firewood processor business plan

Firewood Business Plan Template

Written by Dave Lavinsky

Firewood Business Plan

Over the past 20+ years, we have helped over 500 entrepreneurs and business owners create business plans to start and grow their firewood companies.

If you’re unfamiliar with creating a firewood business plan, you may think creating one will be a time-consuming and frustrating process. For most entrepreneurs it is, but for you, it won’t be since we’re here to help. We have the experience, resources, and knowledge to help you create a great business plan.

In this article, you will learn some background information on why business planning is important. Then, you will learn how to write a firewood business plan step-by-step so you can create your plan today.

Download our Ultimate Business Plan Template here >

What is a Firewood Business Plan?

A business plan provides a snapshot of your firewood business as it stands today, and lays out your growth plan for the next five years. It explains your business goals and your strategies for reaching them. It also includes market research to support your plans.

Why You Need a Business Plan for a Firewood Business

If you’re looking to start a firewood business or grow your existing firewood company, you need a business plan. A business plan will help you raise funding, if needed, and plan out the growth of your firewood business to improve your chances of success. Your firewood business plan is a living document that should be updated annually as your company grows and changes.

Sources of Funding for Firewood Businesses

With regards to funding, the main sources of funding for a firewood business are personal savings, credit cards, bank loans, and angel investors. When it comes to bank loans, banks will want to review your business plan and gain confidence that you will be able to repay your loan and interest. To acquire this confidence, the loan officer will not only want to ensure that your financials are reasonable, but they will also want to see a professional plan. Such a plan will give them the confidence that you can successfully and professionally operate a business. Personal savings and bank loans are the most common funding paths for firewood companies.

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How to write a business plan for a firewood business.

If you want to start a firewood business or expand your current one, you need a business plan. The guide below details the necessary information for how to write each essential component of your firewood business plan.

Executive Summary

Your executive summary provides an introduction to your business plan, but it is normally the last section you write because it provides a summary of each key section of your plan.

The goal of your executive summary is to quickly engage the reader. Explain to them the kind of firewood business you are running and the status. For example, are you a startup, do you have a firewood business that you would like to grow, or are you operating a chain of firewood businesses?

Next, provide an overview of each of the subsequent sections of your plan.

• Give a brief overview of the firewood industry.
• Discuss the type of firewood business you are operating.
• Detail your direct competitors. Give an overview of your target customers.
• Provide a snapshot of your marketing strategy. Identify the key members of your team.
• Offer an overview of your financial plan.

Company Overview

In your company overview, you will detail the type of firewood business you are operating.

For example, you might specialize in one of the following types of firewood businesses:

• Firewood delivery: This type of firewood business specializes in sourcing and transporting cords or bundles of firewood to retailers and directly to consumers.
• Bulk firewood: This type of business specializes in processing and selling bulk cords or bundles of firewood to businesses and wood-burning stove owners.
• Campgrounds and fire pits: This type of firewood business focuses on processing and selling small firewood bundles for use at campsites or in fire pits.

In addition to explaining the type of firewood business you will operate, the company overview needs to provide background on the business.

Include answers to questions such as:

• When and why did you start the business?
• What milestones have you achieved to date? Milestones could include the number of customers served, the number of firewood sources acquired, reaching $X amount in revenue, etc.
• Your legal business Are you incorporated as an S-Corp? An LLC? A sole proprietorship? Explain your legal structure here.

Industry Analysis

In your industry or market analysis, you need to provide an overview of the firewood industry.

While this may seem unnecessary, it serves multiple purposes.

First, researching the firewood industry educates you. It helps you understand the market in which you are operating.

Secondly, market research can improve your marketing strategy, particularly if your analysis identifies market trends.

The third reason is to prove to readers that you are an expert in your industry. By conducting the research and presenting it in your plan, you achieve just that.

The following questions should be answered in the industry analysis section of your firewood business plan:

• How big is the firewood industry (in dollars)?
• Is the market declining or increasing?
• Who are the key competitors in the market?
• Who are the key suppliers in the market?
• What trends are affecting the industry?
• What is the industry’s growth forecast over the next 5 – 10 years?
• What is the relevant market size? That is, how big is the potential target market for your firewood business? You can extrapolate such a figure by assessing the size of the market in the entire country and then applying that figure to your local population.

Customer Analysis

The customer analysis section of your firewood business plan must detail the customers you serve and/or expect to serve.

The following are examples of customer segments: individuals, schools, families, and corporations.

As you can imagine, the customer segment(s) you choose will have a great impact on the type of firewood business you operate. Clearly, individuals would respond to different marketing promotions than corporations, for example.

Try to break out your target customers in terms of their demographic and psychographic profiles. With regards to demographics, including a discussion of the ages, genders, locations, and income levels of the potential customers you seek to serve.

Psychographic profiles explain the wants and needs of your target customers. The more you can recognize and define these needs, the better you will do in attracting and retaining your customers.

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Competitive Analysis

Your competitive analysis should identify the indirect and direct competitors your business faces and then focus on the latter.

Direct competitors are other firewood businesses.

Indirect competitors are other options that customers have to purchase from that aren’t directly competing with your product or service. This includes grocery stores that have an internal source for their firewood inventory and retailers of gas or electric stoves. You need to mention such competition as well.

For each such competitor, provide an overview of their business and document their strengths and weaknesses. Unless you once worked at your competitors’ businesses, it will be impossible to know everything about them. But you should be able to find out key things about them such as

• What types of customers do they serve?
• What type of firewood business are they?
• What is their pricing (premium, low, etc.)?
• What are they good at?
• What are their weaknesses?

With regards to the last two questions, think about your answers from the customers’ perspective. And don’t be afraid to ask your competitors’ customers what they like most and least about them.

The final part of your competitive analysis section is to document your areas of competitive advantage. For example:

• Will you make it easier for customers to acquire your product or service?
• Will you offer products or services that your competition doesn’t?
• Will you provide better customer service?
• Will you offer better pricing?

Think about ways you will outperform your competition and document them in this section of your plan.  

Marketing Plan

Traditionally, a marketing plan includes the four P’s: Product, Price, Place, and Promotion. For a firewood business plan, your marketing strategy should include the following:

Product : In the product section, you should reiterate the type of firewood company that you documented in your company overview. Then, detail the specific products or services you will be offering. For example, will you provide birch, maple, or oak wood?

Price : Document the prices you will offer and how they compare to your competitors. Essentially in the product and price sub-sections of your plan, you are presenting the products and/or services you offer and their prices.

Place : Place refers to the site of your firewood company. Document where your company is situated and mention how the site will impact your success. For example, is your firewood business located in a busy retail district, a business district, a standalone facility, or purely online? Discuss how your site might be the ideal location for your customers.

Promotions : The final part of your firewood marketing plan is where you will document how you will drive potential customers to your location(s). The following are some promotional methods you might consider:

• Advertise in local papers, radio stations and/or magazines
• Reach out to websites
• Distribute flyers
• Engage in email marketing
• Advertise on social media platforms
• Improve the SEO (search engine optimization) on your website for targeted keywords

Operations Plan

While the earlier sections of your business plan explained your goals, your operations plan describes how you will meet them. Your operations plan should have two distinct sections as follows.

Everyday short-term processes include all of the tasks involved in running your firewood business, including answering calls, scheduling deliveries, meeting with customers, collecting payements, etc.

Long-term goals are the milestones you hope to achieve. These could include the dates when you expect to acquire your Xth customer, or when you hope to reach $X in revenue. It could also be when you expect to expand your firewood business to a new location.  

Management Team

To demonstrate your firewood business’ potential to succeed, a strong management team is essential. Highlight your key players’ backgrounds, emphasizing those skills and experiences that prove their ability to grow a company.

Ideally, you and/or your team members have direct experience in managing firewood businesses. If so, highlight this experience and expertise. But also highlight any experience that you think will help your business succeed.

If your team is lacking, consider assembling an advisory board. An advisory board would include 2 to 8 individuals who would act as mentors to your business. They would help answer questions and provide strategic guidance. If needed, look for advisory board members with experience in managing a firewood business.  

Financial Plan

Your financial plan should include your 5-year financial statement broken out both monthly or quarterly for the first year and then annually. Your financial statements include your income statement, balance sheet, and cash flow statements.

Income Statement

An income statement is more commonly called a Profit and Loss statement or P&L. It shows your revenue and then subtracts your costs to show whether you turned a profit or not.

In developing your income statement, you need to devise assumptions. For example, will you sell by the cord or by the bundle? And will sales grow by 2% or 10% per year? As you can imagine, your choice of assumptions will greatly impact the financial forecasts for your business. As much as possible, conduct research to try to root your assumptions in reality.

Balance Sheets

Balance sheets show your assets and liabilities. While balance sheets can include much information, try to simplify them to the key items you need to know about. For instance, if you spend $50,000 on building out your firewood business, this will not give you immediate profits. Rather it is an asset that will hopefully help you generate profits for years to come. Likewise, if a lender writes you a check for $50,000, you don’t need to pay it back immediately. Rather, that is a liability you will pay back over time.

Cash Flow Statement

Your cash flow statement will help determine how much money you need to start or grow your business, and ensure you never run out of money. What most entrepreneurs and business owners don’t realize is that you can turn a profit but run out of money and go bankrupt.

When creating your Income Statement and Balance Sheets be sure to include several of the key costs needed in starting or growing a firewood business:

• Cost of firewood processing equipment and supplies
• Payroll or salaries paid to staff
• Business insurance
• Other start-up expenses (if you’re a new business) like legal expenses, permits, computer software, and equipment

Attach your full financial projections in the appendix of your plan along with any supporting documents that make your plan more compelling. For example, you might include your facility location lease or a list of your firewood sources.  

Writing a business plan for your firewood business is a worthwhile endeavor. If you follow the template above, by the time you are done, you will truly be an expert. You will understand the firewood industry, your competition, and your customers. You will develop a marketing strategy and will understand what it takes to launch and grow a successful firewood business.  

Firewood Business Plan Template FAQs

What is the easiest way to complete my firewood business plan.

Growthink's Ultimate Business Plan Template allows you to quickly and easily write your firewood business plan.

How Do You Start a Firewood Business?

Starting a firewood business is easy with these 14 steps:

• Choose the Name for Your Firewood Business
• Create Your Firewood Business Plan
• Choose the Legal Structure for Your Firewood Business
• Secure Startup Funding for Firewood Business (If Needed)
• Secure a Location for Your Business
• Register Your Firewood Business with the IRS
• Open a Business Bank Account
• Get a Business Credit Card
• Get the Required Business Licenses and Permits
• Get Business Insurance for Your Firewood Business
• Buy or Lease the Right Firewood Business Equipment
• Develop Your Firewood Business Marketing Materials
• Purchase and Setup the Software Needed to Run Your Firewood Business
• Open for Business

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How to Write Firewood Business Plan? [Free Template]

Are you dreaming of starting a firewood business but feel lost when it comes to creating a business plan? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! In this guide, we’ll guide you through the process of writing a winning firewood business plan in a fun and easy-to-understand way.

Imagine this: You’re building a cozy campfire, but instead of roasting marshmallows, you’re crafting a blueprint for your very own firewood empire. Sounds exciting, right? With our help, you’ll be able to transform your passion for firewood into a thriving business.

Free Business Plan Template

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• Fill in the blanks – Outline
• Financial Tables

What is a Firewood Business Plan?

A firewood business plan is a comprehensive document that outlines every aspect of your firewood venture, from the initial concept to the operational and financial strategies. It serves as a roadmap, guiding you through the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead, while ensuring that your business remains focused and aligned with your goals.

Why you need a Business Plan for Firewood?

A well-crafted firewood business plan is essential for several reasons:

• Secure Funding: Whether you’re seeking a loan from a bank, investments from private investors, or grants, a solid business plan is often required to demonstrate the viability and potential of your firewood business.
• Attract Investors and Partners: A comprehensive business plan can help you attract investors, partners, and key stakeholders who can contribute to the growth and success of your firewood venture.
• Guide Strategic Decision-Making: Your business plan will serve as a reference point for making informed decisions about your operations, marketing strategies, and financial management.
• Identify Opportunities and Mitigate Risks: By conducting thorough market research and analysis, your business plan will help you identify potential opportunities and risks in the firewood industry, allowing you to make data-driven decisions.
• Measure Progress and Adapt: With clearly defined milestones and benchmarks, your business plan will help you track your progress, evaluate your performance, and make necessary adjustments as your firewood business grows.

Sources of Funding for Firewood Business

Starting a firewood business often requires a significant investment in equipment, inventory, and operational costs. Here are some potential sources of funding to consider:

• Personal Savings: Using your own savings or assets can provide you with greater control and ownership over your business, but it also carries a higher risk.
• Bank Loans: Banks and credit unions offer various loan options for small businesses, including term loans, lines of credit, and equipment financing. However, you’ll need to provide a solid business plan and meet their lending criteria.
• Investors: Angel investors, venture capitalists, or private equity firms can provide the capital you need in exchange for equity in your firewood business. This option can be more flexible but may require giving up partial ownership and control.
• Grants and Subsidies: Depending on your location and business model, you may be eligible for government grants, subsidies, or other funding programs designed to support small businesses or sustainable forestry initiatives.
• Crowdfunding: Platforms like Kickstarter and Indiegogo can be used to raise funds from a large pool of individuals who believe in your firewood business idea and are willing to contribute in exchange for rewards or equity.

How to Write a Business Plan for a Firewood Business?

Writing a comprehensive business plan for your firewood venture can seem daunting, but breaking it down into manageable sections can make the process more manageable. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you create a winning firewood business plan:

Executive Summary:

Company overview:, market analysis:.

• Industry overview and trends
• Target market segmentation and demographics
• Competitor analysis and differentiation strategies
• Market size and growth potential

Products and Services:

• Types of firewood (hardwood, softwood, seasoned, kiln-dried, etc.)
• Packaging and delivery options
• Pricing strategy and competitive positioning
• Future product or service line expansions

Operations Plan:

• Wood sourcing and procurement methods
• Processing and seasoning procedures
• Equipment and facility requirements
• Inventory management and quality control
• Transportation and delivery logistics

Marketing and Sales Plan:

• Target market segmentation and positioning
• Marketing channels (online, print, events, etc.)
• Sales strategies and distribution channels
• Pricing and promotional tactics
• Customer service and retention strategies

Management and Organization:

Financial projections:.

• Income statements (revenue, expenses, and profitability projections)
• Balance sheets (assets, liabilities, and equity)
• Cash flow projections
• Break-even analysis
• Sensitivity analysis and risk assessment

Common Challenges for New Firewood Businesses

Starting a firewood business can be challenging, and it’s important to be aware of potential obstacles to prepare for and mitigate them. Here are some common challenges that new firewood businesses may face:

• Seasonality: The demand for firewood is typically higher during the colder months, which can lead to fluctuations in sales and cash flow. Proper planning and inventory management are crucial to navigate this seasonal nature of the business.
• Competition: The firewood market can be highly competitive, especially in areas with established suppliers. Differentiating your products and services, offering competitive pricing, and providing exceptional customer service are essential to gaining a foothold in the market.
• Sourcing and Processing: Securing a reliable and cost-effective supply of firewood can be challenging, especially if you’re starting with limited resources. Developing strong relationships with suppliers and investing in efficient processing equipment can help mitigate this challenge.
• Regulatory Compliance: Depending on your location, you may need to obtain permits, licenses, or certifications related to forestry, transportation, or environmental regulations. Staying informed and compliant with relevant laws and regulations is crucial.
• Cash Flow Management: Like many small businesses, managing cash flow can be a challenge, especially during the startup phase or slow seasons. Proper financial planning, forecasting, and cost control measures are essential for maintaining a healthy cash flow.
• Marketing and Branding: Building brand awareness and attracting customers in a crowded market can be difficult for new firewood businesses. Developing a strong marketing strategy, leveraging digital channels, and establishing a unique brand identity can help you stand out.

By anticipating and proactively addressing these challenges, you can increase your chances of success in the firewood business.

The Quickest Way to turn a Business Idea into a Business Plan

Fill-in-the-blanks and automatic financials make it easy.

Creating a comprehensive firewood business plan is an essential first step towards building a successful and sustainable firewood venture. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you’ll be well-equipped to develop a compelling plan that addresses all aspects of your business, from market analysis and operations to marketing strategies and financial projections.

Remember, your business plan is a living document that should be regularly reviewed and updated as your firewood business grows and evolves. Embrace challenges as opportunities for growth, and stay adaptable to changing market conditions and customer needs.

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Frequently asked questions, what is the simple way to create my firewood business plan.

Creating a firewood business plan is straightforward with the right approach. Break it into sections like executive summary, market analysis, operations, and financials. Use clear language and realistic projections.

Is Firewood a Good Business to Start?

Yes, a firewood business can be a profitable venture. It has low startup costs, meets evergreen heating demand, offers recurring revenue, and is eco-friendly. Thorough planning and marketing are key to success.

Is Selling Firewood a Good Side Hustle?

Selling firewood makes an excellent side hustle. It requires minimal investment, offers flexibility, and can generate steady income during peak seasons. Understanding regulations and effective marketing are crucial.

How Do You Start a Firewood Business?

To start a firewood business, follow these steps: research your market, create a business plan, secure funding, obtain permits, source wood and equipment, implement marketing strategies, and adapt to customer feedback.

About the Author

Upmetrics Team

Upmetrics is the #1 business planning software that helps entrepreneurs and business owners create investment-ready business plans using AI. We regularly share business planning insights on our blog. Check out the Upmetrics blog for such interesting reads. Read more

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How to Start a Firewood Business

Back to All Business Ideas

Written by: Esther Strauss

Esther is a business strategist with over 20 years of experience as an entrepreneur, executive, educator, and management advisor.

Edited by: David Lepeska

David has been writing and learning about business, finance and globalization for a quarter-century, starting with a small New York consulting firm in the 1990s.

