EP 160: Freight Shock and the Sneaky Lumber Rally

Freight is exploding, mills are pulling back, and lumber prices are quietly starting to run. The lumber market flipped fast this week. Freight costs surged, Canadian mills stepped back from truck shipments, and prices began climbing across species. Ashley, Matt, Gregg, Charles, and Sig break down tightening supply, Southern Yellow Pine strength, and whether this is the start of a spring lumber run or just another head fake in the cycle. Spotify Timeline (Chapters) 00:00 – Intro & market setup 03:00 – Freight costs jump 07:00 – Pine vs spruce pricing 12:00 – Supply vs willingness to pay 18:00 – Demand drivers (R&R and housing) 26:00 – Second‑half market outlook 31:00 – Buyer strategy in this market 38:00 – Futures & trade ideas 41:00 – OSB and other materials Guest Sig Thoma [email protected]   Advertiser Fastmarkets RISI Dustin Jalbert Senior Economist Wood Products [email protected] www.fastmarkets.com Show Contacts: Gregg Riley: [email protected] Charles DeLaTorre: [email protected] Matt Beymer: [email protected] Ashley Boeckholt: [email protected]