Tips on buying firewood

A cord is 128 cubic feet of firewood. To calculate a cord, multiply the length, width and height. Here are some tips on buying firewood:

* Ask family, friends or neighbors to recommend sellers with whom they've had positive business transactions.

* When placing your order, ask how the seller measures the wood and make sure those standards are precise and accurate.

* Always stack and measure the firewood on delivery, regardless of how it was purchased.

* Don't pay for the wood until it's been stacked and measured.

* Get a receipt with the seller's name, address and telephone number, and the price, amount and kind of wood purchased. Write down the license number of the delivery vehicle.

* Take a picture of the stack if you think there is less than a cord. If you believe you have a problem, contact the seller before burning any wood.

* If a vendor is uncooperative, call the Missouri Department of Weights and Measures at (573) 751-4211.

SOURCE: Missouri Department of Weights and Measures