Intermediaries in the U.S. hardwood lumber market: comparing and contrasting sawmills and distributors

Abstract

The objective of this study was to better understand changes in the hardwood lumber supply chain from the perspective of lumber producers and distributors and to assess the degree of judgmental convergence between suppliers and buyers of hardwood lumber. Results from two nationwide surveys conducted in 2008 and 2009 were used for the analysis. Findings confirmed a decline in demand for red oak and an increase in species diversity in the market, although a majority of sales were dominated by five species. Results also showed an increasing importance of markets for lower grades of lumber, such as pallets, containers, and railroad ties, and a decline in demand for higher-value products such as furniture and kitchen cabinets.

Keywords

hardwood lumber, sawmill, supply chain, lumber yards, distribution

Citation

Espinoza, Omar; Buehlmann, Urs; Bumgardner, Matthew; Smith, Robert. 2014. Intermediaries in the US hardwood lumber market: comparing and contrasting sawmills and distributors. BioResources. 9(4):6527-6539.