When the chill settles in and you start reaching for a blanket by instinct, there’s nothing quite like the warm glow of a wood fire. But getting that fire going takes more than a spark—it takes preparation, time, and a good stack of seasoned wood. For most homeowners, especially those with full plates, the idea of chopping or hauling their own firewood is more charming in theory than in practice. That’s where firewood delivery comes in.

Delivered firewood can save you hours of labor, eliminate the guesswork of drying times, and keep your home ready for anything from casual fireside evenings to power outages. Still, the process isn’t as straightforward as ordering pizza. Between questionable measurements, misleading ads, and piles left to rot in the rain, knowing what to expect can make all the difference. This guide walks through every step, from choosing a supplier to stacking your last log, helping you avoid common mistakes and get the most out of your firewood investment.

If you’re just starting out, our guide on how to find a firewood supplier offers some foundational advice.

Understanding the Delivery Landscape

Firewood delivery comes in more forms than most people realize. You might get a loose pile dropped at the edge of your driveway or a neatly bundled stack on a pallet. Some suppliers will even rack and stack it for you on-site—for an added fee, of course.

The type of delivery you choose should match both your storage setup and your tolerance for extra work. Bulk drop-offs are the most economical but require time and tools to manage. Palletized or bagged deliveries cost more but offer a cleaner and easier transfer to your storage area.

The wood itself varies even more. Seasoned firewood, which has dried for at least six months, is what you want if you plan to burn it right away. It produces more heat and less smoke. Green wood, still heavy with moisture, won’t burn efficiently and can cause creosote buildup in chimneys. Always ask what you’re getting.

Terminology can also be confusing. A full cord measures 128 cubic feet—imagine a stack 4 feet high, 4 feet deep, and 8 feet long. A face cord is usually a third of that depth, and a rick is a more flexible term that can vary by region. It’s smart to clarify with the supplier before you place your order.

Prices depend on your location, the type of wood, and how it’s delivered. Hardwoods like oak and hickory tend to cost more than softwoods like pine. Expect seasoned wood to carry a premium, but it’s often worth it for the performance. Our guide to the types of firewood breaks down what’s best for your needs, and the firewood BTU chart is a great reference for comparing heat output by species.

Finding a Supplier You Can Trust

Not all firewood delivery services are created equal. Some are seasoned pros. Others are just flipping wood from a truck with no standards and no return policy. The key is to do your homework.

Start by asking clear questions. What species are they delivering? Is it seasoned or green? How do they measure a cord? What’s included in the price—just the drop-off, or stacking too?

Watch for red flags. Vague answers about seasoning, unwillingness to provide moisture readings, or sketchy definitions of volume are all warning signs. Also beware of deals that seem too good to be true. They usually are.

Word of mouth is still the gold standard. Neighbors, local hardware stores, and trusted community boards often have better recommendations than anonymous listings. For a vetted starting point, browse our firewood supplier directory by region.

Figuring Out How Much Wood You Actually Need

The amount of firewood you’ll burn depends on how you’re using it. Heating your home full-time with a wood stove is a completely different game than tossing a few logs in the fireplace on weekends.

Location plays a huge role. In colder northern states, even supplemental use can burn through a couple of cords each winter. Warmer climates may need far less. Other factors include home insulation, stove efficiency, and how often you’re home to tend the fire.

You also need to think about storage space. Don’t order four cords if you only have room for two. A good rule of thumb: start with a season’s worth based on previous use or average estimates, then adjust from there. Our detailed breakdown on how much firewood you need (/how-much-firewood-do-i-need) offers sample calculations to help you decide.

Setting the Stage for Delivery Day

A little planning before delivery makes a big difference. First, pick a drop-off spot that’s easy to reach and won’t block your driveway or daily access. Think ahead to where you’ll be stacking the wood and aim to minimize hauling distance.

If the wood’s going on your lawn or pavers, lay down a tarp or plywood to prevent damage. Make sure the area is level and clear of snow or standing water if possible.

Be ready with essentials. A good pair of gloves, a wheelbarrow or heavy-duty garden cart, and a dry place to start stacking all come in handy. If you’re looking to gear up, there are some well-reviewed options for gloves, firewood racks, firewood rack cover, and even kindling splitters linked throughout this guide.

What to Do When the Truck Shows Up

The moment the firewood arrives, take a pause before you start stacking. This is your chance to check the quality and quantity of what you paid for.

First, look at the wood. Is it clean? Is there a mix of sizes? Do you see visible cracks on the ends, which are a good sign of seasoning? Then, check the moisture level if you have a meter. Anything under 20 percent is ideal.

If something feels off—too little wood, obvious green logs, signs of rot or pests—take photos. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or even turn away a delivery that clearly doesn’t match the description. Especially with first-time suppliers, documenting everything can help you avoid disputes later.

Why Good Stacking Matters

It might seem harmless to leave your pile in a heap for a few days, but that’s one of the fastest ways to ruin good firewood. Proper stacking helps wood dry evenly, keeps pests away, and makes it easier to grab what you need later.

Always keep the wood off the ground. Use a rack, pallet, or even scrap lumber to elevate the stack. Leave space between logs for airflow. A single row stacked in sunlight with room on either side is ideal for seasoning and storage.

If your wood will be outside, cover the top but leave the sides open. Indoors, only bring in what you plan to burn soon to avoid bugs and mold. For walkthroughs and more storage tips, explore our guide to firewood stacking tips. We also recommend browsing reliable stacking tools, firewood racks, and covers if you’re building your setup from scratch.

Know What’s Normal Where You Live

Regional differences shape everything from wood species to delivery methods. Northeastern suppliers tend to offer oak, ash, or maple. In the Pacific Northwest, fir and alder are common. Down South, you might see more hickory or pecan.

Drying times also vary. What takes six months to season in Arizona might take a full year in New England. Delivery trucks in rural areas may pull right onto your land, while urban drop-offs might need to be more strategic due to parking and access.

We’ve compiled a full set of regional wood guides to help you understand what’s typical in your area—and where to find reliable suppliers nearby.

Mistakes First-Timers Often Make

Even seasoned homeowners slip up now and then. One of the most common mistakes is accepting green wood passed off as seasoned. Always ask for proof or test it yourself.

Another misstep is letting the delivery sit in a heap. Even good wood will spoil if it’s left to soak in the rain. And don’t forget the basics: prep your space, know your order, and clean up after stacking. Leftover debris or splinters can become hazards quickly.

Partial cords sold at full-cord prices are another issue. Know your measurements, and don’t hesitate to pull out a tape measure if something seems fishy.

Making Firewood Delivery a Long-Term Win

With the right supplier, firewood delivery can become part of your seasonal rhythm. It saves time, keeps your space cleaner, and helps you plan ahead.

As you get more comfortable, consider setting up regular deliveries with suppliers you trust. Many offer seasonal or yearly packages once they know your burn rate and preferences.

If you’re ready to explore options nearby, browse our local firewood delivery services or use our supplier directory by state to find someone reliable in your area.