LEESBURG, VA -- The Composite Panel Association reported that shipments of North American composite panel producers were up 13% compared to the same month a year ago, based on its monthly Market Barometer.

Particleboard shipments were up 12% to 292 MMSF (3/4” basis) from the same month a year ago, MDF (3/4” basis) was up 14% to 169 MMSF, and hardboard was up 13% to 249 MMSF (1/8” basis).

Overall panel shipments were 503 MMSF (3/4” basis) compared to 446 MMSF in May 2009.

The Market Barometer aggregates both the shipments and inventories of particleboard, MDF, hardboard and other compatible products as a percentage of industry capacity for the past 12 months.