As winter approaches, many homeowners turn their thoughts to heating. For those relying on wood stoves or fireplaces, this means stocking up on firewood. But if you’ve ever tried to buy firewood, you know the terminology can be confusing. “Face cords,” “rick,” “full cord”—it’s enough to make your head spin before you even get to the price tag.
Understanding exactly what you are paying for is crucial to avoid getting ripped off. The price of firewood varies wildly based on where you live, the type of wood you buy, and how processed it is. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about firewood pricing, measurements, and how to get the best deal for your money.
What is a “Cord” of Wood?
Before discussing price, we need to define the unit of measurement. how much is a cord of wood is the standard unit of measurement for firewood in the United States and Canada.
A full cord consists of tight stacks of wood measuring 4 feet high by 4 feet wide by 8 feet long. This equals a total volume of 128 cubic feet.
It is important to note that this volume includes the air between the logs. If you were to count just the solid wood, it usually amounts to about 85 cubic feet, but for purchasing purposes, the 128 cubic feet measurement is the industry standard.
Full Cord vs. Face Cord vs. Rick
This is where buyers often get confused. Sellers might offer a “face cord” or a “rick” of wood for a lower price, and it can look like a great deal until you realize it’s a fraction of the wood.
- Full Cord: 4′ x 4′ x 8′ (128 cubic feet).
- Face Cord (or Rick): A stack that is 4 feet high and 8 feet long, but the depth is only the length of the log (usually 16-18 inches). A face cord is generally about one-third of a full cord.
- Thrown Cord (or Loose Cord): This refers to wood dumped into a truck bed rather than stacked neatly. A loose thrown cord generally occupies about 180 cubic feet to account for the extra air and lack of stacking.
Always clarify with the seller exactly which measurement they are using before you agree on a price.
Average Cost of a Cord of Wood
So, how much should you expect to pay? On average, a full cord of seasoned hardwood costs between $300 and $500. However, prices can range from as low as $150 to over $700 depending on several variables.
Here is a general breakdown of what you might pay:
|
Wood Condition |
Estimated Price Range (Full Cord) |
|---|---|
|
Green / Unseasoned |
$150 – $250 |
|
Seasoned Hardwood |
$300 – $500 |
|
Kiln-Dried |
$500 – $800+ |
Factors That Influence Price
Why does the cost fluctuate so much? Several key factors determine the final bill.
1. Type of Wood (Hardwood vs. Softwood)
Hardwoods like oak, maple, hickory, and ash are denser and burn hotter and longer than softwoods. Because they provide more heat energy (BTUs) per log, they command a higher price.
Softwoods like pine, fir, and spruce burn quickly and can create more creosote buildup in your chimney. They are cheaper, often selling for $200-$300 per cord, but they are generally less efficient for home heating. They are excellent for outdoor fire pits or kindling, but seasoned hardwood is the gold standard for indoor heating.
2. Seasoning (Dryness)
Water content is the enemy of a good fire.
- Green Wood: Freshly cut wood holds a lot of moisture. It is hard to light, smokes heavily, and provides less heat because the fire has to boil off the water before burning the wood. Green wood is the cheapest option ($150-$250), but you need to buy it months in advance to let it dry yourself.
- Seasoned Wood: This wood has been split and left to dry for at least six months (often a year). Moisture content should be below 20%. This is the most common choice for homeowners and usually costs between $300 and $500.
- Kiln-Dried Wood: This is the premium option. The wood is baked in a kiln to remove moisture and kill any insects or mold. It burns incredibly clean and hot immediately. Expect to pay a premium, often upwards of $600 or more per cord.
3. Location and Season
Geography plays a massive role. If you live in a heavily forested rural area, wood is plentiful and likely cheaper. If you live near a major city or in an arid region where trees are scarce, expect to pay top dollar.
Seasonality matters, too. Buying wood in late winter or early spring is often cheaper than trying to buy it in October or November when demand peaks.
4. Delivery and Stacking
The base price usually covers the wood itself. Delivery is often an extra fee, usually ranging from $20 to $100 depending on the distance.
Furthermore, most delivery drivers will only dump the wood in your driveway. If you want them to stack it for you, expect to pay an additional labor fee, often around $50-$100 per cord.
How to Avoid Getting Ripped Off
The firewood market is largely unregulated in practice, meaning “handshake deals” are common. Unfortunately, this leaves room for scams. Here is how to protect your wallet.
1. Measure the Stack
The only way to know you got what you paid for is to measure it. Once the wood is delivered and stacked, get out a tape measure.
- Ideally, the wood should be stacked 4 feet high, 4 feet wide, and 8 feet long.
- If you bought a face cord, it should be 4 feet high and 8 feet long, with a depth of about 16 inches.
If the stack looks short, politely point it out to the seller. Honest sellers will typically make it right by tossing in extra logs.
2. Check the Wood Condition
If you paid for seasoned wood, check to see if it is actually dry.
- Look for cracks: Dry wood usually has cracks (checks) radiating from the center of the log ends.
- Bang two logs together: Dry wood sounds hollow and sharp (like a bowling pin strike). Wet or green wood makes a dull thud.
- Inspect the bark: Loose bark is often a sign of dry wood, whereas tight bark suggests it is still green.
3. Ask About Additional Fees
Always ask for the “out the door” price. Does the quote include delivery? Is there a fuel surcharge? Is stacking included? Clarifying these details upfront prevents awkward conversations when the delivery truck arrives.
Is It Cheaper to Buy or Chop Your Own?
The DIY approach is tempting. If you have access to land with fallen trees, cutting your own wood seems “free.” However, you must factor in the cost of equipment and effort.
To process your own firewood, you need:
- A reliable chainsaw ($200 – $600)
- Safety gear (chaps, helmet, gloves, eye protection)
- Fuel and oil
- A wood splitter (optional, but renting one costs ~$100/day, and buying one costs $1,000+)
- A truck or trailer for hauling
If you enjoy the workout and have the equipment, it can be cost-effective. But if you have to buy all the gear and value your time at an hourly rate, buying a cord of delivered wood is often surprisingly competitive.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a cord of wood last?
It depends entirely on your usage and the size of your home. If you only burn fires occasionally for ambiance, a face cord (1/3 of a full cord) might last all winter. If you heat a 2,000-square-foot home exclusively with wood, you might burn through 4 to 6 full cords in a season.
Can I fit a cord of wood in a pickup truck?
No. A standard full-size pickup truck with an 8-foot bed can hold about half a cord if the wood is thrown in loosely. If you stack it neatly, you might fit a bit more, but weight becomes an issue. A full cord of hardwood can weigh over 5,000 pounds, which exceeds the payload capacity of most standard pickup trucks (usually 1,500 – 3,000 lbs). You would need multiple trips.
What is the best wood for heating?
Dense hardwoods are best. Oak, hickory, ash, and hard maple are top choices because they burn hot and slow. Avoid softwoods like pine for indoor heating as they burn fast and produce high levels of creosote.
The Bottom Line
A cord of wood is a significant investment, typically costing between $300 and $500 for quality hardwood. While it might be tempting to hunt for the lowest price, quality matters. Paying a little extra for well-seasoned, dense hardwood will save you frustration and keep your home warmer with less smoke.
Before you hand over cash, verify the measurements, check the moisture, and clarify delivery fees. A little due diligence ensures you stay warm all winter without burning a hole in your wallet.
