Prices for a cord of wood vary by wood type, delivery, and season. Typical costs are driven by hardwood versus softwood, distance, and whether the wood is seasoned and split. This guide provides cost ranges and practical budgeting for U.S. buyers.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hardwood Cord Delivered | $200 | $350 | $600 | Seasoned, split hardwood ready for fire; varies by region |
| Softwood Cord Delivered | $150 | $250 | $450 | Typically cheaper; quicker burn, may spark more |
| Hardwood Cord Stacked/Unsplit | $180 | $320 | $550 | Lower handling cost when delivered stacked |
| Delivery Charge (one-time) | $0 | $60 | $150 | Flat fee or distance based |
| Dump/Disposal Fee (heavy load) | $0 | $20 | $75 | May apply for bulky setups or tight access |
Overview Of Costs
Cost ranges show hardwood versus softwood, delivery versus pickup, and seasonality. For a cord of wood, buyers should expect a broad spread from a low near 150–200 dollars for softwood delivered in nonpeak areas, to 350 dollars as the average for hardwood, and up to around 600 dollars or more in peak seasons or remote regions. Per-unit considerations include a cord being a large volume equal to 128 cubic feet of stacked wood, typically priced as a single unit but sometimes offered as a per face cord option or per bundle for smaller purchases. Assumptions such as region, distance, wood grade, and whether the wood is already seasoned influence the final number.
Cost Breakdown
Pricing components break out across materials, labor, and delivery related items. A typical cord price can include materials (the wood itself), delivery or labor for stacking, and optional permits or disposal fees depending on local rules and site access. The following table highlights common cost components and how they contribute to the total.
| Components | Low | Average | High | Notes | Niche Driver |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Materials | $150 | $320 | $650 | Wood type and moisture content | Hardwood SEASONED vs Green |
| Labor | $0 | $40 | $120 | Time to load, stack, and place | Delivery crew size |
| Delivery/Transport | $0 | $60 | $150 | Distance from seller to site | Urban vs rural access |
| Permits/Regulatory | $0 | $5 | $25 | Local disposal or burn rules | Town or county restrictions |
| Delivery Equipment | $0 | $15 | $50 | Forklift, ramp, or crane use | Site constraints |
| Taxes | $0 | $25 | $60 | Sales tax varies by state | State rules |
What Drives Price
Wood type, moisture, and distance are the main price drivers. Seasoned hardwood typically commands higher prices than softwood because it burns longer and cleaner. The moisture level affects weight and burn efficiency, influencing how much energy each cord yields. Proximity to the seller reduces delivery charges, while steep terrain or gated access can raise handling costs. Seasonal demand also matters, with peak winter months often seeing higher quotes, especially in colder regions.
Ways To Save
Budget tips focus on planning and choosing options that fit the home heating profile. Consider buying a mixed assortment of hardwood for long burns and softer wood for quick warming, which can balance performance with cost. Ask about bundled pricing for multiple cords or delivery windows and compare pickup versus delivery options. Stacking the wood yourself saves delivery and labor charges, but verify the wood is seasoned or partially seasoned to reduce downstream prep. In some regions, buying directly from a mill or woodlot may yield lower prices than through a broker.
Regional Price Differences
Prices vary by region and market density. In the Northeast, hardwood cords delivered may range higher due to demand and stricter regulations, while the Southeast may show lower base prices for softwood. Urban markets typically feature higher delivery fees, whereas rural areas may offer lower or negotiable transport costs. A representative spread is roughly a 10–25 percent delta between Urban, Suburban, and Rural settings, after accounting for wood type and season. Always request a written quote with the delivery distance and wood species visibly listed.
Labor, Hours & Rates
Labor charges reflect crew size and task complexity. If stacking is required, factor in an additional hour or more per cord for a small crew. Typical labor rates range from $20–$60 per hour per worker, with 2–3 workers common for delivery and stacking a full cord. A full cord may take 2–6 hours of labor depending on site accessibility and whether the buyer handles stacking. Local contractor pricing can fluctuate with fuel costs and demand cycles.
Additional & Hidden Costs
Hidden costs can unexpectedly raise the final bill. Watch for extra charges such as disposal of packaging, refuse from pallets, or a surcharge for handling bulky loads. Some sellers apply a minimum order requirement or charge a fuel surcharge when prices rise. If the site lacks a clear access path, delivery may require manual hand truck or forklift, driving up the price. Always confirm whether the quoted price includes tax and disposal fees.
Real-World Pricing Examples
Three scenario cards illustrate typical quotes in common U S markets.
Basic: Softwood scaffold bundles, 1 cord, delivered nearby, no stacking, no extras. Specs: softwood, green; labor minimal. Hours: 1–2; Total: around 150–180 dollars; per cord: 150–200 dollars. Assumptions: regional price on softwood, short travel, basic service.
Mid-Range: Hardwood cord, delivered, partially seasoned, stacked on site, basic disposal included. Specs: hardwood, moderate moisture; distance moderate. Hours: 2–4; Total: 320–450 dollars; per cord: 320–420 dollars. Assumptions: typical regional mix, standard access, partial seasoning.
Premium: Hardwood cord, delivered and stacked, full seasoning, no hidden fees, optional moisture test at delivery. Specs: seasoned hardwood, long burn, remote delivery. Hours: 3–5; Total: 520–720 dollars; per cord: 490–650 dollars. Assumptions: peak season, rural supplier, full service.
Assumptions: region, specs, labor hours.