One of the most common questions we get asked is whether it’s cheaper to buy firewood in bulk.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the financial benefits of buying logs in bulk and how to calculate whether it’s the best choice for you.
The Cost of Firewood: Why Bulk Buys Make Sense
When it comes to purchasing firewood, there are two ways you can buy it: per bag or in bulk. Buying logs in bulk often means purchasing large quantities, usually by the cubic metre (m³), which can be a significant investment upfront. However, it tends to offer substantial cost savings compared to buying small quantities of firewood, particularly if you need wood regularly throughout the heating season.
Per Bag vs. Bulk Firewood
Firewood is typically sold in bags, or by weight, but the size of bags can vary depending on the retailer. Smaller quantities, like a few bags, might seem convenient but often come with a higher price tag. This is because retailers need to factor in the cost of packaging, delivery, and the smaller quantity of logs.
When you purchase firewood in bulk, these additional costs are spread across a much larger amount of wood. As a result, buying in bulk often works out much cheaper in the long run. But how do you determine whether bulk buying is the best option for your needs?
How Much Firewood Do You Need?
Before considering bulk firewood, it's essential to estimate how much wood you’re likely to use during the season. Typically, a household with regular use of a wood burner might burn between 4 and 6 cubic metres of firewood per winter. Of course, this depends on several factors, including:
- Size of the home: Larger homes or homes with an open-plan design might require more wood for heating.
- Frequency of use: If you’re burning wood every day, you’ll need more logs than someone who only lights a fire occasionally.
- Efficiency of the stove: Newer, more efficient stoves will consume less wood, while older models might burn more.
Calculating your needs will help you determine whether buying in bulk makes sense. If you know you’ll need several cubic metres of firewood, it’s a good idea to buy it in one go, as you’ll generally get a better deal.
Financial Benefits of Buying Logs in Bulk
Lower Price Per Unit
One of the key benefits of buying logs in bulk is the reduction in price per unit. A cubic metre of firewood is often cheaper than purchasing multiple bags, especially when you factor in delivery costs. By purchasing in larger quantities, you avoid the repeated costs of buying smaller amounts and can lock in a lower price for your firewood.
Reduced Delivery Charges
When buying in bulk, many firewood suppliers will charge a flat delivery fee, which is usually much cheaper than the repeated delivery fees that come with buying bags of firewood. For example, if you were to buy a few bags at a time, you might end up paying for multiple deliveries. But buying in bulk usually means that you only pay for one delivery, even if you're purchasing a significant amount of wood. This can further reduce your overall costs.
Convenience and Storage
While there’s a larger upfront investment when purchasing firewood in bulk, you’ll avoid the hassle of frequent trips to the supplier. With bulk firewood, once it’s delivered, you’re set for the entire season. This means less time spent shopping for logs and more time enjoying your fire.
However, it’s essential to have enough storage space to keep your logs dry and properly seasoned. Bulk orders will require more space, so ensure you have an adequate area, like a shed or a dedicated log store, to prevent the wood from getting wet or spoiling.
Are There Any Drawbacks to Buying Logs in Bulk?
While bulk buying firewood has many advantages, there are some factors to consider:
Upfront Cost
The most obvious downside to purchasing in bulk is the upfront cost. A cubic metre of firewood can be a significant outlay, particularly if you’re not sure how much wood you’ll use. However, this is often outweighed by the savings over time, especially if you use a lot of wood.
Storage Space
As mentioned earlier, bulk firewood requires adequate storage space. If you don’t have room to store a full load of logs, this could be a significant challenge. Make sure your home or garden has the space necessary to keep your firewood dry and ready to use.
Quality Control
While most firewood suppliers provide high-quality logs, some bulk orders may include wood that hasn’t been seasoned properly or contains excessive amounts of softwood, which burns quicker and provides less heat. Be sure to check the reputation of your firewood supplier and ask for seasoned logs that are ready to burn.
Is Buying Logs in Bulk Right for You?
If you use firewood regularly and have the space to store it, purchasing in bulk is almost always the most economical choice. Not only will you save on per-unit costs and delivery fees, but you’ll also avoid the inconvenience of having to purchase firewood repeatedly throughout the season.
However, if you only use a small amount of firewood or lack the storage space for a bulk order, it might be better to buy smaller quantities. Always assess your heating needs and storage options before making a decision.
Conclusion
In summary, buying firewood in bulk is generally cheaper than purchasing smaller amounts. The cost savings come from lower prices per unit, reduced delivery charges, and the convenience of having a large stock of wood for the season. If you have the storage space and use firewood regularly, buying in bulk is a cost-effective and practical solution.
If you're ready to make the switch to bulk firewood and start saving this winter, look no further! Our premium, seasoned firewood is available in bulk quantities at unbeatable prices.