A survey of nine hundred hardwood lumber manufacturers in seven southern states gathered information on mill production capabilities, marketing practices, equipment, and products. Models utilizing logistical regression were developed to assess mill characteristics and how they influence participation in export markets. Mill yearly rated production, lumber production of oak species, covered storage capacity, sales manager's education level, and public ownership all were found to have a positive influence on a mill's export participation. Sales to finished products manufacturers, production of grade three lumber, production of pallets or pallet parts, and private ownership were significant in inhibiting export participation. Expansion plans, number of species sawn, age of sales manager, and importance of sales calls to marketing effort were all found not to be significant predictors of hardwood lumber mills' export participation, or lack thereof
