Cardboard Current Market Trends

OCC prices have been on a steady decline, dropping for six consecutive months. In December, the average price hit $66 per ton—the lowest all year and nearly 17% lower than the same time in 2023. Mixed paper prices have also fallen, with December’s average of $37 per ton reflecting a 16% drop from November and a slight year-over-year decrease.

Both grades saw their peak prices in mid-2024, but a combination of lagging demand and increased material generation during the holiday season has pushed prices downward. For OCC and mixed paper, this is a clear indication of softened demand in the packaging sector.

Several global factors are influencing these trends. For one, demand for corrugated packaging has been relatively flat over the past three decades. This is partly due to the offshoring of goods production to countries like China and India, which has shifted demand patterns. Additionally, global economic challenges, such as inflation and slower growth, are putting further pressure on recycling markets.

On the export side, competition with cheaper, virgin pulp and paper—especially from markets like Russia—has reduced demand for recycled materials. The U.S. still exports significant volumes of containerboard, but global economic softness is affecting these markets as well.

For small businesses, this decline in pricing could impact the value of recycled cardboard materials. If you’re selling recycled OCC or mixed paper, you may see reduced returns in the near term. On the other hand, lower demand might mean more opportunities to secure cost-effective recycled materials for packaging needs.  As a small business owner, staying informed about these trends can help you adapt and make strategic decisions about how to handle your cardboard waste.

The cardboard recycling market is facing challenges, but this is part of a larger, cyclical pattern in the industry. By keeping an eye on market conditions and adjusting your recycling practices accordingly, your small business can continue to benefit from sustainable waste management while navigating these shifts in the recycling landscape.  So call Greene Recycling and schedule your cardboard bale pickup route today!