When Is The Best Time to Buy Firewood?

One of the most common questions we hear is when people should buy firewood. The short answer is that earlier is almost always better. The longer answer depends on how you heat, how much space you have, and how much flexibility you want during the winter.

Firewood is not an unlimited or instant product. It takes time to source logs, cut and split firewood, allow it to dry properly, and schedule delivery within limited capacity. As colder weather approaches, demand increases quickly, and once inventory or delivery capacity is full, availability can become limited or sell out entirely.

If you have the space, spring and early summer are often the best times to buy firewood. Availability is usually highest during this time of year, delivery scheduling is more flexible, and there is plenty of time for additional drying if needed. Customers who buy early tend to avoid the stress and uncertainty that can come later in the season.

Late summer and early fall are still a good window for many customers, but demand begins to increase and delivery schedules start to fill faster. Firewood is often still available, but options can become more limited the longer you wait. Ordering during this period usually works well, but waiting too long can reduce scheduling flexibility.

Once winter is underway, demand typically spikes. This is when many people realize they have underestimated how much wood they will burn. Delivery schedules fill quickly, inventory can run out, and availability is never guaranteed. Last-minute or emergency requests are most common during this time.

Firewood production takes time and cannot be rushed without affecting quality or safety. Customers who plan ahead are more likely to secure availability, have better delivery options, and enjoy a smoother heating season overall.

When possible, ordering firewood at least one season ahead works best. Customers who can store about one to one and a half years’ worth of firewood often have the most flexibility. If a winter is colder than expected, they have extra wood to pull from. If the winter is mild, they are already ahead and may need to order less the following year.

There is no single perfect time for everyone to buy firewood, but earlier ordering almost always leads to a better experience. Firewood is sold on a first come, first served basis, and once inventory or delivery capacity is full, it may not be available again until the next season. Planning ahead helps avoid stress and keeps things simple.