Selecting the right lumber delivery service is crucial for construction projects and woodworking jobs of all sizes. With so many options to choose from, it can be challenging to identify the best lumber delivery services to meet your specific needs. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the key factors to consider when choosing a top-notch lumber delivery service, the benefits of using delivery rather than picking up lumber yourself, and provide an overview of 10 highly-rated lumber delivery services across the United States.
What to Look for in the Best Lumber Delivery Services
When evaluating lumber delivery companies, there are several important criteria to factor into your decision:
Reliable On-Time Delivery
For time-sensitive construction projects, you’ll want to select a company that has a reputation for prompt lumber deliveries. Be sure to ask about their on-time delivery rate and policies around late or missed deliveries. The best services will guarantee on-time arrival so your building schedule stays on track.
Competitive Pricing
Balance delivery fees and lumber costs to find the best overall value. Obtain quotes from multiple companies to compare pricing on popular lumber sizes and species. Beware of services with very low lumber prices but egregiously high delivery fees.
Wide Selection of Lumber Types
Look for a company that carries a broad inventory of lumber species (pine, cedar, oak, etc.) and types (boards, plywood, timbers, etc.). This ensures you can get all the building materials you need in one shipment.
Knowledgeable Customer Service
The ability to consult with experts about selecting the right lumber for your project is invaluable. Look for companies with experienced staff who provide advice on wood properties, needed quantities and more.
Logistics Experience & Tracking
Choose a service with proven logistics expertise to handle lumber shipping and provide tracking updates. This minimizes the risk of shipping delays or damages.
Specialty Services
Some delivery companies offer add-ons like job site unloading or stickering and protection of lumber packages. These specialized services can be worthwhile for more hands-off convenience.
Positive Reviews
Check third-party review sites and testimonials to confirm a delivery service has satisfied previous customers. This helps avoid potential issues with poor quality lumber, damaged deliveries or bad customer experiences.
Prioritizing lumber delivery services that excel in these areas will help ensure a smooth ordering and delivery process.
Benefits of Using Lumber Delivery Services
While picking up lumber on your own may seem like a cheaper option, using a dedicated lumber delivery service has some compelling advantages:
Convenience
Lumber delivery eliminates the hassle of renting trucks, hauling materials yourself and unloading lumber. It’s a huge time-saver that allows you to focus energy on your actual project.
Cost Savings
After factoring in truck rental, fuel, and labor costs, paying a delivery fee can actually be more affordable than DIY lumber transport – with less risk of damaging materials in transit.
Safety & Efficiency
Large lumber loads can be tricky for non-experts to haul securely and efficiently. Professional drivers transport lumber safely and quickly using optimized routes and proper load securing techniques.
Order Accuracy
When you pick up lumber yourself, there’s a risk of receiving the wrong type or quantity of materials. With delivery, you can confirm order accuracy upon arrival before signing for the shipment.
Material Protection
Items like lumber tarps, straps, and corner protectors help shield lumber from weather or shifting during transport so it arrives in good condition.
Project Momentum
Instead of making a time-consuming lumber run, scheduled deliveries allow you to keep your build moving forward productively.
Flexible Delivery Options
Many lumber delivery services offer perks like scheduled delivery windows, expedited service, curbside drops, and job site deliveries to best suit your needs.
For medium to large lumber orders, the perks of delivery typically outweigh the costs. Investing in an experienced lumber shipping and delivery service pays dividends in time savings, convenience and quality control.
Overview of the Best Lumber Delivery Services
To give you a head start on your search, we compiled this list of top-rated national and regional lumber delivery companies for residential or commercial projects:
1. U.S. Lumber
With 50+ distribution yards across 25 states, U.S. Lumber is one of the largest building material suppliers in the U.S. They deliver lumber and plywood nationwide, with local service options for many metro areas. Fast processing and their own dedicated fleet help ensure speedy lumber delivery.
Key Features
- Huge selection of domestic and exotic lumber
- Local yard pickup and job site deliveries
- Guaranteed on-time deliveries
- Online ordering & tracked shipping
2. Paxton Lumber
Family-owned since 1971, Paxton carries a massive inventory across two locations in Illinois. They provide lumber delivery across the Midwest with their own fleet of trucks. Paxton is praised for knowledgeable staff and competitive, transparent pricing.
Key Features
- Massive selection of green and KD lumber
- Delivery throughout Midwest
- Small minimum orders
- Discount programs for contractors
3. Tabone Lumber
Serving the Northeast since 1975, Tabone offers rapid lumber delivery throughout New York, New Jersey, New England and beyond. In-house trucks facilitate prompt shipping. An online portal makes ordering and tracking lumber shipments easy.
