About

The lumber industry relies on volume measurements (cubic meters) for bulk pricing and shipping, while construction sites operate on linear lengths. This calculator bridges the gap by computing the volumetric content of timber based on cross-sectional dimensions. It handles both sawn timber (rectangular prisms) and round logs (cylinders). Accuracy in these calculations is critical for logistics, as shipping container limits are often defined by volume, and pricing contracts are frequently negotiated per cubic meter.

For round logs, this tool uses the standard geometric cylinder formula. Note that specific forestry rules (like Hoppus or Huber's method) typically account for tapering and bark loss, which results in lower usable volumes than the pure geometric volume shown here.

Formulas

Rectangular Timber (Boards/Beams):

V = L × W × H

Round Timber (Logs/Poles):

V = L × π × d²4

Where dimensions are converted to meters before multiplication.

Reference Data

Timber Type	Dimensions (mm)	Length for 1 m³	Volume per 1m (m³)
Batten	25 x 50	800.0 m	0.00125
Joist	50 x 100	200.0 m	0.00500
Structural Beam	75 x 200	66.67 m	0.01500
Post	100 x 100	100.0 m	0.01000
Sleeper	200 x 100	50.0 m	0.02000
Round Log	Ø 200	31.83 m	0.03142
Round Log	Ø 400	7.96 m	0.12566

Frequently Asked Questions

No, this tool outputs Cubic Meters (m³), which is the metric standard. 1 m³ is approximately 424 Board Feet.

For geometric estimates, measure the diameter at the midpoint of the log's length. This provides the most accurate average volume without using complex forestry formulas.

Standard forestry volume usually excludes bark ("under bark" measure). If you measure over the bark, you will overestimate the usable wood volume by 10-15%.