Published on May 7, 2021 Updated on June 24, 2024

Investment range

$6,050 - $13,100

Revenue potential

$80,000 - $230,000 p.a.

Time to build

1 - 3 months

Profit potential

$40,000 - $90,000 p.a.

Industry trend

Firewood has many uses in America. People use it when they go camping and for their fireplaces, grills, and bonfires. So if there is significant demand for firewood in your area, becoming a firewood dealer could be a lucrative opportunity.  

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about starting a firewood business. From understanding the industry, all the way to hiring your first employee, we’ll leave no stone unturned. 

Let’s get started!

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Form your business immediately using ZenBusiness LLC formation service or hire one of the Best LLC Services .

Step 1: Decide if the Business Is Right for You

Before you start your firewood business, it’s a good idea to understand the industry as a whole so you can find the best opportunities. 

Pros and cons

To gain a balanced view of the firewood industry, you should consider both the pros and cons.

• Simple business model — sell wood for money
• Steady demand in many areas
• You’re the boss — work full or part-time
• Demand is low in some areas
• Preparing the wood can be labor-intensive
• Danger of sharp tools and machinery

Firewood industry trends

About 2% of US homes rely on wood for heating, according to the US Census Bureau (( https://www.census.gov/library/stories/2018/02/who-knew-wood-burning-fuel.html )). While this may seem like a small amount, in some US counties as much as 60% of homes are heated by a wood stove. Also, many other homes have fireplaces, and a good number of people and restaurants use wood for grilling and cooking. 

Industry size and growth

• Industry size and past growth – The US firewood industry took in $100 million in 2021(( https://www.marketresearch.com/Kentley-Insights-v4035/Firewood-Dealers-Research-Updated-COVID-30129805/ )), a decline from the previous year although it grew around 5% over the three years to 2019.(( https://www.marketresearch.com/Kentley-Insights-v4035/Firewood-Dealers-Research-12938966/ ))
• Number of businesses – There are around 200 firewood retailers in the US.

Trends and challenges

The latest industry trends include:

• Oil price spike causes surge in demand for firewood
• Soaring prices due to strong demand

Some challenges faced by the industry are:

• Supply chain problems
• Environmental problems

Consumer spending

• Potential customer base – The US Energy Information Administration estimates that 1.7 million households used firewood or wood pellets as primary heating source in 2021, while 8% of the US population used wood as secondary heating source.(( https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2021-11-20/americans-load-up-on-firewood-as-home-heating-costs-skyrocket ))
• Average prices – A cord of seasoned firewood was sold for $200 to $475 in 2021.

How much does it cost to start a firewood business?

Starting a firewood business will likely cost between $8,500 and $60,000, with an average upfront investment of $30,000. 

Your costs will vary depending on the brand and condition of the equipment you buy. But here’s an estimated cost breakdown for starting a firewood business, excluding the cost of a production facility:

How much can you earn from a firewood business?

A cord is a stack of firewood measuring 128 cubic feet, or about 4 feet high, 4 feet wide, and 8 feet long. On average, a cord of ready-to-burn hardwood sells for $120 to $180, depending on your location and the wood quality. In some areas, when demand is high, a cord can be sold for as much as $400. So you’ll need to do some research to see what you can expect in your local area. 

In your first year or two, you could work from home and sell 10 cords a week at $150 each,  bringing in almost $80,000 in annual revenue. This would mean $40,000 in profit, assuming a 50% margin. As your brand gains recognition, sales could climb to 30 cords a week. At this stage, you’d rent a commercial space and hire staff, reducing your profit margin to around 40%. With annual revenue of around $230,000, you’d make a tidy profit of more than  $90,000.

You could also sell firewood bundles which are much smaller—about 0.75 cubic feet. This will involve more work to wrap and deliver, but you can also charge more for your firewood. 

What barriers to entry are there?

Like many industries, there are a few barriers to overcome when selling firewood: 

• Obtaining inventory
• License to cut trees 
• Low local demand

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Step 2: hone your idea.

Now that you’ve learned a bit more about the industry, it’s time to start brainstorming the details of your business. 

Market research will give you the upper hand, even if you’re already positive that you have a perfect product or service. Conducting market research is important, because it can help you understand your customers better, who your competitors are, and your business landscape.

Why? Identify an opportunity

Your competition will depend on who you decide to supply with firewood. If you want to sell directly to the public, then your competition could be grocery stores and other local wood sellers. 

If you want to supply grocery stores and convenience stores, then your competition will be other firewood wholesalers. 

Once you figure out who your competition will be, it’s time to do some research. Find out information such as the quality and type of firewood they sell, how much they charge, and who their main customers are. 

Knowing this information will help you find gaps in the market, improve your customer targeting and create a better brand. 

What? Select your firewood type and specialties

In general, starting a firewood business is already quite a niche market. But there may be options to specialize further depending on local demand. 

One of these ways is by selling kiln-dried firewood. This is a way to treat your firewood that ensures it’s free from insects and improves the firewood quality. One major benefit of this niche is that it’ll be easier for you to sell your firewood outside of your state because your wood could not lead to insect infestation. 

You could also specialize in the type of wood you sell, such as maple, oak, ash, and birch.

Above all, choosing a niche will help you build a brand identity and help you market your business. 

How much should you charge for firewood?

How much you charge will depend on the quality, type, and quantity of split firewood you sell at one time. Since the price of a cord of firewood can range from $120 – $400, it’s hard to give you a definite number.

Another factor to consider is delivery fees. You could offer free delivery and price the difference into your product or add a fee depending on the distance. The choice is yours. 

You’ll need to determine an acceptable average price for your local market and then tweak it based on the costs to produce your firewood. 

Once you know your costs, you can use this Step By Step profit margin calculator to determine your mark-up and final price points. Remember, the prices you use at launch should be subject to change if warranted by the market.

Who? Identify your target market

Once you’ve got a niche, you can start thinking about who your ideal target market will be. If you live in a small town , though, this might not be possible due to a lower population, so you’ll have to service multiple types of customers. 

But to give you an idea of the different firewood markets, here is a list: 

• Grocery stores – You can wholesale your seasoned firewood to local grocery stores. While you’ll need to sell your wood at a lower price, you’ll be able to make up the difference through sheer volume. 
• People who use wood for heating – These customers may require large amounts of wood since they’ll be using their stove daily. 
• Casual users – These may be people who want to make a backyard fire on the weekend, campers, or people who want to hang out at the beach for a night.

By having a target market, you can focus your marketing and branding towards them specifically.

In turn, this will help increase your conversions and customer satisfaction. 

Where? Choose your business premises

You’ll want a business location that has enough space for storage and processing, yet is also close to your customers. 

In the early stages, you may want to run your business from home to keep costs low, but make sure that your property is suitable. As your business grows, you’ll likely need to hire workers for various roles and may need to rent out a production facility. You can find commercial space to rent in your area on sites such as Craigslist , Crexi , and Instant Offices .

When choosing a commercial space, you may want to follow these rules of thumb:

• Central location accessible via public transport
• Ventilated and spacious, with good natural light
• Flexible lease that can be extended as your business grows
• Ready-to-use space with no major renovations or repairs needed

Step 3: Brainstorm a Firewood Business Name

Here are some ideas for brainstorming your business name:

• Short, unique, and catchy names tend to stand out
• Names that are easy to say and spell tend to do better 
• The name should be relevant to your product or service offerings
• Ask around — family, friends, colleagues, social media — for suggestions
• Including keywords, such as “wood” or “fire”, boosts SEO
• Choose a name that allows for expansion: “Reliable Firewood Supply” over “Camping Firewood” or “BBQ Wood Supply”
• A location-based name can help establish a strong connection with your local community and help with the SEO but might hinder future expansion

Discover over 240 unique firewood company name ideas here. If you want your business name to include specific keywords, you can also use our firewood business name generator. Just type in a few keywords and hit “generate” and you’ll have dozens of suggestions at your fingertips.

Once you’ve got a list of potential names, visit the website of the US Patent and Trademark Office to make sure they are available for registration and check the availability of related domain names using our Domain Name Search tool. Using “.com” or “.org” sharply increases credibility, so it’s best to focus on these. 

Find a Domain

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Finally, make your choice among the names that pass this screening and go ahead with domain registration and social media account creation. Your business name is one of the key differentiators that set your business apart. Once you pick your company name, and start with the branding, it is hard to change the business name. Therefore, it’s important to carefully consider your choice before you start a business entity.

Step 4: Create a Firewood Business Plan

Here are the key components of a business plan:

• Executive Summary: A brief overview of the entire firewood business plan, summarizing key points and goals.
• Business Overview: Detailed information about the firewood business, including its mission, vision, and the problem it aims to solve in the market.
• Product and Services: Clear descriptions of the types of firewood and related services offered, emphasizing quality and customer satisfaction.
• Market Analysis: A comprehensive examination of the firewood market, including target customers, trends, and potential growth opportunities.
• Competitive Analysis: Evaluation of competitors in the firewood industry, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and strategies to gain a competitive edge.
• Sales and Marketing: Detailed plans for promoting and selling firewood, encompassing pricing strategies, distribution channels, and marketing campaigns.
• Management Team: Introductions to the key individuals leading the firewood business, emphasizing their qualifications and relevant experience.
• Operations Plan: An outline of the day-to-day processes involved in sourcing, processing, and delivering firewood, ensuring efficiency and quality control.
• Financial Plan: Projections of revenue, expenses, and profitability, providing a clear financial roadmap for the firewood business.
• Appendix: Supplementary materials, such as additional data, charts, or supporting documents, providing extra context and detail to strengthen the business plan.

If you’ve never created a business plan, it can be an intimidating task. You might consider hiring a business plan specialist to create a top-notch business plan for you.

Step 5: Register Your Business

Registering your business is an absolutely crucial step — it’s the prerequisite to paying taxes, raising capital, opening a bank account, and other guideposts on the road to getting a business up and running.

Plus, registration is exciting because it makes the entire process official. Once it’s complete, you’ll have your own business! 

Choose where to register your company

Your business location is important because it can affect taxes, legal requirements, and revenue. Most people will register their business in the state where they live, but if you are planning to expand, you might consider looking elsewhere, as some states offer real advantages when it comes to firewood. 

If you’re willing to move, you could really maximize your business! Keep in mind, it’s relatively easy to transfer your business to another state. 

Choose your business structure

Business entities come in several varieties, each with its pros and cons. The legal structure you choose for your firewood business will shape your taxes, personal liability, and business registration requirements, so choose wisely. 

Here are the main options:

• Sole Proprietorship – The most common structure for small businesses makes no legal distinction between company and owner. All income goes to the owner, who’s also liable for any debts, losses, or liabilities incurred by the business. The owner pays taxes on business income on his or her personal tax return.
• General Partnership – Similar to a sole proprietorship, but for two or more people. Again, owners keep the profits and are liable for losses. The partners pay taxes on their share of business income on their personal tax returns.
• Limited Liability Company (LLC) – Combines the characteristics of corporations with those of sole proprietorships or partnerships. Again, the owners are not personally liable for debts.
• C Corp – Under this structure, the business is a distinct legal entity and the owner or owners are not personally liable for its debts. Owners take profits through shareholder dividends, rather than directly. The corporation pays taxes, and owners pay taxes on their dividends, which is sometimes referred to as double taxation.
• S Corp – An S-Corporation refers to the tax classification of the business but is not a business entity. An S-Corp can be either a corporation or an LLC , which just needs to elect to be an S-Corp for tax status. In an S-Corp, income is passed through directly to shareholders, who pay taxes on their share of business income on their personal tax returns.

We recommend that new business owners choose LLC as it offers liability protection and pass-through taxation while being simpler to form than a corporation. You can form an LLC in as little as five minutes using an online LLC formation service. They will check that your business name is available before filing, submit your articles of organization , and answer any questions you might have.

Form Your LLC

Choose Your State

We recommend ZenBusiness as the Best LLC Service for 2024

Step 6: Register for Taxes

The final step before you’re able to pay taxes is getting an Employer Identification Number , or EIN. You can file for your EIN online or by mail or fax: visit the IRS website to learn more. Keep in mind, if you’ve chosen to be a sole proprietorship you can simply use your social security number as your EIN. 

Once you have your EIN, you’ll need to choose your tax year. Financially speaking, your business will operate in a calendar year (January–December) or a fiscal year, a 12-month period that can start in any month. This will determine your tax cycle, while your business structure will determine which taxes you’ll pay.

The IRS website also offers a tax-payers checklist , and taxes can be filed online.

It is important to consult an accountant or other professional to help you with your taxes to ensure you are completing them correctly.

Step 7: Fund your Business

Securing financing is your next step and there are plenty of ways to raise capital:

• Bank loans : This is the most common method, but getting approved requires a rock-solid business plan and strong credit history.
• SBA-guaranteed loans : The Small Business Administration can act as guarantor, helping gain that elusive bank approval via an SBA-guaranteed loan .
• Government grants : A handful of financial assistance programs help fund entrepreneurs. Visit Grants.gov to learn which might work for you.
• Venture capital : Offer potential investors an ownership stake in exchange for funds, keeping in mind that you would be sacrificing some control over your business.
• Friends and Family: Reach out to friends and family to provide a business loan or investment in your concept. It’s a good idea to have legal advice when doing so because SEC regulations apply.
• Crowdfunding: Websites like Kickstarter and Indiegogo offer an increasingly popular low-risk option, in which donors fund your vision. Entrepreneurial crowdfunding sites like Fundable and WeFunder enable multiple investors to fund your business.
• Personal: Self-fund your business via your savings or the sale of property or other assets.

Bank and SBA loans are probably the best option, other than friends and family, for funding a firewood business. You might also try crowdfunding if you have an innovative concept. 

Step 8: Apply for Firewood Business Licenses and Permits

Starting a firewood business requires obtaining a number of licenses and permits from local, state, and federal governments. 

Federal regulations, licenses, and permits associated with starting your business include doing business as (DBA), health licenses and permits from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration ( OSHA ), trademarks, copyrights, patents, and other intellectual properties, as well as industry-specific licenses and permits. 

You may also need state-level and local county or city-based licenses and permits such as a seller’s permit and a firewood cutting permit if you cut trees on public land. The license requirements and how to obtain them vary, so check the websites of your state, city, and county governments or contact the appropriate person to learn more. 

You could also check this SBA guide for your state’s requirements, but we recommend using MyCorporation’s Business License Compliance Package . They will research the exact forms you need for your business and state and provide them to ensure you’re fully compliant.

This is not a step to be taken lightly, as failing to comply with legal requirements can result in hefty penalties.

If you feel overwhelmed by this step or don’t know how to begin, it might be a good idea to hire a professional to help you check all the legal boxes.

Step 9: Open a Business Bank Account

Before you start making money you’ll need a place to keep it, and that requires opening a bank account .

Keeping your business finances separate from your personal account makes it easy to file taxes and track your company’s income, so it’s worth doing even if you’re running your firewood business as a sole proprietorship. Opening a business bank account is quite simple, and similar to opening a personal one. Most major banks offer accounts tailored for businesses — just inquire at your preferred bank to learn about their rates and features.

Banks vary in terms of offerings, so it’s a good idea to examine your options and select the best plan for you. Once you choose your bank, bring in your EIN (or Social Security Number if you decide on a sole proprietorship), articles of incorporation, and other legal documents and open your new account.

Step 10: Get Business Insurance

Business insurance is an area that often gets overlooked yet it can be vital to your success as an entrepreneur. Insurance protects you from unexpected events that can have a devastating impact on your business.

Here are some types of insurance to consider:

• General liability : The most comprehensive type of insurance, acting as a catch-all for many business elements that require coverage. If you get just one kind of insurance, this is it. It even protects against bodily injury and property damage.
• Business Property : Provides coverage for your equipment and supplies.
• Equipment Breakdown Insurance : Covers the cost of replacing or repairing equipment that has broken due to mechanical issues.
• Worker’s compensation : Provides compensation to employees injured on the job.
• Property : Covers your physical space, whether it is a cart, storefront, or office.
• Commercial auto : Protection for your company-owned vehicle.
• Professional liability : Protects against claims from a client who says they suffered a loss due to an error or omission in your work.
• Business owner’s policy (BOP) : This is an insurance plan that acts as an all-in-one insurance policy, a combination of any of the above insurance types.

Step 11: Prepare to Launch

As opening day nears, prepare for launch by reviewing and improving some key elements of your business. 

Essential software and tools

Being an entrepreneur often means wearing many hats, from marketing to sales to accounting, which can be overwhelming. Fortunately, many websites and digital tools are available to help simplify many business tasks.  

You may want to use industry-specific software, such as  GoCanvas and Arborgold to track sales and manage your business.

• Popular web-based accounting programs for smaller businesses include Quickbooks , Freshbooks , and Xero . 
• If you’re unfamiliar with basic accounting, you may want to hire a professional, especially as you begin. The consequences for filing incorrect tax documents can be harsh, so accuracy is crucial.

Develop your website

Website development is crucial because your site is your online presence and needs to convince prospective clients of your expertise and professionalism.

You can create your own website using website builders . This route is very affordable, but figuring out how to build a website can be time-consuming. If you lack tech-savvy, you can hire a web designer or developer to create a custom website for your business.

They are unlikely to find your website, however, unless you follow Search Engine Optimization ( SEO ) practices. These are steps that help pages rank higher in the results of top search engines like Google. 

