Selling Firewood

Is it worth selling firewood?

Firewood is labor intensive and low margin. Count your time, fuel, equipment, repairs, delivery and drying space. Many sellers find that firewood pays best as a side income during the season. Ask yourself whether you would rather sell wood or sell your time, because customers pay for convenience, such as delivery and stacking.

Calculate costs honestly before you decide. If the numbers only work when your labor is free, think carefully.

Demand varies by region and by year. Ask local sellers what the market is like.

How do I measure and describe what I sell?

Wood is often sold by the cord, but the legal definition and the rules for terms such as face cord or rick differ by state. Selling by an unclear unit can cause disputes and legal trouble. A written invoice that lists species, quantity, unit and price protects both sides and heads off disputes. Use a measuring frame or a marked pallet so you can show the buyer how much wood they are getting, and stack deliveries neatly so the amount is easy to see.

Check with your state department of agriculture or weights and measures office for how firewood must be measured and advertised.

Be clear about species, length, split size and how dry the wood is.

What about seasoning and quality?

Customers want dry wood that burns well. Selling wet wood as seasoned damages trust and invites complaints. Be honest about moisture, and offer seasoned and green options at different prices if you like. Offering a few bundles of kindling or smaller amounts for campers and stove users can reach customers who are not buying a full load. Keep notes on which customers asked for which type of wood, as repeat orders often come from the same households each fall.

Keep wood clean and free of rot, mold and treated lumber. Stack neatly so the quantity is easy to see.

A moisture meter helps you back up what you say.

• Clear description of species and size
• Honest statement of dryness
• No treated or contaminated wood
• Neat, consistent stacking

Do I need licenses, permits or insurance?

Selling goods may require a business license, a tax registration and sales tax collection, depending on where you live. Zoning rules may limit roadside sales. Ask your county and state offices. Ask your county about home occupation rules if you plan to run deliveries or sales from your farm, and consider posting clear hours and a safe area for customers to park.

Some states also regulate moving firewood to prevent the spread of pests, which can affect where you can sell.

A farm or business insurance policy may be wise, since delivery and customers on your land add risk. Talk to a licensed insurance agent. The SBA offers general business guidance.

• Business license and tax registration questions
• Sales tax collection rules
• Insurance for delivery and customers on site

How do I price fairly?

Look at what local sellers charge and compare quality and unit. Do not guess at a price or copy a number without checking that the unit is the same. A single satisfied customer is more valuable than a one-time price edge, so aim for consistency. Write down your prices for the season and share them clearly, so there are no surprises at delivery.

Account for delivery distance, stacking and species. Offer a clear price in writing before delivery.

Pricing too low hurts you and your neighbors, and pricing too high without quality loses customers.

How do I treat customers well?

Give an honest measure, deliver when promised, and answer questions plainly. Keep records of orders and payments, and be willing to fix a mistake. Tell customers how to store and burn the wood safely, including keeping a stack off the house wall, since your reputation is tied to the experience they have.

Happy customers return and refer others, which is the best advertising a small seller has.

Be careful with personal information, and do not post customers' details publicly.

What safety and tax points matter?

Cutting, splitting and delivering wood carry injury risks. Follow safe practices, train and wear protection, and avoid overloading trucks and trailers.

Income from sales is generally taxable and records matter. A licensed tax professional can tell you how it applies to you. This is not tax or legal advice.

Keep receipts and a simple ledger for every sale and expense.

Last reviewed: November 12, 2026. Written by the Rural Farm Life Editorial Team. See our editorial policy.