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Wood is generally sold by the cord, a measure of volume. A cord is 128 cubic feet of wood, usually stacked in a pile that measures 4 feet by 4 feet by 8 feet. However, the configuration of the pile is not important as long as it measures 128 cubic feet. It will be difficult to determine the volume of wood you receive if it is simply thrown on the ground.
As discussed previously, a pound of bone dry wood has 8600 BTU's. This varies only slightly from species to species. Therefore, if a cord of oak and a cord of pine were the same price, the oak would be a better buy because the heavier oak contains more BTU's. Remember that it takes some of your available BTU's to boil off the water in the wood, so the drier the wood the more available heat you have.
While firewood is generally sold by volume, it may also be sold by weight. Volume or weight are the only recommended ways to purchase firewood. Other units of measure, such as a "truckload" are ambiguous and open to debate. Whose truck and how big is it? If you buy by volume, measure it before accepting. If you buy by weight, ask to see a statement of the delivered weight.
Generally, the best time for buying wood is spring or early summer because this allows time for proper seasoning. The price should also be lower during these months. By buying early, you know your firewood will be properly seasoned when it's time to light your first fire in the fall.
For proper seasoning, wood should be cut, split and stacked at least six months prior to the burning season. The more cut/split surfaces the better.
To determine if wood is seasoned bang two pieces together. Seasoned wood will produce a clear ring. Green wood will give only a dull thud. Also look for cracks on the ends of split wood radiating out from the center. The cracks indicate shrinkage and moisture evaporation from the wood. Wood that has a very strong odor is definitely not seasoned.
When ordering wood be specific about what you want. Verify what you are buying, ask questions.
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Is it hard wood or soft wood? |
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Is it a full cord? |
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Is it seasoned? |
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Will they stack it? |
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Is it cut to the proper length for your fireplace or woodstove? |
Inform the salesman that you intend to inspect the delivered wood. Protect yourself, learn how to identify different species.
If possible, deal with established wood dealers. Ask friends and neighbors where they bought their wood. | 
