Plastics Machinery Shipments Rebound in Q3 2024

The total shipment value of primary plastics machinery in North America reached an estimated $319.0 million in Q3 2024, marking a 41.9% rise compared to the previous quarter.

However, a report by the Plastics Industry Association’s Committee on Equipment Statistics (CES) revealed that shipments for injection molding and extrusion experienced an 8.8% decline year-over-year (Y/Y) from Q3 2023.

Strong Growth in Twin-Screw Extrusion Shipments

A twin-screw extrusion category led the primary plastics machinery sector, with shipments surging by an impressive 149.7% quarter-over-quarter (Q/Q) and growing 43.1% Y/Y. Meanwhile, single-screw extrusion shipments posted a 31.9% quarterly gain but fell 27.8% Y/Y. Similarly, injection molding shipments saw a 34.3% Q/Q increase but an 11.1% drop Y/Y.

Positive Outlook for Plastics Industry

“The rebound in primary plastics equipment shipments in the third quarter confirms our Q2 statement that growth prospects remain, aligning with the optimistic outlook for the broader plastics industry—not just equipment,” said Perc Pineda, the association’s chief economist. “With baseline demand for plastic products holding steady, demand for plastics equipment is likely to grow over time.”

U.S. Exports Show Mixed Results

U.S. plastics equipment exports grew by 2.1% in Q3 2024 to reach $348.0 million compared to the previous quarter but saw a 19.9% Y/Y decline. Mexico and Canada accounted for 45.0% of U.S. plastics machinery exports, contributing a combined $156.4 million.

Pineda noted, “U.S. manufacturing has faced an interest rate-driven slump. The Fed’s recent rate cuts—50 basis points in September, followed by 25 basis points in November, and likely another 25 basis points in December—are expected to bring the Fed funds rate to a target range of 4.25%–4.50%. This should gradually help the manufacturing sector recover from the downturn.”

Industry Sentiment Improves

According to CES’s latest quarterly survey, 70.0% of respondents anticipate better market conditions over the next year. The percentage of respondents noting increased quoting activity rose to 42.0%, up from 40.0% in the previous quarter.