Key Features
- Rapid delivery throughout Northeast
- Online ordering and tracking
- Stocks many domestic & exotic lumber species
- Specializes in long timber lengths
4. Hughes Hardwoods
This Maryland company provides fine hardwood lumber delivery along the entire East Coast. An expansive warehouse and kiln drying facilities ensure steady supply for orders large and small. Hughes is known for premium materials and customer service.
Key Features
- Hardwood lumber experts since 1976
- Deliveries throughout East Coast
- Huge selection of domestic & exotic species
- Small minimum orders
5. Austin Hardwoods
With 5 yards in 4 states, Austin Hardwoods ships lumber nationwide. Their huge various inventory includes common and rare species sold by the board-foot. Scheduling deliveries is easy through their website or by phone.
Key Features
- National lumber delivery
- Massive selection of domestic & exotic woods
- Small project specialist
- Easy online scheduling
6. LumbermenOnline
This online lumber marketplace aggregates inventory from hundreds of suppliers to ship materials anywhere in the U.S. After comparing options, you can purchase and schedule delivery in one place for convenience.
Key Features
- Huge online lumber selection
- Aggregates inventory from multiple mills
- Shopping/delivery from one website
- Specializes in small/custom orders
7. Gilman Building Products
Headquartered in Vermont, Gilman has been supplying the Northeast with lumber since 1867. Their fleet of trucks facilitates prompt shipping to project sites across the region. Gilman provides a nice combination of old-world service and modern convenience.
Key Features
- 5 locations across Northeast
- Fleet of delivery trucks
- Online ordering & inventory lookups
- Knowledgeable customer service
8. Ganahl Lumber
With 19 locations across California, Ganahl offers both local pickup and job site deliveries to customers throughout the state. Their website makes it easy to browse lumber inventory and request quotes for delivery orders.
Key Features
- Largest lumber supplier in California
- Local pickup and job site deliveries
- Online inventory browsing & quoting
- Large fleet for rapid CA shipping
9. Payeur Lumber
New England builders have relied on Payeur for quality lumber since 1923. Their own trucks facilitate prompt deliveries in CT, MA, RI and beyond. Payeur offers online ordering for convenience but prides themselves on old-fashioned customer service.
Key Features
- Local expertise since 1923
- Fleet of trucks for New England delivery
- Easy online ordering
- Small minimum order sizes
10. American Lumber
Operating since 1956, American Lumber supplies customers throughout Florida. In-house logistics capabilities facilitate speedy shipping across the state for commercial or residential projects. Discounts for large orders are available.
Key Features
- Lumber supplier since 1956
- Local delivery across Florida
- Volume discounts on large orders
- Small project specialists
This list provides a great starting point to evaluate lumber delivery services based on your location, material needs and project specifications. Reputable companies like these make it easy to have quality lumber shipped safely and affordably directly to your job site.
Key Questions to Ask When Selecting a Lumber Delivery Service
Connecting with a knowledgeable lumber delivery service ensures you get the right materials at the right price to keep your building project on track. Use this list of vital questions to engage with top providers and determine the best partner for your upcoming lumber order:
Where Do You Source Your Lumber From?
Understanding a delivery service’s lumber supply chain sheds light on the quality of materials they provide. Top companies work directly with major mills and producers to procure fresh, high-grade lumber.
What Species & Grades Of Lumber Do You Carry?
Review inventory to confirm they stock the specific types of lumber (oak, pine, cedar, etc) your project requires. Also ask if they carry select/premium boards or cheaper common grades.
Do You Offer Local Pickup Or Job Site Deliveries?
Determine if they have local yards for DIY pickup or offer job site drops. Job site deliveries involve extra fees but are extremely convenient.
How Quickly Can You Deliver My Order?
Get estimated lead times for delivery to assess how quickly you can get lumber. Some companies offer expedited shipping for urgent projects.
What Are Your Lumber Shipping & Delivery Fees?
Compare total costs (lumber + delivery charges) against competitors to determine overall value. Beware very cheap lumber pricing paired with steep delivery surcharges.
Can You Provide Advice On The Lumber I Need?
The best companies have specialists to advise you on selecting the right quantities, sizes, grades and types of lumber for your specific application.
What Protection Do You Use During Lumber Shipping?
Ask about load securing, weather protection, and packaging used to prevent damage in transit. Pictures of previous shipments can confirm they properly crate and strap lumber.
What Are Your Policies If Lumber Arrives Late, Damaged or Incorrect?
Understand timeliness guarantees, damage claim protocol and processes to resolve any order inaccuracies. Good providers offer support if issues arise.
Can You Provide Referrals Or Reviews From Past Customers?
Ask for referrals to contact previous clients about their experience. Check third-party review sites to inspect ratings and feedback as well.
