This article breaks down the cost to buy a 6x6x10 cedar post in the United States, including typical price ranges and what drives price. Buyers should expect variation by grade, sourcing region, and whether the post is unsawn, rough-sawn, or pressure-treated for durability. The main cost drivers are the wood quality, length, and whether shipping or delivery is included. Pricing reflects per-post cost and commonly available bulk options.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6x6x10 Cedar Post (uninstalled) | $25 | $50 | $90 | Common bare post pricing; regional variation applies |
| Delivery per post | $0 | $15 | $40 | Depends on distance and access |
| Guides/fasteners (optional) | $2 | $6 | $12 | Bulk may reduce per-unit costs |
| Installation labor per post | $20 | $60 | $120 | Dependent on soil and concrete needs |
| Total per post (installed, mid-range) | $55 | $125 | $260 | Includes delivery and basic install |
Cedar Post Price Snapshot for 6x6x10 Units
Typical total per-post price range reflects raw cedar quality and basic finish. The lower end assumes unsawn, straight-grain cedar from midwest mills, with standard delivery and no onsite concrete work. The mid-range adds common care coatings or sealant and standard delivery in urban corridors. The high end covers premium cedar, longer lead times, and expedited shipping. Assumptions: Midwest labor rates, standard materials, normal access.
Major Cost Components in Cedar Post Pricing
- Materials: Cedar posts themselves, typically 6x6x10, with grades ranging from standard to select.
- Delivery: Freight or local delivery; varies by mileage.
- Hardware: Staples, connectors, post caps, and optional brackets.
- Labor: Installation tasks such as soil prep, setting in concrete, and alignment.
- Permits/Fees: Generally minimal for simple fence/posts projects but may apply regionally.
| Cost Category | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Materials | $25 | $50 | $90 | Per post, typical grade range |
| Delivery | $0 | $15 | $40 | Per post or per batch |
| Labor | $20 | $60 | $120 | Installation and leveling |
| Accessories | $2 | $6 | $12 | Cap, bracket, screws |
| Total per post (installed) | $55 | $125 | $260 | Mid-range scenario |
How Size and Quality Drive the Cedar Post Cost
Length and diameter multiply material cost quickly. A full 6x6x10 cedar post sits larger than standard fencing posts, pushing wood consumption higher and reducing yield per tree. Higher-grade cedar increases price per linear foot but improves durability. Regional timber scarcity can push price up during peak seasons.
Regional Price Differences for 6x6x10 Cedar Posts
Coastal and western regions tend to show higher base prices due to limited local mills, while central regions may offer lower raw-material pricing. Delivery windows and access margins also shift regional quotes. Assumptions: urban markets have higher delivery premiums.
Labor and Installation Impact on Total Cedar Post Costs
Labor varies by soil type, access, and whether setting in concrete is needed. A typical install may require 0.5–1.5 hours per post, depending on site prep. Labor is a major swing factor in total cost, especially when trenching or backfilling is needed.
Bulk Purchase and Volume Discounts
Buying 25–50 posts can reduce per-unit price through bulk pricing and shipping efficiency. Discounts usually apply to the material portion and may exclude delivery. Ask for line-item quotes to compare unit costs.
Ways to Reduce Cedar Post Costs Without Compromising Quality
Strategies include choosing standard cedar grade, batching delivery, opting for unsanded surfaces, and coordinating with nearby projects to share delivery. Careful scope control and timing can shave per-post costs.
Three Real-World Quote Scenarios for 6x6x10 Cedar Posts
- Scenario A: 12 posts, standard grade, local delivery, no concrete; total $720-$1,440
- Scenario B: 8 posts, select grade, mid-range delivery, concrete setting; total $640-$1,120
- Scenario C: 20 posts, premium grade, expedited shipping, installation labor; total $2,000-$4,000
Per-Unit Versus Installed Cost Breakdown
The following table shows the split between material and delivery/installation costs for a typical mid-range order. Per-unit pricing helps compare bids.
| Post Type | Materials | Delivery | Labor | Total per Post |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6x6x10 Cedar Post (mid-range) | $50 | $15 | $60 | $125 |
| Premium Grade | $90 | $25 | $75 | $190 |