14.57 Bbf in 2008).

In a statement accompanying the report, SFPA Executive Director Eric Gee said:

“The SFPA, in conjunction with our members, especially our lumber manufacturing members, and the SPIB and TP, couldn’t be more excited to see this record growth. If there’s any question about the demand for Southern Pine, the 2022 shipment report confirms its popularity among design and construction professionals. It also supports the message that, as a naturally renewable resource, wood is the most environmentally friendly, easily accessible, and among the most trusted materials available for building homes or businesses.”