Do You Offer Volume Discounts?
Ask about discount tiers for large orders. Significant cost savings may be available based on your total spend.
Getting clear answers to these questions will help you vet companies thoroughly and find the ideal lumber delivery partner for your needs.
Tips for Preparing for Your Lumber Delivery
Once you’ve selected a trusted lumber delivery service, use these tips to prepare for a smooth ordering and arrival process:
Provide Detailed Shipping Address
Confirm your street address and any special delivery instructions to avoid delays or confusion. For remote job sites, provide accurate directions.
Define Expected Delivery Date/Time
Discuss preferred delivery dates with adequate lead time. Confirm if you can select a specific block of time so you can plan to be on-site.
Prepare Access Path for Truck & Equipment
Ensure the delivery truck can safely access your job site. Clear obstacles, widen gates, etc. Have flaggers ready if needed.
Stage Material Handling Equipment
Have equipment like fork lifts, cranes or hoists ready to efficiently unload lumber. This avoids fees for waiting time.
Lay Down Protection
Prepare a level, smooth area and use boards or joists to create a platform to unload lumber onto. This protects materials from dirt and moisture.
Take Lumber Inventory ASAP
Inspect delivered lumber thoroughly against your order for any damage or inaccuracies immediately. Report any issues promptly.
Move Lumber to Protected Storage Quickly
Once unloaded, move lumber to covered storage or wrap waterproof tarps around stacks to shield it from weathering.
Have Payment Ready
Confirm payment amount beforehand and have your check or other payment ready to hand over once the delivery is completed.
Taking steps to facilitate quick, efficient deliveries will get your lumber orders off to the right start.
Common Lumber Types to Order
To help you get the right mix of lumber for your project, here are some of the most popular options to consider:
Dimension Lumber
Dimension lumber (2x4s, 2x6s, 2x8s, etc) are the versatile, general use boards that form the frame of many structures. These are available in lengths up to 24 feet.
Studs
Studs are vertical framing members, most often 2x4s 92 5/8” or 96 5/8” long. They provide structure and anchoring points for walls.
Timbers
For major load-bearing structures, large timber beams (6×6, 6×8, etc) are required. These heavy timbers provide immense strength and stability.
Plywood Sheathing
Plywood sheets span wall, floor, and roof frames to create shear strength and surfaces for cladding materials. Common thicknesses are 1⁄4”, 1⁄2”, and 3⁄4”.
Boards
1x lumber boards are used for lighter framework, trimming, siding, fencing and countless other purposes. Convenient 1x sizes include 2”, 3”, 4” , 6” widths.
Pressure Treated Lumber
Lumber saturated with preservatives provides rot and insect resistance. It’s essential for structural aspects exposed to weather. PT 2x4s, 4x4s and decking boards are extremely popular.
Railway Ties
These extra thick 6”x8” timbers cut from dense hardwoods are commonly used for retaining walls, landscaping, and other outdoor heavy-duty needs.
Fencing Pickets
Thin 1×3 or 1×4 boards are used to construct the characteristic vertical boards in fence panels. They typically come in 6 foot lengths.
Cedar
Valued for its natural decay resistance, aromatic cedar is used for decking, siding, trim, and outdoor furniture. Western red cedar is the most common species.
Carefully selecting the right assortment of dimensional lumber, timbers, plywood, and boards is crucial for building success. Rely on experts at your lumber supplier to ensure you order sufficient quantities. Don’t get caught short!
Helpful Lumber Delivery Resources
To supplement the guidance provided above, these additional resources can help you master lumber delivery logistics from start to finish:
Lumber Buying Guide – This overview from Better Homes & Gardens covers lumber grades, types, sizes and uses. Their tips help simplify the buying process.
Calculate Lumber Quantities – Use this handy calculator to determine exactly how much lumber you’ll need for framing walls, roofs and subfloors.
Lumber Storage Tips – Properly storing lumber protects it from warping and damage. This Family Handyman guide covers storage best practices.
How to Inspect Delivered Lumber – Use these pointers from Fine Homebuilding to thoroughly check delivered lumber for any shortages, flaws or damage issues.
Lumber Delivery Checklist – Ensure you’re ready for lumber deliveries with this downloadable checklist covering preparation, acceptance, and storage.
Mastering lumber selection, ordering, delivery, and storage is a key skill for both DIYers and building professionals. Let the guidance above help you get it right.
Now that you’re equipped with expert insights on selecting elite lumber delivery services, it’s time to focus on choosing the right partner to bring you quality lumber when you need it. Reliable delivery takes the hassle out of acquiring materials for your next carpentry or construction job. Use the information above to evaluate providers thoroughly, ask the right questions, and prepare for prompt, problem-free lumber delivery service.