Here are some powerful marketing strategies for your future business:

• Professional Branding — Ensure your branding conveys warmth, reliability, and eco-friendliness, which should be reflected in your logo, website, and marketing materials.
• Website & SEO — Develop a comprehensive website that details your products, delivery options, and sustainable practices, optimized for searches related to firewood sales and delivery.
• Direct Outreach — Engage with local businesses, community groups, and potential customers at farmers’ markets, local events, and trade shows to raise awareness of your services.
• Social Media Engagement — Use Facebook for community engagement and Instagram to showcase your products and share stories of satisfied customers.
• Content Marketing — Maintain a firewood blog that provides valuable information on the best types of wood, firewood storage tips, and the benefits of sustainable firewood.
• Customer Testimonials — Share stories and reviews from satisfied customers to build trust and highlight the quality of your products.
• Educational Videos — Produce videos demonstrating the proper use and storage of firewood, enhancing customer knowledge and engagement.
• Local Business Networking — Partner with local campgrounds, barbecue restaurants, and retail stores to broaden your customer base.
• Environmental Partnerships — Collaborate with local forestry services and environmental groups to promote sustainable firewood usage and responsible forest management.
• Loyalty and Rewards Programs — Offer customized firewood packages and implement a loyalty program for repeat customers, providing discounts or special offers to encourage ongoing business relationships.

Focus on USPs

Unique selling propositions, or USPs, are the characteristics of a product or service that set it apart from the competition. Customers today are inundated with buying options, so you’ll have a real advantage if they are able to quickly grasp how your firewood meets their needs or wishes. It’s wise to do all you can to ensure your USPs stand out on your website and in your marketing and promotional materials, stimulating buyer desire. 

Global pizza chain Domino’s is renowned for its USP: “Hot pizza in 30 minutes or less, guaranteed.” Some signature USPs for your firewood business could be:

• The best ash and maple around
• Fastest firewood delivery service 
• Big discounts for bulk orders 
• Subscription service for weekly/monthly deliveries 

You may not like to network or use personal connections for business gain. But your personal and professional networks likely offer considerable untapped business potential. Maybe that Facebook friend you met in college is now running a firewood business, or a LinkedIn contact of yours is connected to dozens of potential clients. Maybe your cousin or neighbor has been working in logging for years and can offer invaluable insight and industry connections. 

The possibilities are endless, so it’s a good idea to review your personal and professional networks and reach out to those with possible links to or interest in firewood. You’ll probably generate new customers or find companies with which you could establish a partnership. Online businesses might also consider affiliate marketing as a way to build relationships with potential partners and boost business.

Step 12: Build Your Team

If you’re starting out small from a home office, you may not need any employees. But as your business grows, you will likely need workers to fill various roles. Potential positions for a firewood business would include:

• General labor – stacks and packs firewood
• Driver – delivers firewood to customers
• Marketing Lead – generates new clients

At some point, you may need to hire all of these positions or simply a few, depending on the size and needs of your business. You might also hire multiple workers for a single role or a single worker for multiple roles, again depending on need. 

Free-of-charge methods to recruit employees include posting ads on popular platforms such as LinkedIn, Facebook, or Jobs.com. You might also consider a premium recruitment option, such as advertising on Indeed , Glassdoor , or ZipRecruiter . Further, if you have the resources, you could consider hiring a recruitment agency to help you find talent. 

Step 13: Run a Firewood Business – Start Making Money!

You’re now ready to start your entrepreneurial journey with your firewood business. Firewood should be easy to sell because most people need it, especially during cold days and nights. But you might expect a few bumps in the road in your first year or two, while you’re still learning the ropes and building up your business. 

It’s important that you go the extra mile for your customers to develop a good business reputation and inspire customer loyalty. You’ll get new customers too without having to spend more on advertising and marketing. 

• Firewood Business FAQs

To price firewood, research local market rates and consider your costs for harvesting and delivery. Set a competitive price that covers your expenses and allows for a profit, adjusting as needed based on market conditions.

Generally speaking, the best types of firewood would be hardwoods due to their burning qualities. Hardwoods burn hotter and longer than other types of wood, which will naturally make your customers happier.

The short answer is yes. If there is demand in your area, you are willing to put in the work to sell a quality product, and you take care of your customers, you will be able to make money.

Selling firewood can be profitable, particularly if you have a reliable source of wood and a strong customer base. Profitability depends on factors such as the cost of acquiring or harvesting wood, processing and storing it, and the local demand and pricing for firewood. 

Firewood can be a good side business, especially if you have access to a consistent supply of wood and a market for firewood in your area. It can provide an additional income stream with relatively low startup costs. 

The fastest-growing wood species for firewood depend on various factors such as climate, soil conditions, and local availability. Some fast-growing options include hybrid poplar, willow, and eucalyptus. 

The best wood size for burning depends on the intended use and appliance. Generally, firewood is cut into lengths of 12 to 16 inches (30 to 40 cm) for residential heating purposes. However, larger sizes may be required for commercial or industrial applications.

Firewood can indeed become too dry, which can affect its burning characteristics. Extremely dry wood may burn too quickly, producing excess heat or causing the fire to burn out faster. It’s ideal to store firewood in a well-ventilated area to allow some moisture content to remain, which helps with combustion and heat output.

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• Decide if the Business Is Right for You
• Hone Your Idea
• Brainstorm a Firewood Business Name
• Create a Firewood Business Plan
• Register Your Business
• Register for Taxes
• Fund your Business
• Apply for Firewood Business Licenses and Permits
• Open a Business Bank Account
• Get Business Insurance
• Prepare to Launch
• Build Your Team
• Run a Firewood Business - Start Making Money!

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How to Start a Firewood Business in 14 Steps (In-Depth Guide)

Updated:   February 21, 2024

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Building a successful firewood business depends on your location, resources, and demand for wood.

If you are living in a city, you probably won’t be selling firewood to people living in condos and homes built on electric heat. Starting a firewood business in a place where people use wood-burning stoves, fireplaces, backyard fire pits, and campgrounds are plentiful is a good indicator that there will be a market to move your product.

Firewood Dealers 2022 Market Research Report published by Kentley Insights on MarketResearch.com states the 2021 industry total revenue was $.1 billion, and the average sales per location were $0.8 million. 

In this article, we will provide you with a road map for analyzing the firewood industry, local markets, equipment costs, and licensing requirements to identifying your target customer and more.

1. Conduct Firewood Business Market Research

If you want to be your own boss and start a firewood business, the first thing you will want to do is educate yourself on the industry and perform market research to create a business plan. Here are some Important data points you can start collecting:

• Target customer
• Locations to distribute and sell your firewood 
• Current market trends/price evaluation
• Competitors
• Local firewood prices
• Local resources (Timberland, logging companies, raw wood suppliers, etc.)
• Cost of equipment
• Sourcing Wood/Obtaining inventory(cut trees, unusable wood from lumber facilities,

Take note of current prices, suppliers that sell the most firewood, and regional data. Search websites for statistics, market size and projections.

2. Analyze the Competition

Start analyzing the competition by finding out who supplies firewood in your region. Assess pricing from small business models, wholesalers, and mass distributors. Perform a regional analysis online by looking for firewood sellers on  Logsplitters.com , Yellowpages, Craigslist, Facebook, community bulletins, and more. 

Here are some questions to help you understand the opportunity and gaps in the market.

Is the firewood market declining or growing?

What is the forecast over the next 4-8 years?

Who are the main firewood suppliers at brick-and-mortar stores?

What type of firewood businesses are around you? (Mass distributors and small businesses)

Who is the target customer in your local region? (Residential, Commercial, Recreational, campers, etc.)

What is the average price for firewood bundles or a face cord in your region?

What does the profit margin look like?

The demand for wood surges during cold seasons, so you will need to factor in that sales will dwindle in warm weather. In some areas, a cord of firewood can be sold for $400, so you will need to do some research to see what you can expect in your local area. 

Let’s say there is a local business selling cords of firewood for $250 and they sell an average of 35 cords of wood during cold months which equates to about $8,750 a month. 

It takes about $80 to produce that single cord of wood. So after labor and equipment is accounted for their net profit is $5,950.

3. Understand Costs to Open a Firewood Business

Starting a firewood business requires an initial capital investment to purchase equipment, establish an entity and get a business license and permits. You will also have ongoing expenses for insurance, equipment maintenance, and marketing.

What Does it Cost to Open a Firewood Business?

You can get a small local firewood business launched with $8k to cover the bare minimum for basic equipment, log splitter, truck or trailer, business license, permit, and insurance. The prices of equipment vary, so if you plan on purchasing commercial equipment to streamline inventory production and purchase a large quantity of trees from a logger or timberland, plus business licenses and insurance, you can expect to pay upwards of $80k.

Business Equipment/Materials

Here is an example of start up costs you can expect:

Purchasing or renting equipment:

• Chainsaws ($500 – $1,500)

• Hydraulic wood splitter ($2,000- $30,000)

• Axes ($30-$100)

• Personal Protective Equipement ($80-$250)

• Heavy duty trailer for hauling wood ($1,800 – $7,000)

• Pallets for wood storage (200 @$10 a piece = $2,000)

• Storage – Rent a storage unit or container ($100 – $300/monthly)

• Raw timber costs if purchasing from logging company ($800-$2000 annually)

• Tree Cutting License and selling permit ($100-$300)

• Business Insurance ($100-$250/monthly)

• Entity formation fee ($100- $250)

Cost of Renting or Building a Dry Storage Area

When processing firewood, you will need a covered storage area. You may want to rent a storage unit or build a covered area on your property to cure green wood and keep your split wood inventory dry. The cost to rent a large storage unit averages $100-$300 a month, depending on the location. An alternative is to build a covered area on your property which could cost you anywhere between $800 – $3,000.

Business Formation

To start a business, you need to file your business formation paperwork with the state you are operating in and get the licensing or permits needed to harvest timber and sell to local retailers. Each state and county may have its own set of laws, so you will need to research the requirements based on your region. The cost to form an LLC typically runs about $60 – $400, which is pretty inexpensive and protects the owners from business-related lawsuits and certain debts.

Business Insurance

Your firewood business will also need business insurance and liability coverage to  protect you from unexpected events or impacts on your business. The cost of insurance will vary based of the size, and number of employees.

Here are the types of insurance you should consider:

General liability – This is the most comprehensive type of insurance that can be an umbrella for your business to protect you in case of injury, property damage, or disaster. ($65 monthly)

Equipment Rental Insurance – If you are renting equipment for your business there may be a ongoing rental insurance fees to protect against damages. (Range $40-$300)

Auto insurance – The company vehicle used to transport wood will need to be insured. (Range $90 – $300 monthly)

Workers’ compensation – If you have employees, this is critical to protect the business in case an employee is injured on the job. ($100 monthly)

Business owner’s policy – Can act as an all-in-one insurance policy for coverage on property, equipment, supplies, bodily injury, etc. ($100 monthly)

Firewood Processor Utilities

Since a firewood business does not operate out of one physical location, you won’t have to worry about monthly utility bills. However you do need to budget in utilities needed for cutting firewood and the fuel needed to operate machinery.

What Are the Ongoing Costs of Firewood Business?

Prepare yourself for monthly payments for insurance, service fees, equipment maintenance, repairs, and wood delivery or transportation costs. Due to the influx in demand for firewood in the cool weather seasons, your costs will be greater during peak seasons, and so will your profits. It can be helpful to segment your projected monthly costs by season to account for the influx.

4. Form a Legal Business Entity

You will need to form a legal business entity to start selling firewood. You will have a few options to choose from; however a limited liability company (LLC) is the best choice for this kind of business, and we will explain why below.  Other options are sole proprietorship, partnership, or corporation. A corporation is the least likely choice unless you’re going really big.

Limited Liability Corporation (LLC)

An LLC is highly recommended for a firewood business because it offers the kind of liability protection that a corporation has, with the separation of personal and business assets. This will protect you as a business owner from business-related lawsuits and certain debts. It also provides flexibility for expansion, partnership, and hiring employees. 

Sole Proprietorship 

A sole proprietorship means the business owner is personally liable, which is an important consideration should anything happen to the business. This type of business structure will hold you responsible for debt and liability, putting your personal assets at risk. Operating a firewood business is a high-risk job and is dangerous work. If someone were to be injured or you were to be sued, it could ruin your business and cause you to go bankrupt.

Partnership

A partnership means there are multiple owners who share the responsibilities, which may sound nice if you are going into business with a friend or family member. However, the downside is that you and your partners will be held accountable, and it puts your personal assets at risk. You don’t get the option to separate your assets like you would with an LLC, so if you were sued, you and your partner may end up occurring unexpected debts. 

Corporation

Corporations are structured for large companies. A corporation protects all entities’ personal finances from being touched in case of debt or legal issues that arise with the business. However, establishing a corporation is not necessary for a firewood business and is an expensive, time-consuming process. 

5. Register Your Business For Taxes

To legally operate your firewood business, you will need to procure an employer identification number (EIN) from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). Doing so registers your business with the government to collect taxes. You may also have to apply for a separate tax ID number to sell products and collect or remit sales tax in certain states.  

6. Setup Your Accounting For Success

When you start a business, you need to document all expenses yourself or hire an accountant to help keep track of business finances. You will need to keep detailed records of all costs, profits, and investments for legal and tax purposes. Here are some options to help:

Accounting Software

You can automate much of the accounting process with Quickbooks and integrate your business bank account and credit cards. This is a great option to keep track of your costs and manage your budget.

Find an Accountant

An accountant can help reduce your workload, improve your cash flow, and accurately document your expenses and profits. They can help your business avoid an audit and ensure all your deductions and out-of-pocket expenses are accounted for so you don’t miss out on extra money back in your wallet. You can hire an accountant just for tax season and get help with annual projections. 

Get a Business Bank Account

Something you need to do right away when starting a business is to get a separate business account set up. This will save you a headache by having all your business expenses on one account with no confusion and makes taxes and accounting much easier to manage. You will be able to review all your business costs and streamline your tax filing process.

Apply For a Business Credit Card

It is wise to set up a business credit card to keep separate your personal and business assets and keep a clean record of business expenses. Your business revenue will most likely be higher than your personal income, and your business credit limit will be higher than your personal limit. Your business credit limit will be based on several factors, potentially including your business revenue, the number of employees, and your personal credit score and credit history. Building a positive credit score for your firewood business will help you in the future with financing or increasing your line of credit.

7. Obtain Licenses and Permits

Before you start selling firewood, you need a general business license, and depending on your location, you may need special permits pertaining to harvesting timber and transporting firewood. It’s not as ‘simple’ as producing wood that will be used for roofing , housing, or fences .

The United States Department of Agriculture Forest Service requires permits for harvesting trees and selling firewood in some states. Check your local state and county laws, as rules vary between regions. If you need help finding the permits, you need to find local assistance here. 

In addition, to timber and forestry permits, some other essentials you will need to apply for include a sales tax permit and an Employer Identification Number.

8. Get Business Insurance

Your firewood business will also need insurance and general liability coverage to protect you from unexpected events or impacts on your business. The cost of insurance will vary based on the extent of coverage you choose, the number of employees, and the risk involved with your business. The right Insurance will also protect you in case someone decides to sue you for an event related to your firewood. Say a log drops on someone’s foot, or they get burned from starting a fire using your firewood. No matter what the claim is, it is better to always be protected so your company’s assets don’t go up in flames.

9. Create an Office Space

You will need to spend some time on administrative tasks, accounting, taxes, orders, and filing invoices. Having a designated work space for these tasks is helpful in staying organized. Here are a few ideas to consider.

Home Office

Having a home office is great for a small firewood business because you won’t need to spend that much time at a desk, and this choice will save you money. However, if you expand your business, or do the majority of the administrative work yourself, doing it at home might get old fast. 

Co-Working Office

If you have multiple employees or an accountant, you may want to consider a co-working arrangement. You can look up local office spaces for lease or co-working shared spaces on   WeWork  to establish an office for yourself or employees to keep work from interfering with home.

10. Source Your Equipment

To harvest trees for firewood, you are going to need some heavy-duty equipment. To save money when starting a business, you may want to start by renting equipment or buying used equipment and checking auction sites and marketplaces like Craigslist or Facebook. 

You can find new equipment, such as commercial log splitters on  Equipmenttrader.com  and  Ruggedmade.com . You can find a wide array of logging and forestry tools at  Woodmizer.com .

Used logging equipment can be found on  Ebay.com , Craigslist, and  Auctiontime.com .  

Some equipment may be more feasible and cost-effective to rent if you only need it for a limited time. You may consider renting heavy-duty equipment from places like  Unitedrentals.com ,  Idealrentall.com , or  Sunbeltrentals.com . Look up equipment rental places in your region. 

You may want to consider leasing equipment for producing large quantities of firewood in a short period of time. The cost of leasing a commercial log splitter may save you money. You will need to perform research to see if this option is available for you in your region. 

11. Establish Your Brand

Decide on your business name and then develop your brand identity. All marketing materials and your website should be consistent and include your brand colors, logo, and same font styles to keep all materials congruent for easy recognition. 

Get a Business Phone Number

Having a designated phone line for your business is important. Your business phone number should be published online for taking orders, customer service, etc.

Create a Logo & Brand Assets

You can get a nice logo crafted on the platform  Looka . Looka is an easy-to-use AI platform that will develop a beautiful logo for you. You will need to decide on a logo before you start developing your brand assets to keep congruency for familiarity.

Create Business Cards and Signage

Get business cards, signs, and posters made for your firewood business at  Vistaprint . Distribute your cards and posters around town where possible. Pass out your business cards at local events, put up posters around town, on bulletin boards, in outdoor supply stores, and in local grocery stores.

Purchase a Domain Name

To get a website, webpage, or service brochure online for your firewood business, you will need to purchase a domain and get it registered. You can search for available domains here at  Namecheap.com  and get started for as low as $12.

Build a Website

Having a website is important so people can look you up and find you. A website will make it easy for people to find information about your business service, prices, location, hours of operation, and to contact you. You can get a basic website set up quickly on a website builder platform, or If you are not a tech-savvy person, you can find someone to do this for you on  Fiverr  or other freelance work websites.

12. Join Associations and Groups

Get involved in the community and connect with groups online and in person. Participate in environmental meetings, community fire protection groups, forest or lumber business associations, etc. 

Local Associations

Look up state and county associations pertaining to timberland, forest health, and fire-safe community projects, and see if there are opportunities to get involved and network. 

