Valuation, Appraisals, & Timber Cruises

We offer this service for those individuals or companies in need of a more precise and extensive valuation of their timber in preparation for either logging or selling parcels.

We provide an accurate appraisal of the tracts current timber volume and its current market value. This is necessary in valuing estates, dividing land or purchasing land, and selling or buying timber.

The timber is cruised by an experienced forester who systematically measures trees using a series of try out points or plots. Depending upon the timber age and size of parcel, valuation methods may be either 1/10 acre plots, prism (point) cruise, strip-cruise, or in some cases, a 100% inventory. We utilize computer software in computing data collected in the field. This results in an accurate timber estimate.

You can be assured of a thorough, unbiased and accurate timber valuation and appraisal when you contact NW Logging Company for your timber appraisal needs.

How is timber valued?
Determining the value of timber requires not only the precise and scientifically conducted measurement of trees, but also the thorough analysis of timber markets and how value will be recognized in the measured timber. At Northwest Logging, we apply considerable care to both aspects of timber valuation. The objective is not merely to place a value on a measured volume of timber, but to truly appraise the market value of the timber as it stands on the land.

The value of timber as it stands uncut is referred to as stumpage and is essentially the price paid at the mill, less the cost of logging and transportation; this figure is then applied to the volume of permanent timber.

Volumes on a tract of land vary according to the history of land use as well as a variety of biological factors. Prices vary according to market demand and production costs. No two parcels are the same, no matter how close and similar they may seem. It is always best to have every parcel valued to avoid any unexpected expenses or value shortfalls.

Mill prices tend to be competitive with each other and are influenced by the market and the price of lumber. Mills buy timber according to species and grade. Grades are based on the quality and size of individual stems. Most mill price levels are based on the availability of timber and the market for the final product.

Logging costs tend to be more variable and are related to the specific property situation, and include felling the timber, removing it from the woods, and delivering it to the mill. Logging costs can vary tremendously according to the type of equipment used, the distance from the mill, the size and distribution of the timber to be cut, the topographic features of the land, and the condition of both internal and external access. NW Logging is experienced in handling every type of logging job. Whether it be ground, tower or helicopter NW Logging has the knowledge to give you the best harvest possible, under any situation.

Why do owners need their timber valued?
When a property is bought, the buy price is allocated between timber and land. The timber values are used for timber tax purposes, both when timber income is realized and when the property is eventually sold. A timber valuation is a necessity when valuing a large forested property (forestland appraisal), as timber is usually the major price driver of the total value. Timber values are absolutely necessary when buying or selling a forested property for the same reason. Prior to a timber harvest, a timber valuation is especially critical if the timber is to be sold for a single fixed price.