How log weight is estimated
The calculator treats the log as a cylinder and multiplies its volume by the species' green (freshly cut) weight per cubic foot:
Volume = π × (diameter in ft ÷ 2)² × length
Weight = volume × green weight per cu ft
A 20-inch red oak log 10 ft long is about 21.8 cubic feet and weighs roughly 1,370 lb green. Real logs taper and hold different amounts of water, so expect plus or minus 15%.
Doyle log rule
Board feet = (diameter − 4)² ÷ 16 × length
The Doyle rule is the common rule for hardwood logs east of the Mississippi. It underestimates small logs, so sawmills often yield more boards than it predicts from logs under 16 inches.
Weight per board foot, green and dry
Weight per cubic foot divided by 12. Dry values are air-dried at about 12% moisture, rounded.
| Species | Green lb per cu ft | Green lb per board foot | Dry lb per cu ft | Dry lb per board foot |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Red oak | 63 | 5.2 | 44 | 3.7 |
| White oak | 62 | 5.2 | 47 | 3.9 |
| Sugar maple | 56 | 4.7 | 44 | 3.7 |
| Black walnut | 58 | 4.8 | 38 | 3.2 |
| White ash | 48 | 4.0 | 41 | 3.4 |
| Yellow poplar | 38 | 3.2 | 29 | 2.4 |
| Southern yellow pine | 50 | 4.2 | 36 | 3.0 |
| Eastern white pine | 36 | 3.0 | 25 | 2.1 |
These are approximate values based on USDA Wood Handbook data. For firewood, see how much a cord of wood weighs. For board feet in a log, use the log board foot calculator.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a cubic foot of green oak weigh?
About 62 to 64 lb for red and white oak when freshly cut.
Can my trailer carry this log?
Compare the estimated weight plus 15% against the trailer's payload rating, and secure logs with chains rated for the load.
Which log rule should I use?
Doyle is common for hardwoods in the eastern US, Scribner in the West, and the International 1/4-inch rule is the most accurate for small logs.
How much does a board foot of lumber weigh?
Green red oak weighs about 5.3 lb per board foot, and air-dried about 3.7 lb. A board foot is 1/12 of a cubic foot, so divide the weight per cubic foot by 12.
How do I calculate the weight of a log?
Find its volume as a cylinder, then multiply by the weight per cubic foot for the species. A 20 inch by 10 ft red oak log is 21.8 cubic feet and weighs about 1,370 lb green.
Sources
Reference charts
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