Local Meetups

Timberland organizations, forest maintenance services, and other wood-related businesses and services may have local events or meetups. See if there are opportunities to participate. Another place to check out is  Meetup  to look for people or activities where you can network. 

Facebook Groups

All small businesses should join Facebook and build a Facebook page, especially a local firewood business. You can invite people to your page, post about your services, join local community groups, and even make wood bundles available for purchase on Facebook marketplace. This is a great platform to build and connect with community to organically grow your business. 

13. Focus on Marketing

Having a marketing plan is essential to grow your business and expand your reach. You will need to spend money to make money, and creating a marketing plan will be key to your roadmap for growth. Do some research on other firewood businesses in your area to see what kind of business models you are competing with and if/where they advertise. 

Ask Friends, Family, and Coworkers

When you start your business, ask your friends and family to help you spread the word. They can help you by posting about it on Facebook and putting up flyers around town. Friends and family can help you network and get your first customers. 

Digital Marketing Ideas

Since just about everyone has a smartphone, digital advertising is a great way to get noticed. Get your firewood business posted on local firewood supplier directories like  Logsplitters.com .

You can set up geo-targeted ads for the area you service or sell firewood in. Here are some places to consider advertising on:

• Recreational/camping websites

You could also put a blog on your website and post videos or content about your business and services for organic reach.

Traditional Marketing Ideas

You can get the word out to your local community about your business through traditional advertising methods such as:

• Mailbox flyers
• Community bulletin boards

Getting your name out by advertising in high-traffic areas can help build trust and show that you are a well-established brand or business. Sending mailbox flyers to homes with wood stoves is low-hanging fruit.

14.  Focus on the Customer

Chopping up wood is not all that is required to run a firewood business. Interacting with your customers and providing them with an easy way to order and communicate is important. If you sell directly to customers and are handling customer service yourself, make sure you post your business operating hours so your customers know when they can reach you.

Give your customers a reliable way to get in touch with you with a designated phone number for texting and calling and a business email such as Support (at) BUSINESSNAME.com If you have better customer service than your competitors you can win more business and procure more customers. 

Happy customers will lead to referrals and repeat business.

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January 26, 2024

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Table of contents, the ultimate guide to starting a firewood business.

• 13 May, 2024

Planning Your Firewood Business

Before diving into the world of firewood business, it’s essential to have a well-thought-out plan in place. This involves understanding the essential components of a business plan and identifying the target wood products for your venture.

Business Plan Essentials

A comprehensive business plan serves as a roadmap for your firewood business, guiding you through the various stages of development and growth. The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) offers a traditional business plan template that covers sections such as a description of the business, market analysis, financial projections, and more. This template can provide valuable guidance as you craft your own business plan to suit your specific needs. For more information, you can refer to the firewood business plan resource.

Your business plan should include details about your target market, competitive analysis, marketing strategies, operations, and financial projections. It is also crucial to consider factors such as permits, licenses, and firewood business insurance to protect your investment and comply with local regulations.

Identifying Target Wood Products

When starting a firewood business, it’s important to identify the target wood products you will be offering to your customers. Consider whether you will be selling logs or split wood, and whether you will focus on hardwood or softwood. Hardwood is often preferred by those with fireplaces, while softwood logs are sought after by campers and outdoor enthusiasts.

By understanding your target market and their specific needs, you can tailor your product selection to meet their demands. Market research and customer feedback can help you identify the most popular wood products in your area. This knowledge will guide your purchasing decisions and inventory management, ensuring you have the right wood products available for sale.

Remember, the quality of the wood is crucial for customer satisfaction. Ensure that the wood is properly seasoned and free from pests or disease. Proper storage and handling techniques are also important to maintain the quality of your wood products. For more information on firewood storage, refer to the section on seasoning and storage in the article.

By carefully planning your firewood business and identifying the target wood products, you can set a solid foundation for your venture. This will enable you to meet the needs of your customers and establish a successful and sustainable business.

Setting Up Your Firewood Operation

To start a successful firewood business, it is essential to set up your operation effectively. This involves acquiring the necessary equipment, selecting the right wood types, and ensuring proper seasoning and storage.

Required Equipment

Starting a firewood business requires specific equipment to efficiently process, store, and transport firewood. The necessary equipment includes:

Source: Skynova

When considering the heavy-duty firewood processing machine, Timberwolf’s TW Series log splitters, such as TW-2 and TW-3, are recommended options for those starting a firewood business. These log splitters offer durability, efficiency, and the ability to scale up with additional features like a manual log lift, table grate, and a 4-Way Wedge for enhanced performance. Timberwolf’s HD Series firewood splitters, including models like TW-2 HD, TW-3 HD, and TW-5 HD, are designed to cater to increasing demand and output more cords without additional labor. These splitters have a heavy-duty frame suitable for long periods of comfortable operation, ensuring longevity from one generation to the next.

Source: Timberwolf Equipment

Selecting Wood Types

Choosing the right wood types is crucial for your firewood business. Hardwood varieties such as oak, maple, hickory, and beech are popular choices due to their high energy content and long burn times. Softwood varieties like pine and fir are also commonly used and tend to be more readily available. It’s important to consider the local market demand and availability when selecting wood types for your business.

Seasoning and Storage

Proper seasoning and storage of firewood are essential to ensure it is dry and ready for use. Wood should be seasoned or dried for a minimum of six months to reduce its moisture content and improve its combustion efficiency. Seasoning can be achieved by stacking the firewood in a well-ventilated area, allowing air to circulate around the wood to facilitate drying. Drying racks should be used to elevate the firewood off the ground and prevent moisture absorption.

Once properly seasoned, firewood should be stored in a dry and covered area, protected from rain and snow. Tarps can be used to cover the stacked firewood and provide additional protection from the elements. This ensures that the firewood remains dry and ready for sale.

Keep in mind that properly seasoned and stored firewood not only improves its burn quality but also increases its value and customer satisfaction.

By setting up your firewood operation with the necessary equipment, selecting suitable wood types, and ensuring proper seasoning and storage techniques, you will be well-prepared to meet the demand for high-quality firewood. Remember to maintain your equipment regularly and stay up-to-date with industry best practices to ensure the continued success of your firewood business.

Marketing Your Firewood Business

To ensure the success of your firewood business, it’s crucial to develop effective marketing strategies that attract customers and promote brand awareness. In this section, we will explore three key marketing approaches: creating customer personas, differentiation strategies, and utilizing social media.

Creating Customer Personas

Understanding your target audience is essential for attracting customers to your firewood business. By creating customer personas based on market research and data, you can gain valuable insights into your customers’ preferences, needs, and behaviors. This information will help you tailor your marketing efforts to effectively reach and engage your target customers.

To create customer personas, consider factors such as demographics, interests, purchasing behavior, and pain points. For example, you may find that your target audience consists of camping enthusiasts who value sustainable practices and appreciate the convenience of kiln-dried firewood. By understanding their motivations and preferences, you can develop targeted marketing messages and promotions that resonate with this specific customer segment.

Differentiation Strategies

In a competitive market, it’s crucial to differentiate your firewood business from competitors. Offering unique products or services that stand out from the crowd will attract customers and help build brand loyalty. Consider innovative ideas such as offering bundled firewood packages, providing firewood delivery services, or specializing in rare or exotic wood types.

By providing something different and special that customers cannot easily find elsewhere, you create a compelling reason for them to choose your business over competitors. Highlight these unique selling propositions in your marketing materials, website, and social media platforms to generate customer interest and drive sales.

Utilizing Social Media

In today’s digital age, social media platforms provide a powerful tool for marketing your firewood business. Utilize platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter to reach a broad audience with a relatively low investment. Regularly update your business pages with engaging content, including high-quality images of your firewood products, tips for firewood storage and usage, and customer testimonials.

Interact with your followers by responding to their comments, messages, and inquiries promptly. Encourage satisfied customers to share their positive experiences on social media, as this can greatly enhance your brand’s visibility and reputation. Consider utilizing paid advertising options on social media platforms to target specific demographics, geographical areas, and interests, effectively reaching potential customers who may be interested in your firewood products.

By creating customer personas, implementing differentiation strategies, and utilizing social media effectively, you can effectively market your firewood business and attract customers. Remember to monitor the effectiveness of your marketing efforts by tracking metrics such as website traffic, social media engagement, and sales conversions. Continuously refine your marketing strategies based on customer feedback and market trends to ensure the ongoing success of your firewood business.

Building a Strong Brand Identity

Establishing a strong brand identity is crucial when starting a firewood business. A well-defined brand helps differentiate your business from competitors and creates a connection with your target audience. In this section, we will explore three key aspects of building a strong brand identity: brand messaging, visual identity, and consistent marketing.

Brand Messaging

Developing a clear and compelling brand message is essential for attracting customers to your firewood business. Your brand message should convey the unique value proposition of your business and communicate the benefits of choosing your firewood products. Consider the following when crafting your brand message:

• Define your mission: Clearly articulate the purpose and mission of your firewood business. What sets you apart from others in the market? How do you aim to serve your customers?
• Identify your target audience: Understand the needs, preferences, and pain points of your target audience. Tailor your brand message to resonate with them and address their specific concerns.
• Highlight your unique selling points: Identify the key strengths and differentiators of your firewood business. Is it the quality of your wood products, sustainable sourcing practices, or exceptional customer service? Emphasize these unique aspects in your brand message.

By crafting a compelling brand message, you can effectively communicate the value your firewood business brings to customers.

Visual Identity

Creating a visually appealing and consistent brand identity is essential for brand recognition and attracting customers. When designing your visual identity, consider the following elements:

• Logo: Develop a visually striking logo that represents your firewood business. The logo should be unique, memorable, and aligned with your brand values.
• Color palette: Choose a color palette that reflects the nature of your business. Earthy tones and warm colors often work well for firewood businesses, as they evoke a sense of warmth and coziness.
• Typography: Select fonts that are legible and align with your brand personality. Consider using a combination of fonts for different purposes, such as headings and body text.

Consistency is key when it comes to visual identity. Ensure that your logo, colors, and typography are used consistently across all marketing materials, including your website, social media profiles, and packaging.

Consistent Marketing

Consistency in your marketing efforts is crucial for building brand recognition and trust. Consistent marketing ensures that your firewood business stays top of mind for potential customers. Consider the following strategies:

• Social media presence: Utilize social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter to engage with your target audience. Regularly update your business pages with relevant content, such as tips for using firewood, seasonal promotions, and customer testimonials. Interact with followers by responding to comments and messages. Paid advertising options on social media can also help attract more customers ( LinkedIn ).
• Unique offerings: Differentiate your firewood business by offering unique products or services that set you apart from competitors ( LinkedIn ). For example, you could provide bundled firewood with firestarter kits or offer personalized delivery options.
• Customer personas: Develop customer personas based on market research and data. This helps you understand your target audience’s preferences, allowing you to tailor your marketing messages to their specific needs ( LinkedIn ).

By maintaining consistent and targeted marketing efforts, you can effectively promote your firewood business and attract customers.

Establishing a strong brand identity takes time and effort, but it is a crucial step in building a successful firewood business. By crafting a compelling brand message, creating a visually appealing identity, and consistently marketing your business, you can differentiate yourself in the market and attract customers who resonate with your brand values.

Providing Excellent Customer Service

In the competitive world of the firewood business, providing excellent customer service is paramount to attracting and retaining customers. By prioritizing exceptional service, you can build a positive reputation, encourage repeat business, and foster customer loyalty.

Training Employees

One of the key aspects of providing excellent customer service is training your employees to deliver friendly and helpful assistance. Investing in comprehensive training programs that focus on effective communication, problem-solving, and empathy can empower your employees to handle customer interactions with professionalism and care ( American Express ).

By equipping your employees with the necessary skills and knowledge, they can effectively address customer inquiries, provide accurate information about your firewood products, and offer personalized recommendations. Consistent training ensures that your team is well-prepared to handle various customer scenarios, enhancing overall customer satisfaction.

Resolving Customer Issues

Resolving customer issues promptly and effectively is essential for maintaining customer satisfaction and loyalty. When customers encounter problems or have concerns, it is crucial to address them in a timely manner. By actively listening to their concerns and finding solutions, you demonstrate your commitment to customer service and showcase your willingness to go above and beyond to meet their needs ( Forbes ).

Train your employees to handle customer complaints or issues with empathy and professionalism. Encourage them to actively listen, ask clarifying questions, and work collaboratively with the customer to find a resolution. By turning a negative experience into a positive one, you can build stronger relationships with your clientele and enhance your reputation.

Encouraging Customer Feedback

Actively seeking and valuing customer feedback is a valuable practice for any business. By encouraging customers to share their thoughts and experiences, you gain valuable insights into their preferences, identify areas for improvement, and build stronger relationships ( HubSpot ).

Provide multiple channels for customers to provide feedback, such as surveys, reviews, or open communication channels. Actively engage with their feedback, whether positive or negative, and use it to improve your products, services, and customer experience. Demonstrating that you value their input and taking action based on their feedback reinforces their trust in your business and shows your commitment to continuous improvement.

By training employees to deliver exceptional service, resolving customer issues promptly, and encouraging customer feedback, you can provide excellent customer service within your firewood business. These practices not only contribute to the overall satisfaction of your customers but also help build a positive reputation and foster long-term customer loyalty.

Scaling Your Firewood Business

As your firewood business grows, it’s important to scale up your operations to meet increasing demand. This involves investing in heavy-duty processing equipment, implementing efficient production techniques, and ensuring that you can keep up with the rising needs of your customers.

Heavy-Duty Processing Equipment

To effectively scale up and offer a firewood processing service, it is crucial to invest in heavy-duty processing equipment. This equipment should be capable of cutting and splitting wood with minimal manual handling. One recommended option for starting a firewood business is Timberwolf’s TW Series log splitters, such as TW-2 and TW-3. These log splitters offer durability, efficiency, and the ability to scale up with additional features like a manual log lift, table grate, and a 4-Way Wedge for enhanced performance ( Timberwolf Equipment ). By using such equipment, you can significantly increase your production capacity and reduce the physical strain on your employees.

For commercial use and to cater to even higher demand, Timberwolf’s Alpha Series Box Wedge log splitters are recommended. These log splitters feature a log lift, wedge lift, and the capability to equip with a Box Wedge and floating auto-retract arm. They provide easy one-man operations and increased efficiency for splitting wood ( Timberwolf Equipment ).

Investing in heavy-duty processing equipment ensures that you can handle larger volumes of wood, increase productivity, and meet the demands of your growing customer base.

Efficient Production Techniques

In addition to having the right equipment, implementing efficient production techniques is essential to scale your firewood business. Streamlining your processes can help you maximize productivity and reduce unnecessary time and labor costs.

One effective technique is to organize your work area and establish an efficient workflow. This includes having designated areas for different tasks such as cutting, splitting, and stacking. By optimizing the layout of your workspace, you can minimize movement and improve overall productivity.

Another technique is to batch process your wood. Instead of processing each log individually, consider grouping similar logs together and processing them in batches. This approach allows for faster and more efficient handling of the wood, saving time and increasing output.

Regular maintenance of your equipment is also crucial to ensure smooth operations and prevent unexpected breakdowns. Implement a maintenance schedule to inspect and service your machinery regularly, keeping it in optimal condition for reliable performance.

Meeting Increasing Demand

As your firewood business scales, meeting the increasing demand becomes a priority. Apart from having the right equipment and efficient production techniques, there are several strategies you can employ to manage and meet the growing needs of your customers.

One approach is to build a network of reliable suppliers. Establish relationships with local logging companies, tree service providers, and other sources of wood to ensure a steady supply. By having multiple suppliers, you can mitigate the risk of running out of stock during peak seasons.

Another strategy is to expand your storage capacity. As demand increases, you may need to store larger quantities of wood to meet customer orders promptly. Consider investing in additional storage facilities, such as covered sheds or warehouses, to accommodate the growing inventory.

Additionally, it’s important to continuously monitor market trends and customer preferences. Stay updated on the latest firewood business ideas and adapt your offerings accordingly. By understanding your target market and catering to their specific needs, you can stay ahead of the competition and ensure customer satisfaction.

Scaling your firewood business requires careful planning, investment in the right equipment, efficient production techniques, and a keen understanding of market demand. By following these strategies, you can successfully grow your business and meet the increasing needs of your customers.

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How To Start A Firewood Business In 5 Steps

Wondering how to start a firewood business but don't know where to start? We've put together a comprehensive guide to deciding whether you should start a firewood business, and a step-by-step action plan if you do.

Starting a Firewood business can be a great side-hustle and potentially provide you enough income to make it a full-time job. Selling firewood might be good old fashioned work, but there are many benefits to being your own boss. 

The firewood business opportunity

You might be wondering if there is really that much demand for firewood these days, especially with the convenience of modern heating technology; well, you’d be surprised. There are many scenarios where people still need firewood. Some of these are:

• They are using a wood-burning stove
• Going camping
• They have a wood supply for a back-yard firepit
• Using firewood as a potential back-up heat source
• They are going down to the beach for some fun
• Firewood by the statistics

According to Google, the term ‘Fire Wood Near Me’ is searched an impressive 90,500 times per month on average. The peak month being November, with 135,000 total searches. This means people are directly looking for firewood to buy, which is a big opportunity for you.

You may think firewood is only seasonal, which could be true, depending on where you are located. But if you look at the searches for ‘Firewood Near Me,’ even the lowest month (march) receives 40,000+ inquiries. 

As far as the location is concerned, you may wonder if there would be demand in warmer places such as texas and California? As you can see by the Google search statistics, Texas and California are some of the states with the most demand for firewood. 

For example, California has a northern part that is cooler and may have people in need of wood-burning fireplace fuel. The southern part of the state is hot and lined with beaches and cabins in need of campfire supplies. As shown by the chart below, A total of 11.6% of the searches for firewood are conducted in California, and 8% from Texas. 

