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In addition to the open consultation, we are proposing several changes to current assessments. One such change is the addition of straight length pricing (8’-16’) for Eastern Spruce-Pine-Fir #1&2 2×4 and 2×6 delivered Toronto. Currently, Random Lengths reports straight lengths only for #1&2 2×3 delivered Toronto.
The open consultation, for which we will take industry feedback through May 30, seeks to ensure that our methodologies continue to reflect the physical market, in compliance with the International Organization of Securities Commission (IOSCO) principles for price reporting agencies. This includes all elements of our pricing process, our price specifications, and publication frequency.
You can find the current methodology for Random Lengths and Random Lengths International here: https://www.fastmarkets.com/methodology/forest-products.
As part of the open consultation, we are also asking the industry specifically about several other changes. Initial industry feedback suggests a change that would move Alabama production to the eastside zone in Southern Yellow Pine 1-inch boards, as trading more closely follows that zone than the westside.
We are also asking the industry if Random Lengths should cease publishing Western Plywood CC 3/8-inch, 1/2-inch 4/5-ply, 5/8-inch 4/5-ply, and 3/4-inch 4/5-ply assessments. Choppy, sporadic trading and a dearth of consistent input makes these four items candidates for removal from the price guide.
Random Lengths is also considering various ways to report Southern Yellow Pine #2 Prime 2×4, 2×6, and 2×8 markets. Options include standalone assessments or an adder, assessed weekly, to the reported prices of corresponding #2 items. Input on the options noted above or additional suggestions are welcomed.
Lastly, Random Lengths International is proposing scaling back coverage of a number of markets, including Southern Pine export prime 10/4 and 12/4, OSB 4×8 9.5mm non JAS, 4×8 9.0mm JAS, 3×6 9.0mm JAS, 3×6 12.0mm JAS, 3×8 9.00mm JAS, Hirakaku 105x150mm&wdr and 120x150mm&wdr. These items have become exceedingly difficult to report amid a lack of consistent input. Initial industry feedback suggests the assessments carry little weight in the market.
For feedback on the above or any other issue, please send responses in writing, preferably in electronic format, to the following address: joe.pruski@fastmarkets.com. Please add the respective subject heading Random Lengths, 2025. The deadline for submitting comments is May 30. Also, please specify whether your response is confidential. Input offered in confidence may be referenced but will not be attributed in any way.
Random Lengths will publish the outcome of the methodology review by June 11, including a summary of the feedback, with the exception of those marked as confidential. Any proposals to make material changes, discontinue, or launch prices will involve a separate market consultation, the length of which will depend on how substantial the changes may be.
Any changes to the Random Lengths Lumber, Panel, Midweek, and International price guide will take effect at a later date.
For other Fastmarkets Random Lengths pricing notices please see:
For more information on Random Lengths assessment methodology, please see:
http://www.fastmarkets.com/methodology/forest-products