When the temperature drops and the fireplace becomes the heart of the home, buying firewood by the cord seems like a smart, economical choice. But if you’re not careful, purchasing firewood can quickly turn into a costly mistake. Firewood scams are more common than you’d think — from short cords to green wood passed off as seasoned — and they can leave you with less fuel and more frustration.
Whether you’re heating your home through winter or enjoying a few cozy nights by the fire, understanding how to buy firewood by the cord without getting scammed is essential. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through what a cord of firewood really is, how to evaluate quality, how to deal with sellers, and most importantly, how to protect yourself from dishonest practices.
What Is a Cord of Firewood?
Before you can ensure you’re getting a fair deal, you need to know what you’re actually buying.
A cord of firewood is a standardized measurement. It equals:
- 128 cubic feet of stacked wood
- A traditional full cord measures 4 feet high × 4 feet wide × 8 feet long
However, there are other types of cords as well, including:
- Face cord (rick): One stack of wood 4 feet high and 8 feet long, but with varying depths — typically 16 or 18 inches deep
- Half cord: Exactly what it sounds like — half of a full cord (64 cubic feet)
- Quarter cord: A quarter of a full cord (32 cubic feet)
It’s important to clarify with your seller exactly what kind of “cord” you’re buying. Some disreputable vendors will advertise face cords as full cords, charging you full price for far less wood.
Step-by-Step Guide to Buying Firewood Without Getting Scammed
1. Know the Legal Definition in Your State
Some states have regulations that define how firewood must be sold. In many U.S. states, selling firewood by terms like “truckload” or “pile” without a clear measurement is illegal.
Check with your local Department of Weights and Measures to understand:
- Whether sellers must use a specific unit (cord, fraction of a cord)
- What paperwork is required
- If there are consumer protections in place
Arming yourself with this legal knowledge is the first step to avoiding scams.
2. Measure the Cord Yourself
If the firewood is already stacked when it’s delivered, grab a measuring tape and do the math:
- Height × Width × Length = Volume
- Volume should be at least 128 cubic feet for a full cord
If the wood is dumped loosely, it’s harder to calculate. However, a loose pile measuring around 180 cubic feet may settle to about 128 cubic feet once stacked.
Tip: Stack it yourself if you’re uncertain — it’s the best way to verify volume.
3. Understand the Difference Between Seasoned and Green Wood
Scammers often sell green (unseasoned) wood as seasoned to offload inventory quickly. Burning green wood is problematic because:
- It produces more creosote (a fire hazard in chimneys)
- It burns less efficiently and produces more smoke
- It’s harder to ignite
How to Identify Seasoned Wood:
- Color: Dark, grayish ends; not freshly cut
- Cracks: End grain will often have visible radial cracks
- Sound: Seasoned wood makes a sharp clink when two pieces are knocked together
- Weight: Lighter than green wood
If possible, split a piece open — the inside of green wood will still look moist and smell like sap.
4. Be Wary of Vague Descriptions
Reputable sellers will give you clear, detailed information:
- Type of wood (oak, maple, pine, etc.)
- How it’s cut (length, split)
- How it’s seasoned (air-dried, kiln-dried)
- Delivery and stacking terms
- Exact volume being delivered
Avoid buying firewood from sellers using vague descriptions like “a truckload,” “bundle,” or “about a cord.” If they can’t or won’t specify the volume, walk away.
5. Choose the Right Type of Wood
Not all firewood burns the same. Here’s a quick breakdown of popular firewood types:
| Wood Type | Burn Quality | Heat Output | Notes |
| Oak | Excellent | High | Long-lasting |
| Maple | Very Good | Medium-High | Clean burn |
| Birch | Good | Medium | Burns quickly |
| Pine | Poor | Low | Great for kindling, but causes creosote |
| Ash | Excellent | High | Burns well even when not fully seasoned |
Knowing what type of wood you’re getting helps you calculate value and plan for usage.
6. Ask for References and Reviews
Just like any other service, firewood sellers live and die by their reputation. Check online reviews or ask neighbors who they trust. A reputable seller like Flathead Father N’ Son, for example, will have positive testimonials and a history of honest dealings. Ask questions like:
- How long have you been in business?
- Do you guarantee the quantity and quality?
- Can you provide past customer references?
Avoid sellers with little to no online presence or who dodge your questions.
7. Get a Receipt and Document Everything
Always ask for a receipt or invoice that includes:
- Seller’s name and contact info
- Amount of wood (volume, not weight)
- Type and condition of the wood
- Price paid
- Delivery date
If you get scammed, this documentation is crucial for filing a complaint with consumer protection agencies.
Also, take a photo of the pile when it’s delivered — especially if you plan to stack it later. This gives you a visual record in case you need to prove a short delivery.
8. Understand Pricing
Prices vary by region, wood type, and whether the wood is seasoned. Here’s a general pricing range for a full cord of seasoned hardwood:
- $200–$500 per cord in most U.S. regions
- Delivery and stacking can cost $50–$100 extra
If someone offers a full cord for $100, be suspicious. It could be:
- A face cord mislabeled
- Poor-quality or green wood
- A bait-and-switch tactic
On the flip side, higher prices don’t always guarantee quality either. Ask why the wood is priced the way it is.
9. Beware of Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace Scams
Online marketplaces can be hit or miss. If you’re sourcing firewood from these platforms:
- Look for sellers with good reviews or verified profiles
- Ask for recent customer references
- Never prepay before delivery
- Insist on seeing the wood before purchasing, if possible
If the deal sounds too good to be true, it usually is.
10. Consider Local, Family-Owned Sellers
Local businesses often depend on repeat customers and word-of-mouth, making them more reliable than fly-by-night operations. Family-run businesses usually take pride in their service and reputation.
Ask around in your community or search for trusted local firewood providers like Flathead Father N’ Son who prioritize quality, honesty, and long-term customer relationships.
What to Do If You Get Scammed
Unfortunately, scams can still happen — even to the most careful buyers. If you suspect you’ve been shorted or sold subpar wood:
- Take Photos: Show the pile as delivered and as stacked.
- Contact the Seller: Politely explain the discrepancy and give them a chance to correct it.
- File a Complaint: Contact your local Better Business Bureau, state consumer protection office, or Department of Agriculture (Weights and Measures division).
- Leave a Review: Warn other buyers by sharing your experience online.
Final Tips for a Smooth Transaction
- Ask questions upfront and be clear about your expectations
- Request a written agreement or at least a detailed invoice
- Always measure the delivery to confirm you received the correct volume
- Inspect the wood for dryness, cleanliness, and consistency
- Choose seasoned hardwood for the best burning efficiency
A little preparation and knowledge go a long way in avoiding scams and ensuring you get the warm, crackling fire you paid for.
Conclusion
Buying firewood by the cord can be a great way to stay warm and save money — but only if you know what you’re doing.
From understanding the legal definition of a cord to identifying seasoned wood and checking your delivery, it pays to be informed. Always work with reputable sellers, get everything in writing, and don’t be afraid to walk away from a deal that seems off.
Protect your investment, your chimney, and your peace of mind by following these tips. Stay warm and scam-free this winter!
Mike Hudson