According to this chart, the following states receive the most searches for the phrase ‘Firewood Near Me.’ 

• California – 11.6%
• Texas – 8%
• Illinois – 5.6%
• New York – 5.2%
• Pennsylvania – 4.7%
• All other states – 64.9%
• Should I start a firewood business?

This question is easily answered if you live in one of the top 5 states shown above. If not, the good news is that a big part of that pie is divided up between the rest of the States. Odds are, you know, if there is demand in your state, and that’s why you are here. 

If you are still having trouble wondering if there is enough demand for you to starting a firewood business, you can ask yourself these questions:

• Is it cold where I live at least part of the year (3-6 months)
• Do I live close to beaches or beach communities?
• Do I live by major campgrounds or outdoor destinations?
• Are backyard firepits popular where I live?

Let’s take backyard fire pits, for example. Even if you don’t live somewhere cold, the backyard fire is seriously trending up. As you see from the search graph below, on average, this term is searched over 14,000 times per month in the last 24 months. 

However, if we zoom in to a 12 month period, the searches go to 22,500 per month, which is massive growth for just one year. Searches in May 2019 were 12,500 and exploded to an astounding 60,000 in May of 2020. 

If you answered yes to 2 out of those four questions above, odds are there is ample opportunity for you to start a firewood business. Now that we have that answered, let’s move on to th pros and cons.

• Firewood Business Pros
• Being your own boss = freedom
• Working outdoors 
• Could be a nice seasonal income
• Make your own hours
• Great profit margins
• Firewood Business Cons
• Could be seasonal depending on where you live
• Depending on your situation, startup costs could be higher

Table of Contents

Step 1: name and brand your firewood business, step 2: form a business entity, step 3. purchase equipment, step 4. get inventory for your firewood business, step 5. get customers for your firewood business, total startup costs: $2,150.00, profit potential, ready, set, go.

It’s very important to make a plan before you start selling firewood. A business plan aims to organize your business model and answer any questions you may have before getting started. Forming a proper plan can help you avoid hurdles down the road and give you a clear idea of what you need to prioritize. 

The business plan doesn’t have to be a 100-page binder; just think of it as your blueprint for reference as you get things together. To help you get going, we will tackle some of the most important steps to starting a firewood business. 

What’s in a name? Quite a bit, actually. Naming your business is an important step in the process and can even help you stand apart from the competition. You could go simple and name it something like ‘Bailey’s Firewood’ (I mean hey, look at Hershey’s), or you could be a little more cheeky and creative. 

Something that always helps me when naming a company is thinking about the branding and messaging the name lends itself to. Does the name easily make you think of slogans or fun and enticing images? 

For example, the name ‘Holy Smokes’ instantly makes me picture a branding direction. I see a Jesus or angel-like figure holding out a bundle of firewood, and for the logo, I see a campfire with a halo-type ring above it. This may be silly, but silly is better than boring, in my opinion. 

Firewood Business Name Ideas

To get the brain going, here is a list of potential firewood-themed business ideas:

• Holy smokes
• The Campfire Co.
• Bundle Boys
• You’re Fired
• Crackle Co.
• Great balls of fire
• Hot Stuff Firewood
• All Fired Up

After you choose a name, it’s time to have a logo made. A logo is just as important as your name; it’s a visual representation of your business. It will also help you feel more official and give you a sense of validity. 

Nowadays, you can have a logo made from a variety of online resources depending on your budget. With logos, you usually get what you pay for. You don’t need to break the bank, but I wouldn’t recommend going too each either. 

We recommend Fiverr if your budget is under $100

We recommend 99Designs if your budget is $300+

After you have your name and logo secured, it’s time to form an official business entity. There are several reasons you will want to put your business under something like an LLC ; or limited liability company. 

1. Forming an LLC will protect your personal property and assets.

As a business owner, you are always at risk of lawsuits due to something like injury and an abundance of other frivolous claims. With firewood, chances of injury are greater than something like selling paperclips. 

Not to scare you, odds are you will never face legal claims, but it’s better to be safe than sorry (and broke). Let’s say a drunk person is jumping over a fire on the beach using your firewood. That person ends up tripping and falling into the fire and claiming it was because of your ‘faulty’ firewood. Although a silly example, in this scenario, they would only be able to come after assets associated with the business if you have a business entity like an LLC . 

If you do not have an entity established, they could potentially come after your personal finances and property. The random chance of this happening is worth the minimal fees it takes to form an official business. 

2. It makes finances and bookkeeping easier

This one is more important than you might think. Having an LLC will allow you to open up a business bank account. This will enable you to keep track of revenue and expenses. It will also give you legitimacy when working with bigger clients or distributors, such as grocery stores. 

Bookkeeping

Having an LLC for bookkeeping and accounting purposes is worth it alone. Take it from someone who has jumbled both business and personal expenses in the same business account; it gets messy quickly! 

It’s extremely important to know your business numbers, and separating personal finances from business finances will make things much easier for you. You need to look at the bank account and see a clear picture of what is coming in and what is going out. 

Do yourself a favor and if you aren’t good at it, get a bookkeeper that will be able to track everything for you. There are many online bookkeeping services available, specializing in helping small businesses. You don’t need to hire them full-time; it can be more on a freelance-type of basis. 

3. An LLC will come in handy during tax time

There are many tax advantages of forming an LLC for your firewood business. Since you have your finances and bookkeeping handled, filing will be much easier come tax time. This will help you focus less on taxes and more on your business. You can do a few things now that will save you loads of time and money later on. 

You will also be able to write-off business expenses and enjoy other tax benefits of owning your own business. 

Starting a firewood business does take some initial startup capital. Compared to other businesses, startup costs are relatively low, depending on your situation. For example, if you already have a truck, this will save you a lot of money. Remember to think about everything you will need to complete the tasks of getting the inventory (firewood) and delivering it to your buyers. In some situations, customers may come to you, but you will most likely be delivering the wood to either a person or place of business for resale.

Here is our list of itemized equipment you will probably need to start your firewood empire. 

You will certainly need a chainsaw for cutting the logs and wood. You must educate yourself on proper use if not familiar. When it comes to buying equipment for your business, quality is king. 

We suggest getting a gas-powered chainsaw that is at least 18 inches.

Log Splitter

After you have your firewood cut into pieces courtesy of the chainsaw, you will seriously want to consider a wood splitter. This will help you split your log into nice firewood-sized pieces. This will save you time, effort and will be much safer wielding an ax.

Splitters run the gamut in price, but you can get a nice electric or hydraulic splitter for under $500. Here are a couple of options depending on your budget.

For a lower startup budget

Kindling Splitter

Firewood splitting axe and hatchet, firewood cord strapping kit, sturdy gloves, truck and/or trailer.

If you plan on delivering your firewood to suppliers or customers, you cannot get around having a truck or trailer to haul it in. Is the budget a factor? You can try borrowing a truck or getting a ‘beater' in the classifieds until you can afford something better.

If you have a car, an affordable trailer for hauling firewood is a good option. If you upgrade to a truck later, you can still use the trailer to store and haul wood.

Maybe you had the idea of starting the business because you live on a property with lots of potential trees to harvest for wood. If that’s the case, then you already have this question answered and can move on to the next phase of the plan. 

If you don’t have immediate access to wood, we will provide some examples of ways to acquire it. For sourcing wood, think creatively and explore the following sources. 

Ways to source wood when starting your firewood business

1. make a deal with friends or family with timber.

If you know someone with trees, this is a great place to start. You can ask them if you can buy the tress outright, or if they want to participate in some kind of profit-sharing. 

2. Find strangers with timber for sale.

You can find timber for sale on classified sites such as Craigslist all the time. This is a great place to start if you don’t have any connections. 

3. List an ad on Craigslist yourself.

Sometimes, people have timber, and they want it gone. Place an ad in the classifieds that state you will take or buy timber. Many will lose trees in a storm or cut them down while doing landscaping on their home. This is a great opportunity for you to get free inventory and do them a service by hauling it away.

4. Check local lumber mills.

If your firewood business is scaling and you need a lot of inventory, lumber mills could be cost-effective for you. Ask them if they have defects that didn’t pass their quality control. This wood may not be great for building a home, but I bet you it still burns. See if you can make a deal to buy the rejects at a great discount. 

Best types of wood for firewood

When it comes to the best types of wood to sell as firewood, there are a few winners that stick out. There are also some types of wood to avoid if possible. A good rule of thumb is hardwoods make for better firewood than softer woods. Softer woods will burn quicker and your fire will not last very long compared to harder woods.

3 best types of firewood

3 types of firewood wood to avoid.

You have the equipment; you have the firewood, now it's time to get the customers for your firewood business. To help you with this process, you can ask yourself an important question.

Who will you sell to?

You will want to structure your firewood company differently depending on who you plan on selling to. For example, do you want to sell to wood stove owners in bulk, or would you primarily be focussing on small bundles for campgrounds or backyard fire pits? You may want to do both, but it might be best to focus on a specific angle when you’re getting started. It’s essential to know your target demographic and what your ideal customer looks like. 

Types of customers you may want to sell to:

1. Grocery Stores

Have you ever seen bundles of firewood stacked up inside or outside a grocery store? Well, they didn’t get there by an employee going to the forest that day and chopping up some wood. Someone supplied them, and most likely, that someone is local. 

Selling to a grocery store is a great way to sell a lot of firewood in bulk at once. Sure, you may not be able to charge as much as a single customer, but what you lack in the margin for one sale, you will make up in bulk. Think about it; you don’t have to acquire all the customers and deliver the wood; you have one big customer and supply them. A good strategy is only going after the local grocery stores and supermarkets. 

How to get grocery stores as customers:

This is another example of where your LLC comes in handy; you want to show them you are a real business. If the grocery store or supermarket is small and local, you can probably walk right in and ask them if they are looking for a reliable firewood supplier. Make sure to have everything ready, including pricing, delivery, and production capacity.

If you target a bigger store or chain, you can try walking in and talking to the manager. A lot of stores allow branches to supply certain items locally, especially things like firewood. 

Bigger stores also have ‘buyers’ that handle the inventory and supply chain. Suppose you can find the contact information for the buyer and set up a meeting with them. The bottom line is you need to hustle and push your way through the door to talk to someone. Business is about relationships as much as anything else. 

2. People with wood-burning stoves

This is another category that people will most likely be buying large quantities of wood from you. Having a wood-burning stove requires fuel, and that’s where you come in. For this model, you will want to have a truck or trailer to deliver to them, or perhaps they might be willing to pick it up for a reduced fee. 

How to get wood-burning stove customers:

Getting customers for wood-burning stoves isn’t as straightforward as grocery stores. One idea would be to go to wood stove stores and ask if you can leave a flyer or a stack of business cards for customers buying stoves. You could even ask to partner with them and offer a discount for a cord of wood with each stove purchase. Remember to think creatively and find a deal that will be mutually beneficial. 

Another idea is to put an ad in the classifieds such as Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace. Offer your firewood for sale and any details that will make the purchase decision easy for the customer. Online classifieds are still a fantastic way to get business. 

3. Weekend Warriors: Campers, Beach Goers & Backyard Pits

These customers are your bread and butter profit-margin type. You sell a small bundle of wood for an excellent markup, including some kindling and maybe even a started log or lighter as a nice upsell. They usually get the wood out of impulse or convenience, so they don’t mind paying a premium for the grab and go benefit.

How to get the weekend warrior business:

For campers and beachgoers, you could see about getting a permit to sell out of the back of your truck or trailer. You might even be able to negotiate to rent space in a popular parking lot or store. Offering a profit share to the property owner could be enticing enough for them to let you sell your firewood. Another option would be negotiating a similar deal with an owner of strategically located private property. 

For those with backyard firepits, you can use a similar strategy with a combination of the suggestions above. You may want to think beyond grocery stores and talk to places like Lowe’s or Home Depot about carrying your firewood. Since both stores offer firepits for sale, this could be a great relationship. Offering a one-stop-shop for their firepit needs will make for some happy customers.

How much should I charge for the firewood?

Pricing is relative to who you are selling to and where you are selling. The best thing to do is to find comparables in the area by looking in classifieds, stores, etc. Essentially, the price should be what people are willing to pay. You will be able to charge more for the smaller bundles than selling bulk, but your bulk customers will be the easier sell.

A cord of wood ranges from around $130 all the way up to $400 depending on region, so make sure to do your own due diligence before pricing your firewood.

Firewood Business Startup Costs and Profit Potential

The following costs should get you up and running, assuming you get your logs supply free. Due to the variation of methods of acquiring your inventory, you may need to add the price of the wood to these figures. We've also included a trailer, if you already have a truck and don't want a trailer, you can subtract that from the total costs as well.

There are also some optional expenses we've left out, such as a website or additional marketing materials.

Due to the nature of firewood, the profit can also vary. A large determining factor is your business model and who you’re selling to and in what quantities. If you get the wood for free from storms or private property, the profit will obviously be much higher than having to source your wood inventory by purchasing it. Rather than guess the profit, we will show you the range of pricing for various scenarios.

Cords Vs. Bundles

If you sell a cord of wood all at once, let’s say that’s an average of a $175 payday. However, if you break the cord into smaller bundles for vampires or firepits, you could probably sell that same cord for a higher price in total. Although a better payday, option two will require much more time and effort. 

In general, you can get about 48 bundles of wood per cord. Let’s say you can sell a bundle of firewood for $6.00, as Tractor Supply does . 

48 x $6.00 = $288

Chris Ventura

The 19 highest-grossing movies of the 1960s, the 15 most expensive trumpets in the world.

How To Start A Firewood Business

To start a firewood business, one must identify a wood source, acquire necessary permits and equipment, set up a storage area, price products competitively, and implement a marketing strategy to attract customers.

• Last Update: November 23, 2023

• Steps in this Guide: 11

Starting a firewood business can be a lucrative venture for those with a passion for the outdoors and a keen eye for business opportunities. As the demand for sustainable heating sources continues to grow, firewood businesses offer a valuable service to homeowners, businesses, and recreational enthusiasts. However, like any other business, it requires careful planning, market research, and a solid understanding of the industry. In this blog post, we will explore the essential steps and considerations needed to successfully start and run a firewood business. From sourcing and processing firewood to marketing and maintaining customer relationships, we will provide you with practical insights and tips to help you embark on your entrepreneurial journey. Whether you are starting from scratch or looking to expand an existing business, this guide will equip you with the knowledge and tools you need to establish a thriving firewood business.

How To Start A Firewood Business: Step-by-Step

Step 1: market research.

Effective market research is essential in determining the demand for firewood in your locality, identifying potential clients (e.g., homeowners, campgrounds, restaurants), and recognizing competitors. Gathering such insights will inform strategic decision-making for your firewood business.

Step 2: Business Plan

Based on thorough market research, develop a detailed business plan incorporating business structure, marketing strategy, financial forecasts, and operational procedures to provide a comprehensive blueprint for success.

Step 3: Legal Requirements

To legally run your firewood business, make sure to obtain all necessary licenses and permits. Seek advice from a business lawyer to guarantee adherence to local, state, and federal regulations.

Step 4: Sourcing the Wood

In order to ensure a consistent and environmentally responsible supply of wood, it is vital to establish a reliable source that focuses on renewable practices. This can be achieved by collaborating with landowners for tree purchases or partnering with logging companies to procure sustainable logs.

Step 5: Equipment

In order to efficiently process firewood, it is essential to invest in the appropriate equipment such as chainsaws, log splitters, and a reliable delivery truck for transporting the firewood to customers.

Step 6: Processing the Wood

To produce firewood, begin by harvesting wood and cutting it into suitable sizes and shapes. Then, season the firewood by allowing it to dry thoroughly, ensuring it is moisture-free and primed for efficient burning.

Step 7: Storage

Creating a dry and secure storage facility is crucial for firewood, ensuring it remains in optimal condition. Properly seasoned wood may require months or even a year before it can be sold, making a suitable storage space an essential investment for any firewood business.

Step 8: Pricing

When determining prices at competitive rates, it is important to take into account not only the cost of sourcing and processing the wood, but also your overhead costs such as labor, transportation, and administrative expenses. This will help ensure that your prices remain competitive in the market.

Step 9: Marketing Your Business

To effectively reach potential customers, develop a comprehensive marketing strategy that encompasses a range of channels. Consider online advertising, local newspaper ads, and direct marketing efforts targeted specifically at campgrounds and restaurants to maximize exposure and engagement.

Step 10: Delivery

Developing a delivery system is crucial for businesses. It can involve offering free local delivery to enhance customer satisfaction. Additionally, implementing a fee-based delivery service for customers farther away ensures convenience and expands market reach.

Step 11: Customer Service

Providing exceptional customer service is crucial in cultivating a strong and loyal customer base. This encompasses delivering high-quality products, ensuring timely and dependable delivery, and swiftly resolving any concerns or grievances raised by customers.

In conclusion, starting a firewood business can be a lucrative venture for those who are willing to put in the time and effort. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can successfully establish and grow your own firewood business. Remember to conduct thorough market research, invest in quality equipment, and develop a strong marketing strategy to attract customers. Additionally, prioritize safety protocols, sustainability practices, and excellent customer service to differentiate yourself from competitors. With proper planning and management, your firewood business has the potential to become a valuable and profitable enterprise. Good luck on your entrepreneurial journey!

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How to Start a Firewood Business

The firewood business is busy with physically demanding work, deliveries, and local customer service constantly swarming owner-operators, when all they want to do is split. Trust us, we get it.

So, for those looking to get into the firewood industry, it’s better to do it right the first time. Here’s how:

Know the Firewood Market

Types of firewood, amount of customers, and the duration of “firewood season,” is dependent on where you plan to sell firewood.

For example, 60.6% of households in Apache County, AZ are heated by firewood, but only 17.5% of households in St. Lawrence County, NY are heated by firewood.

