Bill's Corner- An Eastern Spruce Perspective

There were high expectations that activity and orders would increase in the eastern spruce lumber market yesterday. Prior indications pointed that it could be. It was disappointing that this did not materialize. It was still a decent day overall but less than traders were hoping for. There were a fair number of orders transacted for quick deliveries from the reloads, confirming that dealers are busy but also showing that they are keeping a tight rein on inventories, buying what is specifically needed and little else. Prices continued to drift sideways. Mill order files and shipments remained a good two weeks on many items.