A Primecut Firewoods Resource

In this article, we address multiple aspects related to the question of “How much is a cord of wood?” by providing information on two different interpretations—the cost of firewood and the physical dimensions of various cords of firewood. Our explanation includes details on wood types and characteristics such as seasoned vs. semi-seasoned firewood, along with several other closely related topics.

At Primecut Firewoods, we believe that understanding firewood measurements and quality is essential for making an informed purchase. Firewood remains a crucial commodity for millions of people worldwide who have relied on its energy for thousands of years. This article was created in response to the high demand for reliable information online, as the calculation of a cord of wood is often unclear and can lead to disputes between buyers and sellers.

Despite the significant role firewood has played in the development of societies, consistency around terminology and measurement remains a challenge. The aim of this guide is to clarify the topic and provide a comprehensive, easy-to-understand explanation.

How Much Is a Cord of Wood?

Metric vs. Imperial Measurements

1st Question: What Is the Volume of a Cord of Wood?

Cord of Wood: A tidy, compact stack of wood that fits within the following dimensions:

Imperial

• Width: 8 ft
• Height: 4 ft
• Depth: 4 ft
• Volume: 128 cubic feet

Metric

• Width: 122 cm
• Height: 244 cm
• Depth: 122 cm
• Volume: 3.62 m³

A cord of wood refers to a full stack of firewood arranged so the pieces are aligned, parallel, touching, and compact, occupying a space measuring 4 feet high, 4 feet deep, and 8 feet long.

While a cord measures 128 cubic feet, the actual solid wood volume is closer to 90 cubic feet due to air gaps between logs.

• Half cord: 4′ × 4′ × 4′ = 64 cubic feet

Visualizing a Cord of Wood

• Weight ranges from 2,500 lbs (softwood) to 5,000 lbs (hardwood)
• Standard firewood length: 16 inches (⅓ of cord depth)
• Small pickup truck: ~¼ cord
• ½-ton short bed pickup: ~½ cord
• Long bed pickup with racks: ~1 full cord

Note: The Canadian government has proposed replacing the term “cord of wood” with “stacked cubic metre” for accuracy. Terms like “face cord,” “rick cord,” or “stove cord” remain vague and are often a source of confusion.

Average Cost of a Cord of Wood (U.S.)

Average cost: $296 USD

(Prices vary by region, wood type, season, and demand.)

How Big Is a Cord of Wood? Legal Measurement

To be considered a full cord, firewood must be “ranked and well stowed,” meaning neatly stacked with minimal gaps:

• Height: 4 ft (122 cm)
• Width: 8 ft (244 cm)
• Depth: 4 ft (122 cm)
• Volume: 128 cu ft (3.62 m³)

Hardwood vs. Softwood

Hardwood Characteristics

Hardwoods come from angiosperm (flowering) trees. They are denser, burn longer, and provide more BTUs per pound, making them ideal for heating.

Common hardwoods include:

• Beech
• Elm
• Maple
• Aspen
• Birch

Softwood Characteristics

Softwoods come from evergreen and conifer trees such as:

• Pine
• Spruce
• Cedar
• Willow
• Sweetgum

While softwoods produce similar heat per pound, they deliver less heat per volume and burn faster.

Firewood Moisture Levels

Moisture content is one of the most important factors in firewood performance. Excess moisture causes popping, poor heat output, and heavy smoke.

• Newly felled trees: ~52% moisture (can exceed 100%)
• Seasoned firewood: typically 25–40%
• Ideal burning moisture: ~15%

Seasoned Firewood

• Minimum: ~8 months
• Hardwoods: 12–24 months
• Final moisture: <20%

Green Firewood

• Fresh-cut wood averages ~52% moisture
• Can exceed 100% due to internal water weight

Kiln-Dried Firewood

Example (split oak, 14″–18″):

• 140°F → 260 hours
• 180°F → 90 hours
• 220°F → 30 hours
  Final moisture: ≤20%

The Truth About Firewood Pricing

Firewood prices fluctuate annually based on:

• Region
• Wood species
• Demand
• Weather
• Availability

Unlike manufactured goods, firewood has no fixed price. Each state and region operates under unique market conditions. At Primecut Firewoods, we encourage customers to focus on quality, moisture content, and true cord measurements when comparing prices.

Final Thoughts from Primecut Firewoods

Firewood has been measured in “cords” since the early 1600s, when bundles were tied with rope or cord. Today, it remains the standard unit—yet also one of the most misunderstood.

With over three billion people worldwide still relying on firewood for heat and cooking, understanding what you’re buying matters more than ever.

This guide was created to answer the most common firewood questions and help homeowners make confident, informed decisions—because better knowledge leads to a better burn