Still, no matter where you plan to sell firewood, there is a market for the product - think fireplaces, neighborhood bonfires, power outages, or the steady rise in the cost of heating oil.

Look at Maine; many residents are switching to firewood from traditional heating fuels as heating oil surpasses $6 a gallon. The demand for firewood in Maine is so great that some firewood businesses are struggling to split enough firewood.

The future is bright for the global firewood industry. Allied Marketing Research states, “The global Firewood Market Size was valued at $878.5 million in 2021, and is projected to reach $1.5 billion by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 4.2% from 2022 to 2031.”

Know Your Firewood Goals

What are you trying to accomplish by selling firewood? A profitable business? A side hustle for beer money? If you’re not sure, you might want to do some research on log splitters.

First, you will need to know your budget. For those just starting out, we suggest Timberwolf’s TW Series log splitters .

The TW-2 has a base price under $3,000, but still has a commercial frame that will outlast a handful of box store log splitters put together.

As you rake in profits you can add to the TW-2 to create a more efficient log splitting experience. A manual log lift, table grate, and a 4-Way Wedge can be equipped to the small log splitter for big results.

The TW-3 also has a base price below $3,000. This home PTO wood splitter is perfect for those who already have a tractor or some kind of heavy machinery.

Provide the Cleanest Firewood

So, you’ve split your logs. How do you get customers? How do you keep customers? A good first impression will work pretty well.

A table grate will help filter fine materials from split logs, but for that pristine look, we suggest using a disc screener, like the AutoFine . A disc screener will filter all debris before logs are offloaded.

Still, you can’t just hand off an armful of logs to your customers. You have to make your firewood presentable - crazy as that may sound.

A firewood bundler is used to wrap firewood in plastic, so bundles can be easily stored, transported, and delivered. Firewood doesn’t have to be bundled in plastic, but unlike non-bundled firewood, bundled wood brings in two to four times as much profit.

Not only does bundling your firewood result in a professional look, but it is also quicker to bundle firewood than to bag it. 

Expand Your Firewood Processing Operation, Then Do It Again

As your profits and customer base grow, so will your demand. Sad to say, but a time may come when the TW-2 just isn’t cutting it (literally) with your growing demand.

Timberwolf’s HD Series firewood splitters may be just what you need to output more cords without the extra labor. Consisting of the TW-2 HD , TW-3 HD , and TW-5 HD , the HD Series is built for long periods of comfortable operation with a heavy-duty frame that will last from one generation to the next.

If you are looking for a commercial log splitter, built for easy one-man operations, look no further than Timberwolf’s Alpha Series Box Wedge log splitters . These wood splitters feature a log lift with a loading capacity of 500 pounds on the operator’s side, a wedge lift with 8” of vertical range, plus, they are the only Timberwolf log splitters that can be equipped with our Box Wedge and floating auto-retract arm.

The push block will drive logs through the teeth of the Box Wedge, available in three sizes, then the auto-retract arm will pull back the remaining portion of the log into the splitting chamber, with no re-handling necessary.

Keep expanding and you’ll want to look into Timberwolf’s Pro-HD firewood processors - but that’s for a different post.

Firewood Bundler Reviews - What’s The Best Choice?  (n.d.). Firewood for Life.  https://www.firewood-for-life.com/firewood-bundler.html

Firewood Market Size, Share | Industry Research Report, 2031 . (n.d.). Allied Market Research.  https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/firewood-market-A47206#:~:text=Firewood%20Market%20Research%2C%202031,4.2%25%20from%202022%20to%202031

Nasser, H. E. (2021, October 8).  More Than 30% of Homes Heated With Wood In Some Counties . Census.gov.  https://www.census.gov/library/stories/2018/02/who-knew-wood-burning-fuel.html

Staff, D. L. W. (2022, November 23). High prices for propane, heating oil drives up demand for firewood. WWMT . https://wwmt.com/news/nation-world/high-prices-for-propane-heating-oil-drives-up-demand-for-firewood-utility-bills-energy-inflation

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Firewood Business Plan

by Stephen Bradshaw (VA)

Question If I wanted to cut and split firewood as a business, how do you think I could best obtain logs to make my firewood? How do you think I could best market my firewood? Thanks E. S. Bradshaw Answer Great question Stephen, For most entrepreneurs who are looking to start their own firewood business, obtaining a consistent supply of logs to process into firewood can be a challenge. In the beginning it might not be such a big deal. If you have trees available on your property you could use those, but as the business grows this supply will quickly diminish. For a successful business you need to come up with a long term solution to obtain your wood. A majority of firewood suppliers own their own logging company. The leftover wood is either sold by the semi load or processed into finished firewood. However, this option obviously does not apply to everyone. Here's a couple options or suggestions for obtaining wood to process into firewood: Wholesale From Nearby Loggers Or Tree Removal Companies - Call several logging companies and obtain a price for a semi load of pulpwood. Also called a loggers cord, the wood generally comes in 8 foot lengths and it can easily be processed into finished firewood. Although this is an easy option to quickly process firewood and have a reliable supply, it will cut down on your profit because you have to buy the wood. Buying large quantities from one company or paying cash could lower the price. The benefit of this option is that the wood is brought directly to you. This eliminates any hauling on your part cutting down on fuel expenses and labor. Try calling local tree trimming or tree removal companies and ask what they do with their trees when they're done. Some will gladly give them away or sell them for a low cost. Look For Properties That Have Been Logged - Look for nearby properties in your area that have just been logged or post a wanted add on Craigslist or in the newspaper. Many property owners who have their property logged don't burn firewood. They would be happy to let you clean up all the leftover tops or sell them for a great price. Offer Free Cleanup - Again, post an add offering free cleanup of dead or down trees. In return you can keep the wood. If a storm blows down a lot of trees, many homeowners would be happy to have someone clean them up for free. Local Sawmill - If you live near a sawmill you can ask them for slab wood which is the outer edges of the tree left over after processing. Most sawmills sell this wood at a great price. Working out an agreement with a local sawmill could land you an endless supply of cheep wood. Pick Up Free Wood - Look for "free firewood" adds and respond to them. A guy I know used this method this year and picked up a two years supply of firewood. In fact, he found so much free wood he ran out of room to store it! Advertising a firewood business can be done in several ways. Here are some great ideas: Word Of Mouth - I know....it sounds obvious but it's often overlooked. Let everyone know about your business. Tell the local party store owner or your local bar or restaurant about your business. The word will spread quickly and best of all....it's free advertisement. Social Media - Facebook, Twitter and Craigslist are all great ways to promote your business. Free Directories - Some websites (like this one!) offer free directories where you can list your business. We dedicate an entire page for you to promote your business. Again....free advertisement is great so use every opportunity you can get. Flyers And Business Cards - Flyers and business cards are cheep to produce. Place flyers at the library, gas station and anywhere else that will allow it. These are just a few ideas to help get you started. If you get creative there are a lot of other ways to promote a business. As always, I would love to have someone leave a comment to share what ideas they have used to obtain firewood and how they market their business! Hope this helps, Nick Firewood For Life

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How to Start a Firewood Business?

Are you aware of the steps you can take to increase the profit potential of your firewood business and add value to your production?

Offering seasoned and high-quality firewood enables you to ask for higher firewood prices. Selling mixed piles of firewood consisting of various firewood species and debris means less work but also translates to lower profits.

Understanding Your Customers

Take a moment to consider these questions: Why do people burn firewood in your area? Do you have an understanding of how many people heat their houses with firewood and which firewood sizes they prefer? Look for campsites, wood-fired BBQ restaurants and retail stores that might be looking to buy firewood in bundles.

How often do your customers need to restock and how do they like their firewood delivered? Studying the needs of your customers is crucial for meeting these demands and planning your firewood production accordingly.

After studying the market you need to find the right machine to meet these requirements .

Finding a Reliable Supply of Logs

Source your logs from multiple suppliers to ensure that you will always have logs available even when your main supplier might be struggling with deliveries. This also enables you to source different kinds of logs for varying firewood orders helping you grow your business towards new segments.

Finding a log supply with consistently sized logs is best for business as you can purchase the most efficient processor for that specific log size. If this is not possible, purchase a large enough firewood processor with multiple splitting wedge options for most of your logs. Sort out small and large diameter logs and choose the splitting wedge accordingly for efficient processing of firewood. All irregularly large parts of logs can be split easily with a log splitter.

Process smaller logs into kindling or packaged firewood efficiently using machines with fast splitting cycles and simultaneous cutting and splitting motions. Processing small logs into firewood often means higher profits compared to chipping it.

Large diameter logs requires high splitting power, which means that the same processor might not be efficient for smaller logs. If your business is large enough, invest in several sizes of firewood processors for maximum efficiency.

Building a Profitable Firewood Business

While one person operates the firewood processor another person can take care of loading the logs, moving out the finished firewood and taking orders.

Look for a processor with a sufficiently sized live deck to avoid constant need for reloading.

It is usually more effective to plan the movement of logs to the machine than hauling your firewood equipment around the yard. Install your firewood processor on to a concrete slab for easy collection of sawdust, separation of debris and kindling, and build a shed to protect your operator from the weather. 

Establish a process for moving finished firewood to storage and always keep the finished products off the ground for a more efficient drying process. Consider hiring part-timers for packaging, stacking and other duties in the yard or invest in crates or firewood bags for easy deliveries .

Extra tip! Having the right equipment is crucial for growing your business. A crane-mounted

trailer comes in handy when doing mobile processing jobs. Transport your processor and live deck on the trailer and after unloading the equipment use the trailer crane to load logs on to the live deck. Pricing your mobile jobs accurately is important because you lose valuable time during the transportation and you are away from your own production-efficient firewood yard.

Stay tuned! Our next article will introduce different customer segments and typical firewood requirements for higher customer satisfaction.

We have developed a simple questionnaire to help you find the right firewood processor for your needs. Read more about the cutting-edge solutions Hakki Pilke has to offer by   visiting our website .

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Firewood Business Plan

Written by Elma Steven | Updated on June, 2024

How to Write a Firewood Business Plan?

Firewood Business Plan is an outline of your overall firewood business. The business plan should include a 5 year financial projection, marketing plan, industry analysis, organizational overview, operational overview and finally an executive summary. Remember to write your executive summary at the end as it is considered as a snapshot of the overall business plan. You need to be careful while writing the plan as you need to consider various factors that can impact the business’s success.

Table of Contents

Executive summary.

Chris Miller, an enterprising individual, started the rapidly expanding firewood supply company Forest Flame Firewood in the verdant woods close to Springfield. consumers include restaurants and outdoor event planners in addition to residential consumers like campers and homeowners who are interested in purchasing excellent firewood that has been acquired in a sustainable manner. Chris Miller, who has a strong background in forestry management and a strong dedication to environmental protection, has established Forest Flame as a company that provides sustainable practices while simultaneously satisfying the need for premium firewood.

Mission: Forest Flame Firewood is devoted to providing clients with high-quality firewood that has been sustainably harvested. In addition to satisfying consumers’ demands for heating and cooking, the company’s aim is to enhance forest management practices and promote environmental protection via the delivery of firewood. This mission statement shows the company’s dedication to finding a harmonious blend of meeting consumer needs and being environmentally conscious.

Vision: With a focus on environmental ethics, high-quality goods, and customer-centric services, Forest Flame Firewood aspires to become a prominent firewood provider. While staying true to its principles of sustainability and quality, the firm plans to broaden its client base to include residential, commercial, and recreational sectors. Forest Flame’s long-term goal is to raise firewood industry awareness about the need of responsible wood use and environmental protection.

Industry Overview

Particularly in areas with abundant forest resources, the firewood business in the US is a vital and ever-changing aspect of the economy. The ever-present need for firewood for domestic heating, cooking, and leisure activities propels the industry forward. Sustainable firewood has becoming more popular as people look for ways to reduce their environmental impact and use renewable energy. Camping and backyard get-togethers, which rely on firewood, are becoming more popular, which is good news for the industry’s development.

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Financial Highlights

Earnings & profitability.

Break-Even Analysis

Business Description

Business Name: Forest Flame Firewood

Founders:Chris Miller

Management Team: [You can ignore this/ delete this but its better to provide it]

Legal Structure: LLC

Location: Miami

Goals & Objectives:

• Build a Strong Client Base: Within the first year of business, strive to acquire and keep a varied spectrum of clientele, including both established musicians and new local artists.
• Enhance Brand Recognition: Create a solid reputation for your company in Miami’s music industry by actively participating in social media, forming relationships with local music events, and using targeted marketing.
• Deliver High-Quality Productions: Maintain a stellar reputation by regularly releasing recordings of the highest quality that are on par with or above expectations in the field.
• Expand Services Portfolio: Include more music production services, seminars, and workshops in your service offering within two years.
• Achieve Financial Stability: Accomplish a financially sound strategy that generates consistent revenue growth throughout the first three years of operation.
• Foster a Creative Community: Build an atmosphere that encourages teamwork and creativity, and that producers and artists will want to work in.
• Incorporate Cutting-Edge Technology: Maintain a leading position in the business by consistently updating and investing in state-of-the-art recording equipment and software.
• Develop Strategic Partnerships: To broaden your reach and improve the quality of your services, team up with nearby companies, music schools, and studios.
• Receive Industry Recognition: Within the next five years, strive to receive local music production honors, either as a winner or a nominee.
• Sustainability and Social Responsibility: Take part in community service programs and adopt environmentally responsible habits as a way to give back to your neighborhood.

Services: 

• Premium Firewood Supply : Depending on your burning preferences and requirements, provide a range of high-quality firewoods, such as seasoned hardwoods and softwoods.
• Customized Bundling: Make it possible for clients to buy according to their needs by offering several bundling alternatives, such as smaller bundles for camping excursions or larger cables for home heating.
• Sustainable Harvesting Consultation: Provide local landowners or forestry businesses with advice on sustainable wood harvesting methods that prioritize ethical and environmentally friendly techniques.
• Delivery and Stacking Services: Assist clients with wood storage and upkeep by offering delivery alternatives to their locations and stacking services.
• Kindling and Fire Starter Kits: To meet the varied demands of people who use firewood, you should broaden your product offerings to include kindling, natural fire starters, and fire safety supplies.
• Seasonal Subscriptions: Launch a subscription business that delivers firewood to consumers on a regular basis based on their use habits; this way, they can rest certain that they will always have firewood on hand.
• Firewood for Special Events: Provide a tailored service for gatherings requiring bigger amounts of firewood, such as outdoor weddings, festivals, or business retreats.
• Eco-Friendly Initiatives: To attract customers who are concerned about the environment, you could launch and publicize green projects. For example, for every cord sold, you should plant a tree.
• Educational Workshops: To position your company as an industry leader, provide seminars on topics such as firewood selection, safe burning techniques, and efficient stove use.
• Collaboration with Local Businesses: Expand your market reach by partnering with local companies like barbecue restaurants, outdoor events, and campers to offer firewood.

Financial Overview

Startup cost, revenue & cost projection, profitability & cash flow projection, business model.

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Marketing Plan

Promotional channels, social media marketing – $15,000 (30%).

• Focus on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest.
• Share content showcasing the quality and sustainability of the firewood, customer testimonials, and behind-the-scenes glimpses of the harvesting process.
• Use targeted ads to reach homeowners, camping enthusiasts, and local businesses.

Website and SEO:

• Update the website to be visually appealing, informative, and user-friendly, highlighting the sustainability aspect.
• Regularly post blog content on topics like sustainable firewood use, best practices for wood burning, and firewood storage tips.
• Optimize the website for search engines with keywords related to firewood sales, sustainable firewood, and local service areas.

Email Marketing:

• Develop a monthly newsletter featuring updates, special offers, and educational content about firewood and sustainable practices.
• Segment the email list to tailor messages for different customer groups like residential clients, commercial businesses, and occasional purchasers.

Local Partnerships:

• Collaborate with local businesses, such as campgrounds, barbecue restaurants, and outdoor event organizers.
• Sponsor local community events and offer firewood bundles as prizes or giveaways.

Community Engagement and Influencer Collaborations:

• Engage with local environmental influencers and community leaders to promote sustainable firewood usage.
• Participate in community events and initiatives to increase brand visibility.

Direct Mail and Local Advertising:

• Send out brochures or flyers to local neighborhoods, especially in areas known for wood-burning practices.
• Invest in local advertising through newspapers, community bulletins, and sponsorships of local sports teams or events.

Referral Program:

• Implement a referral program where customers get a discount or a free bundle for referring new clients.
• Encourage word-of-mouth promotion among current customers.

Brand Management

Social media marketing.

• Brand Voice and Visual Identity: Develop a brand voice that communicates reliability, environmental responsibility, and quality. Use a consistent visual style across platforms featuring your firewood products, sustainable practices, and customer experiences.
• User-Generated Content: Encourage customers to share their experiences using your firewood, such as photos or stories of cozy fireplaces or campfires, and repost these to build trust and authenticity.
• Live Sessions: Host live sessions on platforms like Facebook or Instagram, showcasing your sustainable harvesting processes, firewood preparation techniques, and Q&A sessions with forestry experts.

Search Engine Marketing (SEM) and Local SEO

• Ad Copy: Focus your ad copy on the quality, sustainability, and variety of your firewood products. Highlight any unique services like delivery or subscription options.
• Website Optimization: Ensure your website is attractive, informative, and SEO-optimized with relevant keywords such as “sustainable firewood”, “quality firewood near me”, and “firewood delivery services”.
• Google My Business: Regularly update your Google My Business profile with photos, services offered, and customer reviews to enhance local search visibility.

Email Marketing

• Newsletter: Share updates about new products, sustainable harvesting practices, special offers, and showcase customer testimonials or success stories.
• Segmentation: Create tailored email content for different customer segments like residential users, commercial clients, and seasonal campers.

Local Partnerships and Sponsorships

• Community Events: Partner with local events, especially outdoor and environmental initiatives, offering firewood supplies or sponsorships.
• Collaboration with Local Businesses: Work with campgrounds, outdoor venues, and local stores for cross-promotional opportunities.

