Log Scale
Calculator

1. Measure the small-end diameter. Place a diameter tape or caliper on the small end of the log (the narrower end), inside the bark. If you don't have a diameter tape, measure the circumference and divide by 3.14. Record to the nearest inch — most commercial scales round down.

2. Measure the length. Standard sawlog lengths are 8, 10, 12, 14, and 16 feet. Logs are typically scaled in even-foot lengths; fractional feet are rounded down. Add a 2–4 inch trim allowance when bucking if you want to ship at exact lengths.

3. Read the board-foot yield. Doyle, Scribner, and International 1/4" each return a different number for the same log — that's expected. Buyers specify which scale they pay on, so match your estimate to the scale the mill uses. In Appalachia, that's almost always Doyle.

4. Scale the whole load. A truckload typically holds 15–25 hardwood sawlogs depending on size and species. Add up the per-log board-foot count to estimate total MBF (thousand board feet). Multiply by the mill's current price per MBF to estimate gross load value.

Why do the three scales give different numbers? Each rule uses a different model for estimating how much lumber can be sawn from a log. Doyle was developed in the 1800s and penalizes small logs heavily — a 10-inch log shows much less yield than the log actually produces. Scribner and International are more accurate but aren't the standard in hardwood markets.

Which scale should I use? Ask the mill you're selling to. In Kentucky, Ohio, West Virginia, Virginia, and Tennessee, Doyle is nearly universal. In the Midwest and Pacific Northwest, Scribner shows up more. If you're cruising standing timber for an appraisal, use International 1/4" — it's the closest to actual lumber yield.

Does this calculator account for defects? No — this gives you the gross scale only. Real mill scalers deduct for heart rot, sweep, ring shake, and other defects. Expect 10–30% deductions on average hardwood logs, more on veterans or storm-damaged timber. Always get a final scale at the gate before trucking.

What's MBF? Thousand board feet. 1 MBF = 1,000 board feet. Hardwood log prices are quoted per MBF Doyle — so a "$500/MBF" White Oak price means $500 per 1,000 board feet as measured by the Doyle rule.

Once you know your estimated volume, the two most common next moves:

• Check current prices — our timber price tracker shows per-MBF pricing for all 25 major species, updated regularly.
• List your load — post a free listing with your species, diameter, length, and estimated volume. Buyers across the region search by species and location.
• Get a professional cruise — if you have standing timber rather than cut logs, a consulting forester can walk the tract and give you a proper appraisal with defect estimates. Typically $8–$15 per acre.