Then you know immediately if you have been shorted. One indication that the wood may not be a full cord is if it is sold by the “truckload,” “rack,” or “pile.” Most pick-up truck beds, unless they have very high sideboards, are not large enough to haul a full cord. Legally, you are entitled to a receipt with the name of the seller, amount and type of wood, and the price. If you don’t get a receipt and you pay by cash, there is little recourse should you later determine that a full cord was not delivered. Most honest cutters will accept checks. This allows a way to contact the cutter in the event of an accidental short, and also allows the consumer the option to stop payment on a delivery.

Technically, a seller cannot be cited unless someone from Weights and Measures is there when the wood is delivered. However, Boitano said they have found that if they have information about who delivered the wood, they are able to make to phone call and any shorted wood is usually delivered. Boitano said most local woodcutters are honest, but to be sure, ask a friend or neighbor who buys firewood for a referral. If you find out you have been shorted, fist try to contact the seller. If that doesn’t resolve the issue, take a photograph and call the Department of Weights and Measures before using any of the wood at 223-6487 or visit their office at 12200 B Airport Rd, Jackson.