Content Marketing

• Educational Content: Produce blog posts, videos, and infographics about sustainable firewood usage, best practices for wood-burning, and tips for firewood storage.
• Behind-the-Scenes: Share insights into the sustainable sourcing and preparation of your firewood, highlighting your commitment to environmental stewardship.

Influencer and Community Collaborations

• Partnerships with Local Influencers: Collaborate with local environmental influencers or outdoor enthusiasts who can showcase the use of your firewood in real-life settings.
• Content Collaboration: Co-create content that highlights both the quality of your firewood and the environmental ethos of your business.

Offline Advertising

• Local Media and Print: Advertise in local community newsletters, outdoor recreation magazines, and on local radio stations. Ensure the ads reflect the eco-friendly and quality nature of your business.
• Community Boards and Local Stores: Place flyers and business cards in local stores, community centers, and camping sites.

Referral Program

• Incentivize Referrals: Offer discounts or additional firewood to clients who refer new customers to your business.

Go To Market Strategy

Online presence and community engagement.

• Professional Website: Develop a website showcasing the variety and quality of your firewood, sustainable practices, and services like delivery. Include an easy ordering system and customer testimonials.
• Content Marketing: Publish blog posts or articles about sustainable firewood usage, best burning practices, and insights into the environmental impact of wood sourcing.
• Local Directory Listings: Ensure your business is listed in local online directories and environmental portals to enhance local search visibility.
• Partnerships: Collaborate with local businesses such as campgrounds, BBQ restaurants, and outdoor event planners to offer promotional deals and build a network within the community.

Studio Launch Event and Promotional Offers

• Grand Opening Event: Host an event to introduce your business to the community. Invite local residents, businesses, and environmental groups to understand your services and sustainability ethos.
• Introductory Discounts: Offer special rates or bundled packages for first-time customers or during specific seasons to attract new clients.

Digital Marketing and Customer Relations

• Social Media Campaigns: Use platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest to showcase your products and share customer experiences, focusing on the quality and sustainability of your firewood.
• Email Marketing: Send a regular newsletter with updates on new products, special offers, and environmental news to keep your audience informed and engaged.
• Loyalty Program: Implement a program that rewards repeat customers with discounts, special offers, or priority delivery services.

Brand Awareness and Public Relations

• Local Media Outreach: Collaborate with local media for features or interviews about sustainable firewood practices and your business’s contribution to the community.
• Community Involvement: Actively participate in local environmental events or sponsor community programs to enhance brand visibility and showcase your commitment to sustainability.
• Influencer Partnerships: Partner with local environmental influencers or community figures for promotions and content sharing.

Performance Tracking

• Analytics and Feedback: Use tools like Google Analytics and customer surveys to monitor the effectiveness of your marketing strategies and gather feedback.
• Adaptation: Be prepared to adjust your strategies based on performance data, customer feedback, and evolving market trends.

Organizational Overview

Located at the crossroads of eco-friendliness and business acumen, Forest Timber Firewood is Chris Miller’s brainchild. Starting with a strong desire to protect the environment and an insatiable appetite for adventure, he eventually found himself immersed in sustainable forestry and wood management. When it comes to the ethical procurement and distribution of firewood, Chris has a rare combination of knowledge thanks to his formal education and practical experience in sustainable forest operations.

Chris stands out in the firewood market because to his extensive background in sustainable approaches. He has refined his abilities and gained a deeper grasp of the ecological effect of his company’s operations via his work in environmental conservation and forestry. As a result of this expertise, Green Timber Firewood is able to guarantee that their whole process, from sourcing to delivery, is environmentally responsible.

Chris has set out on his entrepreneurial adventure with the goal of building a company that provides services outside the conventional realm of firewood. Living sustainably and making a good impact on the community and environment are two of his main goals at Green Timber Firewood. From using only the highest quality timber that has been responsibly harvested to establishing environmentally conscious policies, his dedication to excellence and innovation shines through in every facet of the company.

In addition, Chris’s impact on the community goes beyond only his company. To bring attention to the need of responsible forestry methods and sustainable wood consumption, he takes part in environmental events and educational programs in his community. He has big plans for Green Timber Firewood, and they include more than simply running a profitable company. He wants to make sure that the firewood sector is more environmentally responsible. To Chris, it is possible to have a prosperous business and yet be conscientious of the environment; he wants his firm to be an example of this.

Positions and Responsibilities

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) – Chris Miller:

Chris Miller, Green Timber Firewood’s chief executive officer, sets the company’s long-term vision, directs daily operations, and represents the company at trade shows and other industry gatherings. Chris oversees the company’s resources, takes crucial choices, and keeps everyone in the loop.

Operations Manager:

Daily activities are overseen by this manager, who is also responsible for the procurement, processing, and distribution of firewood. They check that all operations are in line with efficiency and environmental requirements.

Sustainability and Procurement Specialist:

Responsible for ensuring compliance with environmental rules, establishing and maintaining connections with local forestry services, and obtaining wood responsibly are the major aspects of this profession. They play an essential role in ensuring that the company’s operations are environmentally friendly.

Customer Service and Sales Representative:

Answers calls, takes reservations, and closes deals. Relationship management with clients, customer satisfaction, and order processing are all areas where they excel.

Marketing and Community Outreach Coordinator:

Promotes Green Timber Firewood by creating and implementing marketing plans. In addition to managing the company’s web presence, they actively participate in community activities and work to increase brand recognition in the local market.

Financial Controller:

Responsible for managing the company’s finances, including accounts, budgets, and invoices. They provide valuable insights for the development and sustainability of the organization via financial planning and reporting.

Inventory and Quality Control Manager:

Oversees the firewood inventory, making sure it is well-managed and of high quality. In order to keep the firewood of the highest quality for the consumers, they also manage its preparation and storage.

Logistics and Delivery Coordinator:

Manages the logistics and delivery schedules to provide firewood to consumers quickly and efficiently. The success of the business and happiness of its customers depend on this position.

Maintenance and Equipment Technician:

In charge of the upkeep and repair of machinery used in the processing and transportation of wood. They keep all vehicles and equipment in top operating condition, which improves operational efficiency and decreases downtime.

Operational Overview

 Standard Firewood Supply

• We provide premium, season-ready firewood that is great for cooking, heating, and outdoor activities.
• Various wood kinds and bundle sizes are available for purchase.

 Sustainable Harvesting and Custom Orders

• Giving out firewood that has been sustainably harvested so as to do as little harm as possible to the environment.
• Make your own orders based on the dimensions and species of wood that best suit your needs.

 Delivery and Stacking Services

• Customers may take advantage of our delivery service, which includes the option to stack the firewood for added convenience.

 Seasonal Subscription Services

• Establishing subscription models that provide regular delivery of firewood based on consumer use patterns, guaranteeing a steady supply all year round.

 Camping and Outdoor Solutions

• Camping gear packages include kindling and easy-to-burn choices for all your outdoor adventures.
• Working together with nearby campgrounds and outdoor spaces to establish supply contracts.

Educational Workshops and Sustainable Living Advocacy

• Holding seminars on eco-friendly firewood burning techniques, responsible consumption, and sustainable behaviors.
• Advocating for eco-friendly lifestyles via instructional materials and public engagement.

Firewood Processing Services

• Servicing clients who possess wood but don’t have the means to handle it by doing tasks such as splitting or seasoning it.

 Wholesale and Retail Partnerships

• Creating alliances to serve local companies, such hardware shops and garden centers, wholesale.
• Retail choices for clients to buy from your establishment or local partners.

 Community Engagement and Support

• Participating in community activities, donating firewood for neighborhood gatherings, and participating in philanthropic projects.

Online Sales and Custom Orders

• Conveniently selling firewood and associated items using an online ordering system.

Industry Analysis

With a projected CAGR of 4.2% between 2021 and 2031, the worldwide firewood market is anticipated to reach USD 1.5 billion by the year 2031. Several reasons are propelling the market forward. One of them is the growing need for eco-friendly heating solutions. Another is the increasing popularity of outdoor leisure activities and the increasing disposable incomes in emerging nations.

Source: alliedmarketresearch

By 2030, the worldwide firewood market is expected to be worth more than $25 billion, demonstrating its dynamic and expanding nature. With more and more people realizing the environmental advantages of firewood over fossil fuels and the increasing popularity of outdoor cooking and residential fires, the demand for firewood is likely to skyrocket in the years to come. Even though there are a lot of small and medium-sized businesses in the market, big names like Rentech and Enviva Partners provide a wide variety of goods and services to customers all over the world. Problems that firewood producers have include increasing wood prices and rules governing forest management methods. They are concentrating on environmentally friendly methods and creating new technology to adjust.

Some of the most important developments propelling the sector forward include certification, technology, and sustainability. Educating customers on the advantages of firewood, forming partnerships with local companies, offering a range of firewood products, and providing value-added services are all ways that firewood firms may profit on these trends. companies selling firewood may boost their visibility, gain customer loyalty, and set themselves up for success in the long run by focusing on a certain niche market, expanding their internet presence, providing delivery services, forming partnerships with other local companies, and being engaged in the community.

Other key trends and stats:

• Growing Demand for Sustainable Fuel: Increased consumer preference for sustainable, eco-friendly fuel sources is boosting the demand for firewood, especially sustainably sourced varieties.
• Technological Advancements: Innovations in wood processing, seasoning, and delivery have made firewood more accessible and convenient, enhancing its appeal as a primary or secondary fuel source.
• Rise in Outdoor Activities: The growing popularity of outdoor activities like camping and backyard gatherings is driving up the demand for firewood as a source of heat and for cooking.
• Economic Contribution and Employment: The firewood industry plays a significant role in local and regional economies, particularly in forested areas, providing jobs in forestry, transportation, and sales.

Source: globenewswire

Industry Problems 

• Seasonal Demand: Fluctuating sales due to seasonal demand.
• Supply and Sourcing: Ensuring a consistent supply of quality firewood.
• Quality Control: Maintaining consistent firewood quality.
• Competition: Standing out in a competitive market.
• Regulations and Permits: Navigating local regulations and permits.
• Storage and Seasoning: Proper storage and seasoning practices.
• Delivery and Logistics: Efficiently managing deliveries.
• Customer Service: Providing excellent customer support.
• Environmental Concerns: Addressing sustainability.
• Market Trends: Staying updated on industry trends.

Industry Opportunities

Flexible Pricing Models

• Make use of tiered pricing or bundle packages to accommodate customers with varying budgets. One way to do this is to provide varying rates for firewood according on factors like delivery service, wood kind, and amount bought.
• Provide discounted prices to clients who sign longer-term contracts or who are repeat customers. With this, you can increase client loyalty and guarantee a constant flow of funds.
• If you want to boost sales during sluggish times, you can think about running seasonal deals or discounts.

Efficient Sourcing and Delivery

• The best way to guarantee a steady supply of affordable, high-quality firewood is to form solid partnerships with dependable providers.
• To save money and time, streamline delivery routes and invest in transportation equipment that works.
• To cater to a broader spectrum of consumers, you may think about providing a variety of delivery alternatives including curbside, stacking, and inside delivery.

Quality Assurance and Sustainability

• To make sure that the firewood you get is of the right kind, size, and moisture content, you should put in place rigorous quality control measures.
• In order to lessen your company’s influence on the environment, be sure you get your firewood from sustainable forestry operations.
• Give some thought to selling certified firewood that satisfies stringent environmental and quality requirements.

Marketing and Sales

• Create a robust digital presence, including a website and social media profiles, to advertise your wares to a larger demographic.
• Join in on local marketing events like farmers markets, house exhibits, and community gatherings to meet prospective clients in your neighborhood.
• In order to draw in new consumers and reward loyal ones, you should run promotions or discount sales.

Customer Service

• Deliver outstanding customer service by addressing problems efficiently, reacting quickly to questions, and exceeding customer expectations.
• Give customers a choice of easy ways to pay, including online purchasing and the use of credit cards.
• To find out what customers think and where you can make improvements, set up a feedback system.

Community Involvement

• To network and get your name out there, get active with community groups and activities in your area.
• Show your support for the community by donating firewood to nonprofits or sponsoring a local sports team.
• Collaborate with nearby enterprises, like landscaping firms or home improvement shops, to advertise your goods and services to a wider audience.

Target Market Segmentation

Geographic segmentation.

Residential customers : Focus on homeowners in areas with a high demand for firewood, such as regions with cold winters or those with a growing interest in outdoor fireplaces and cooking.

Commercial customers: Target businesses that use firewood for heating, cooking, or outdoor events, such as restaurants, campgrounds, and event venues.

Specific neighborhoods or communities: Identify neighborhoods or communities with a strong interest in sustainability or environmental consciousness, as they may be more receptive to eco-friendly firewood options.

Demographic Segmentation

Age groups: Cater to different age groups, such as younger homeowners just starting out or older adults who may require assistance with firewood delivery and stacking.

Income levels : Offer a range of firewood options, from affordable bundled firewood for budget-conscious customers to premium seasoned firewood for those seeking higher quality.

Homeownership status: Focus on homeowners, as they are the primary consumers of firewood for residential use.

Psychographic Segmentation

Homeowners seeking convenience and comfort: Target homeowners who value convenience and comfort, offering options like delivery, stacking, and storage services.

Outdoor enthusiasts and campers: Appeal to outdoor enthusiasts and campers by offering high-quality firewood suitable for outdoor activities, such as campfires and outdoor cooking.

Environmentally conscious consumers: Target eco-conscious consumers by providing sustainably sourced firewood and promoting eco-friendly practices.

Behavioral Segmentation

Regular firewood users: Focus on customers who regularly purchase firewood, offering loyalty programs, discounts for repeat purchases, and seasonal promotions.

Newcomers to firewood usage: Educate and inform newcomers to firewood usage about the benefits and proper use of firewood, offering starter kits and instructional materials.

Customers with specific firewood needs: Cater to customers with specific firewood needs, such as those requiring wood for cooking, fireplaces, or outdoor events.

Technological Segmentation

Online consumers: Offer convenient online ordering and payment options for customers who prefer to purchase firewood digitally.

Homeowners with smart home systems: Integrate firewood storage and delivery services with smart home systems for added convenience and automation.

Customers seeking innovative firewood solutions: Explore and introduce innovative firewood solutions, such as moisture-resistant firewood or pre-cut firewood for specific uses, to attract tech-savvy customers.

Market Size

• Total Addressable Market (TAM)

Every possible customer for firewood delivery services and sales is the total addressable market (TAM) for firewood companies. Everyone who uses firewood for indoor or outdoor heating, cooking, or entertainment falls into this category, whether they own a house or not. A number of variables, including local weather patterns, population density, and the prevalence of outdoor activities, could affect the TAM’s expansive purview.

• Serviceable Addressable Market (SAM)

A subset of the total addressable market (TAM), the firewood industry’s SAM is the subset of the market that any one firewood company may reasonably hope to penetrate. A number of factors impact the SAM, such as the business’s location, the firewood varieties supplied, and the demographics of the target customers. Consider a firewood company in a northern state with a lengthy winter season compared to one in a warmer region; the SAM for the former would be different. In addition, the demographics of those looking for cheaply packaged firewood can vary from those seeking high-quality, seasoned firewood..

• Serviceable Obtainable Market (SOM)

A company’s reasonable expectation of capturing a certain portion of the SAM is known as the SOM for firewood firms. This is the most important measure because it shows the potential market share that the company can achieve with its present resources and standing in the market. A number of factors impact the SOM, including as the company’s credibility, the freshness and quality of its products, the timeliness and accuracy of its delivery services, and the success of its advertising campaigns. The SOM helps the company set attainable sales and revenue goals and directs its operational and strategic actions to target the most important market segment for growth..

Industry Forces

Market demand and music production trends.

Demand for firewood: A number of variables, including local weather patterns, population density, and the prevalence of outdoor pursuits, impact the need for firewood.

Preferences for firewood types: Seasoned hardwood, softwood, and bundled firewood are some of the most popular varieties among consumers.

Sustainability concerns: More and more, people are thinking about the long-term viability of firewood suppliers.

Demand for convenience and delivery services: Firewood delivery and stacking services are in high demand from consumers.

Competition

Large firewood suppliers: The economies of scale and size of the provider allow them to provide cheaper firewood.

Small, local firewood businesses: These companies have a good grasp of the local wood supply and can provide individualized assistance.

Do-it-yourself firewood: For their fireplaces, some shoppers want to go out and get their own wood.

Technological Advances

Efficient firewood processing equipment: Processing efficiency and labor expenses may both be enhanced with the use of this technology.

Online ordering and payment systems: Clients may find it less of a hassle to buy firewood using these solutions.

GPS tracking for delivery vehicles: Both delivery efficiency and consumer happiness may be enhanced using this technology.

Mobile applications for firewood ordering: These apps may make it easy for clients to purchase and monitor the progress of their firewood deliveries.

Regulatory Environment

Forestry regulations: Businesses dealing in firewood are required to follow all applicable state and municipal forestry laws and ordinances when it comes to obtaining and cutting firewood.

Environmental regulations: Pollutant levels in the air, water, and trash must be managed in accordance with environmental rules, and firewood enterprises must adhere to these rules.

Business licensing and permits: In order to lawfully sell firewood, firms must get the appropriate licenses and permissions.

Economic Factors

Fuel prices: Fluctuations in fuel prices can affect the cost of firewood delivery.

Consumer spending: Consumer spending habits can impact the demand for firewood.

Weather conditions: The supply and demand for firewood may be impacted by severe weather events.

Supplier Dynamics

Wood suppliers: In order to maintain a steady supply of high-quality firewood, firewood firms depend on wood suppliers.

Equipment suppliers: Companies in the firewood industry depend on equipment providers for the tools and machinery needed for processing and transporting firewood.

Transportation providers: Companies that sell firewood depend on delivery services to get the wood to consumers.

