Help with log sizes and delivery ideas please

[davidjm55]

We are just getting organised to go into log production and I'm going to 'experiment' with about 50 tonnes of assorted seasoned hardwood timber in our yard in Birmingham. I've bought a new Japa 300 processor and ordered 50 x 1m3 vented log bags and 25 vented barrow bags from Bag Supplies just to get started. I'd really appreciate some advice on the log sizes that sell best, I don't know whether to go for 8" or 10" logs - could anyone give me some advice please.

What I'd like to be able to do is 'mass produce', is anyone interested in taking bulk deliveries of logs in vented bags..??

[Joy Yeomans]

is 50 tonnes mass production? or are you getting bigger, as 50 tonnes will only give you about 60 m3 nets, 75 at best, i will take from you if the price is right?, what will you charge for a artic of 26 drying nets collected from your yard please, thanks joy - cut at either 8 or 10" thats pretty standard sizes

[sandbach-sticks]

I cut a lot 6-8 inch but a lot of my customers on on the narrow boats or have little Wenlock log burners in terraced houses. Some of my other logs are a foot long, but they are for a couple of pubs i supply with open fires. Advertise and decide what is best in your area, standard size i would say is 10 inch and these will just about fit in the smaller stoves. I have gone off vented bags and use potato crates, only because i find it easier with our set up, and we did have some of the vented bags going moldy. good luck!

[davidjm55]

Thanks for the responses, I'll pm you but maybe I didn't make myself clear. I'm using the assorted timber in our yard to see how the process works. We've got all sorts of shapes and sizes, some of which has to be split before going through the log processor, once I've done this I'll have a much better idea of how the process works, and I'll have converted the yard timber into logs that we can sell.

 

I have a 17,000ft2 unit, with 24hr security and access, loads of outside hardstanding and we are only a couple of minutes away from J5/J6 on the M6. I also have my own JCB telehandler and 2 big hiab lorries and I want to see if we can diversify into wholesale log production. Once I've got the yard timber logged up, which will be in about 2-3 weeks I'm looking to buy either standing or roadside timber to process. This is a new venture for us so I have to accept that we may not get it right first time but if I can control and minimise my production costs then I'd really like to supply regular wholesale deliveries to people who already have a retail operation up and running. A lot of people on this forum are very experienced and knowledgeable and I'd like to come and meet anyone who is interested, any good advice is always welcome.....

[Michael C]

Thanks for the responses, I'll pm you but maybe I didn't make myself clear. I'm using the assorted timber in our yard to see how the process works. We've got all sorts of shapes and sizes, some of which has to be split before going through the log processor, once I've done this I'll have a much better idea of how the process works, and I'll have converted the yard timber into logs that we can sell.

 

I have a 17,000ft2 unit, with 24hr security and access, loads of outside hardstanding and we are only a couple of minutes away from J5/J6 on the M6. I also have my own JCB telehandler and 2 big hiab lorries and I want to see if we can diversify into wholesale log production. Once I've got the yard timber logged up, which will be in about 2-3 weeks I'm looking to buy either standing or roadside timber to process. This is a new venture for us so I have to accept that we may not get it right first time but if I can control and minimise my production costs then I'd really like to supply regular wholesale deliveries to people who already have a retail operation up and running. A lot of people on this forum are very experienced and knowledgeable and I'd like to come and meet anyone who is interested, any good advice is always welcome.....

 

Your'e biggest problem will probably be getting enough timber, and also getting it at a price that leaves a margin for both you and the retailer.

Presuming your building is a closed in warehouse, it may not be ideal for drying logs. If I were in your position, I would split into your vented bags, stack outside on pallets to avoid any mould issues and sell to the 'trade' as unseasoned logs. It will keep your costs down, money not tied up for a year or more, and you wont have to worry about moisture % etc.

You could also offer loose loads by the m3.

[Alycidon]

Cut to 240mm, that will fit all stoves. Most of the kiln dried is 250mm, that is a bit tight for some stoves. Downside is the smaller the lengths the more cuts needed and a slower production rate.

 

I would keep it and sell retail only, wood will only rise in price so what does not sell this winter will be perfect for next, yes it means tying cash up but you dont get any interest on it !!. Bit different if you are borrowing I suppose.

 

Sell a high quality product that is ready for use immediately, this will differentiate yourself from people selling crap or stuff that is to wet for immediate use.

 

Be interested to see what output you get from your machine, got a good supplier of spare blades as well, in your area too. E mail me for details.

 

A

[simplythebest]

I would consider taking bulk loads (25-28 ton) of loose logs if the price is reasonable.

feel free to call me on 07961 556465