Customer Preferences and Expectations

High-quality firewood: In order to meet customer expectations, firewood must be of good quality and free from pests and illnesses.

Variety of firewood options: Seasoned hardwood, softwood, and bundled firewood are just a few of the alternatives that customers anticipate when shopping for firewood.

Convenient delivery and stacking services: Customers expect convenient delivery and stacking services.

Competitive prices: Customers expect competitive prices for firewood.

Social and Environmental Responsibility

Sustainable firewood sourcing: Customers who care about the environment are more likely to patronize firewood firms that acquire their firewood from sustainable sources.

Community involvement: Businesses selling firewood that are active in their neighborhoods are more likely to meet new people and earn positive word of mout

Workforce Availability and Skills

Skilled firewood processors and delivery personnel: Businesses dealing in firewood should employ competent processors and delivery drivers to guarantee the safe and efficient handling of their goods.

Safety training: Employers in the firewood industry have a responsibility to their workers to educate them on how to work safely.

Investment & Capital Expenditure

Revenue Summary

Cost of Goods Sold Summary

OpEX Summary

Income Statement

Cash Flow Statement

Balance Sheet

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• Firewood Processing

Tennessee Firewood Company Grows Business with Mix of Wholesale, Retail

Blaze It Firewood Upgrades to Multitek 2040XP2 Firewood Processor for High Volume Producers

CAMDEN, Tennessee —

Richard Gunthert went looking for a business to own, saw an opportunity in the firewood industry, and started his own company, Blaze It Firewood Products.

“I’m a person who prefers to be outdoors,” explained Rich, 55, who just upgraded his business with a new Multitek firewood processing machine. “I always have been. It also wasn’t a big stretch for me to find something that wasn’t a mainstream kind of business.”

Rich has been around the corporate and business world for more than 30 years. Originally from mid-state New York, he transferred and relocated numerous times as he was moving up the corporate ladder, mainly focusing on sales and sales management. In 2007, he left that behind and invested in a parking management company and helped run it for 10 years before eventually selling his portion back to the original owner. He and his family have called Franklin, Tenn., home since 2000.

After selling his interest in the parking management company, “I bounced around, looking for something else to do,” he recalled. Having had a taste of working for himself, “I knew I didn’t want to return to a corporate job,” said Rich. He decided he would either buy another business or start one from scratch. He explored several businesses and industries, then he hit on the idea of starting a firewood company, a business that “intrigued” him.”

Rich’s background also includes business finance. “I put together a business plan and after some market research decided there was enough demand to support the idea,” he said. The concept of the business crystalized in early 2018, and he started the company in the middle of the same year.

The business has been growing steadily. The company now sells “well in excess of 1,000 cords a year,” said Rich, who has a half-dozen employees, mainly full-time. He works “full time and then some” in his business.

From the beginning, Rich knew his principal market would not be like the Northeast and other regions where people burn wood for heat in the winter or as a supplemental source of heat. Tennessee is too far south.

Instead, he mixes retail and wholesale business; he sells bulk firewood retail and packaged or bundled firewood wholesale. Customers for wholesale business include campgrounds and other businesses that will resell the firewood to campers or homeowners. The company also sells fuel wood to restaurants that use it for cooking. Another thing that distinguishes his business: all the company’s firewood is kiln-dried.

Rich bought about six acres of land in Camden, about 80 miles west of Nashville; the location enables the company to serve customers in east Tennessee as well as portions of Kentucky and Alabama. He had a 3,000 square-foot metal building constructed for an office and storing finished firewood inside. Firewood production is done outside near the wood yard.

Rich invested in a Multitek 2040XP2 firewood processor that his company received last month, upgrading from a previous brand that he used to launch the company. He was attracted to Multitek because of its reputation. “It’s almost like an industry standard,” he said. Multitek firewood processors are designed and built for high volume production and are known for their longevity, he added.

Rich saw Multitek exhibit its firewood processors at a couple of trade shows, although he did not make the trips specifically to search out Multitek. He attended the Northeast Expo in Bangor, Maine, and the East Coast Sawmill and Logging Equipment Exposition in Richmond, Virginia, also known as the Richmond Expo.

In the process of making a buying decision, he also talked to other people in the firewood business. “They were all running Multiteks,” said Rich, who gave little or no consideration to other brands.

The Multitek Model 2040XP2 is engineered and built for large volume firewood producers. Multitek reports that it has hundreds of customers around the world that rely on this particular model.

The Multitek 2040XP2 is powered by a John Deere 125 hp diesel engine. Equipped with an operator’s cab, it can process logs up to 23 inches in diameter and 40 feet long. According to Multitek, the 2040XP2 can produce 4.5 to 7 cords of firewood per hour.

The processor is available with a 60-inch carbide-tipped circular saw for a faster cut cycle and reduced maintenance costs compared to bar saws; the circular saw can cut up to 1,500 cords of firewood before the carbide teeth need to be changed, according to Multitek.

Multitek introduced the model in the early 1980s and has made a number of updates and improvements to it since then. Features include V-style log infeed trough with Multitek’s exclusive shuttle grapple carriage for feeding logs, electric operator joystick controls and ergonomic operator seat, and high volume hydraulic oil reservoir with oil cooling. The most recent upgrades include laser guided measuring system, a variable displacement hydraulic pump for improved hydraulics and fuel economy, and improved ergonomics for the operator cab. All hydraulics are located outside the cab, which allows more room and keeps the cab cool; the hydraulics are turned off automatically if the operator gets out of the seat.

For the firewood packaging business, an optional 16-way splitter head is available. It features a unique, patented assembly that utilizes a series of hydraulic cylinders to split round wood to the proper size while eliminating jamming. The 16-way wedge produces wood that is 4×4 from the center of the block and smaller, triangular-shaped pieces from the edges of the log round; the pieces produce a tight bundle when packaging the firewood.

Options include interchangeable wedges for splitting wood up to 23 inches in diameter into four pieces, six, eight, 10 and 12 pieces of firewood. The 16-way box wedge is limited to wood that is 16 inches in diameter. The machine also is available in a 3-phase electric version. Other options include an air-conditioned cab, High Visibility System, anti-vandalism kit, cab radio with MP3 player, and the secondary tip pan (ejector pan).

(For more information about Multitek firewood processors, visit www.multitek.com or call (715) 428-2000.)

The Multitek 2040XP2 has met Rich’s expectations so far, and he would recommend Multitek to others in the firewood business. Asked what he liked about the machine, Rich said, “We had the machine built specifically for us, so we got to select the options. Our 2040XP2 produces high volume, high quality firewood, which is exactly what we need and why I choose Multitek over the previous processor.”

The operator’s cab with air conditioning and heat is essential, according to Rich. “I wouldn’t get one without it,” he said. “We produce all year long. It’s not uncommon for 100-degrees-plus temperatures in the summer or single digits during the winter.”

The finished firewood conveys directly into a Multitek tumbler to clean the wood of loose debris and then inline to a conveyor that empties the wood into metal baskets that are used to load the firewood into the kiln. The kiln-drying cycle usually lasts a couple of days, according to Rich.

Blaze It has a Kiln-Direct firewood kiln which is fuled by biomass, and is considering adding a second unit from the same supplier. Kiln-Direct also offers models that can be heated with gas or wood waste.

In planning his business, Rich decided that he would produce kiln-dried firewood since his market was restaurants needing cooking wood, not people who burn wood for fuel. In the Northeast, he noted, firewood businesses can sell a steady stream of wood that is seasoned, cut and split.

All finished firewood is stored indoors to keep it clean and dry. Bulk firewood is available by the cord, half-cord, and third-cord. Blaze It Firewood developed its own equipment for bundling finished firewood.

Like firewood, cooking wood is kiln dried to U.S. Department of Agriculture guidelines, reaching a core temperature of 160 degrees for at least 75 minutes. The process ensures the elimination of any insects and produces fire-ready wood. As noted on the company’s website, kiln-dried firewood lights faster, burns hotter, and produces less smoke.

Cooking wood is more of a custom business, Rich explained. Restaurants or other businesses may require a certain species, and they may want a particular size wood. “Every customer usually has unique needs that we can take care of,” said Rich. Examples of types of customers would include a steak restaurant that buys wood for grilling, a pizzeria that bakes pizzas in a wood-fired oven, and a restaurant specializing in barbecue. “And each one usually has a specific requirement as far as the type of wood, moisture content, and other considerations,” said Rich.

Rich’s business has pretty much gone according to plan, he said — no huge surprises. “If anything else it’s a little more complicated than you think on the front end,” said Rich, who had no previous connection to the forest products industry before deciding to start his firewood business.

Rich has enjoyed a steady supply of logs, although he knows his supply can be dependent on the weather. “It’s got the potential to disrupt things, for sure,” he noted. His log inventory fluctuates, but generally he strives to keep at least a couple of weeks worth of logs on the yard. Species include maple, red oak, white oak, cherry, walnut, hickory, elm, and ash.

Rich has used his experience in sales and marketing to develop customers for the business. He relies mainly on phone calls to prospective customers as well as visits to their place of business. Although the business has a website, he does not rely on it for marketing nor does he do any advertising.

Rich is very hands-on in the business at this point. He may be on the yard supervising firewood production or in the office, making sales calls. His wife, Marcy, is a partner and active with Rich in managing the business. He plans to produce and store finished firewood year-round although operations could be potentially scaled back in the summer.

Rich has one hobby that he is zealous about: fishing. “If I’m not processing wood, I’m probably on my bass boat,” he said, and takes Marcy and their two daughters, both in their 20s, “if I can get them to go with me.”

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10+ Best & Profitable Firewood Business Ideas [2023]

Our list of 10+ best firewood business ideas:, firewood delivery service, firewood retail store, examples of successful businesses:, firewood wholesaler, more resources:, firewood processor, firewood cutter, related business ideas:, firewood logger, firewood bundle creator, firewood trucking service, firewood stacking service, firewood installation service, more helpful resources about llcs:.

I'm Nick, co-founder of newfoundr.com, dedicated to helping aspiring entrepreneurs succeed. As a small business owner with over five years of experience, I have garnered valuable knowledge and insights across a diverse range of industries. My passion for entrepreneurship drives me to share my expertise with aspiring entrepreneurs, empowering them to turn their business dreams into reality.

WoodSplitterPlans.Com

Firewood Processor Plans

Firewood Processor Plans for Cutting and Splitting Large Quantities Of Wood For Commercial Firewood Production

The handy mans tool for producing mass amounts of firewood just happens to be a Firewood Processor. It happens to be the essential tool for safely and efficiently cutting and splitting large volumes of firewood. These plans are from a forum thread and you can view the full Firewood Processor Plans thread here.

Unfortunately these machines are very expensive to buy. However, most handy man homeowners may be able to construct their own firewood processor for just pennies on the dollar compared to firewood processors you find on the retail market today.

Perhaps this can even lead to substantial profits as well should you find your neighbors and others are interested in purchasing their firewood from you!

To build a homemade firewood processor it's good to start with a set of firewood processor plans that can help you design and fabricate a good quality firewood processor right in your own workshop or garage.

Tools You May Need To Build A Firewood Processor

• Welder - arc or mig welder
• Cutting torch - acetylene
• Hand tools - wrenches, spanners, etc.
• Power tools - drills, cut off saw, grinder etc.

Firewood Processor Components

• Hydraulic motors, Hydraulic cylinders
• 2-way, 4-way, 6-way, 8-way splitting wedge (hydraulically actuated)
• 30" harvester bar / .404 chain / 15 tooth sprocket / run hydraulically
• 22 HP Kohler hooked to a 18 GPM pump to run the saw,
• In-feed, wedge lift, log clamp (not shown), In-feed rack lift
• 18 HP B&S hooked to a 28/7 GPM 2 stage pump to run the splitter
• 2 motors allow for simultaneous cutting and splitting
• Detailed Components List

You will need to choose the type of equipment that you want to power your firewood processor. Do you want the firewood processor to be hydraulic, electric, pto driven, or a mixture of these.

Firewood Processor Splitting Wedge

With a firewood processor, there is no doubt you will be splitting all different sizes of logs. The diameter dictates how many splits are needed to whittle your log down to the proper size to fit in a wood stove or fireplace. For this a multi position splitting wedge like in the diagram above is the perfect solution.

Firewood Processer Dimensions

Here are some measurements for the framework of a fairly good size firewood processor that can handle solid 2 foot diameter logs. Click pictures to enlarge .

16' long log capacity | 24" diameter log capacity | 24" splitter capacity

Firewood Processor Fabrication Materials

• Steel - box iron, - 2x2 square tubing 1/4" thick wall for frame
• Channel iron,
• Angle iron,
• Steel plate, etc.

More Firewood Processor Pictures of the CAD Design Plans

More Updated Firewood Processor Renderings Below

Sprockets on the shafts drive logs down the in-feed. Pitch can be adjusted on the in-feed table by adjustable legs. Hydraulically actuated stop at the end of the in-feed table rocks back the other way to assist with loading the log into the in-feed.

 Firewood Processor Splitter

In order to have the wood pass through the middle portion of your boxed wedge the edges of the cross blades need to sharpen so the wood isn't deflected up or down but allowed to pass straight through. There also needs to be enough space so logs don't jam into the sides.

Firewood Processor Wedge

Renderings show the log pressed half way (12") into the wedge and the assumption is made that they would split the entire way back to the butt of the log at such point. The sides for the out-feed need to be wider to avoid jamming.

That's it, these basic plans are being provided and you can view the complete thread here for additional information and details. Enjoy, and be safe!!!

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Make Machines, Not Payments

Why buy what you can build yourself? Easy-to-follow, step-by-step written plans for various firewood processing machines:

Log Splitters & Grapples

Firewood Processors, Conveyors & Bundlers

Hydraulic Chainsaws

No hard-to-understand blueprints or confusing CAD drawings.

A picture is worth a thousand words - Plans include digital photos of the steps as they are being completed. 

Our plans will save your time and confusion.  Build quickly and easily so you can get to work with the machine.

TAKE THE LABOR OUT OF FIREWOOD

_______________________Firewood Processor and Log Splitter Plans___________________ Click on a picture for more information about each set of plans.

Our Log Splitters and Firewood Processors

Face it, part of the reason you are looking at building your own log splitter, firewood processor, etc. is that you want to customize it to fit your needs. Our plans can be used to make an exact copy, or as a base point to save you time designing your own custom machines. Performance can easily be enhanced with larger hydraulics and more horsepower. I made what suited my budget and needs; you can make a machine to suit yours.  Hydraulic log splitters are simple to build with our plans and pointers. A wood splitter can save you time and labor when making firewood for yourself or a small business. There are numerous log splitter models on the market, but with a bit of resourcefulness you can make your own for considerably less money. 

What Makes Our Plans Special?

As you can see, the plans are easy to read. Photos with labels show each step as it is completed, making it easy to build your own firewood processor. We also offer email support if you have additional questions about the build.

Our plans aren't just an idea of how to make a log splitter (or log arch, firewood bundler, etc.). All of our plans are based on machines we made for our own use, and the plans were written as they went together. No hard to read blueprints or confusing diagrams, just easy-to-follow instructions and labeled photos. 

When you buy plans from us, you get support. Feel free to email with questions about building or customizing your project.

 I was attempting to convert an old homelite XL into a hydraulic driven saw, but couldn't figure the specs for the hydraulic motor. Size, gpm's etc. Your info fixed me right up. Surplus Center does, in fact, have the exact model that you recommended in stock.I have used them for years for stuff for other projects but had no idea what exact model of what brand of motor to buy. You solved that problem in about 10 minutes after I downloaded your plans. I used the XL because I had it and because it had a built in oiler and oil tank that is part of the frame of the saw. I simply (not really simply) recreated the business end of the crankshaft, made a coupling to solidly hook the two shafts together and I'm in business. I'm making my own Limbinator (google it or look on youtube) and didn't spend $2000 thanks to you. Thanks, Fred W. MICHIGAN

At first, when I visited website, I thought that well that site has been long forgotten since it looked so old schooled, but I investigated further and realized that probably some guy, possessing old schooled practical knowledge, is sharing his knowledge. My experience with Miller`s Woodcutting has been very helpful and friendly.  The plans where really easy to follow, but it took some effort to convert measurements to metric system. Respectfully, Silver Kiviselg ESTONIA

 Tell me about your experience !!

I appreciate the ease to follow with which the plans have been written, instead of complicated engineered drawings. Even our children can read them as part of their technical training within our homeschooling, and find them understandable and practically beneficial. Thank you for taking a good approach on the writing of the plans.  Zoran Zaev

Cut more firewood, faster.

Miller's woodcutting.

How to Build Your Own Firewood Processor?

A firewood processor is an essential tool for a handyman and is used to cut and split big rounds of trees at the same time into usable firewood. It can produce a large volume of firewood pretty quickly. It consists of two sections – a log cutter, typically a long blade chainsaw which is welded on the frame, and a log splitter.

In a typical setup, a log is placed on the machine and then lifted onto the upper frame. It then gets pushed towards a steel stop which is set at 22-inch length, which is a common length of firewood. Once sawed, a hydraulic system pushes the sawn piece against a sharpened steel plate which splits the log section to yield the firewood.

There are several manufacturers like Blockbuster, Wood Beaver, Multitek, DYNA, Hakki Pilke, etc who have their products available in the retail market. However, the cost of these off-the-shelf products ranges anywhere from $10,000 to $50,000 depending upon the output rate of the product. This naturally does not suit the pockets of a lot of people out there.

And that is the reason many prefer to construct one on their own using tools and separate components. If you are building your firewood processor, you can save a lot of your hard-earned money and create one for about $2500 only. We aim to provide you with a step-by-step process of how you can DIY a firewood processor through this article.

Component & Material Required for Building a Firewood Processor

Tools required.

Before starting building the firewood processor, you would also need to arrange some basic tools which will help you in the assembly.

Step-by-step process of building a firewood processor

Safety instructions.