How to Find Reputable Log Buyers(lumber and veneer)

[chopper888]

I am just getting into logging and have been doing some contract logging for a timber buyer.  I would like to begin handling the sale myself on some deals in the near future.  I have done my research for Illinois and I know what the requirements are for licensing/bonding/etc.  My main issue now is finding reputable buyers to come and bid on the logs once cut.  Does anyone know of a good way to locate buyers?  I have a couple lined up, but I know there are more out there.  As I'm learning, the buyers are the holy grail of this industry.  It seems that nobody wants to share who they use to buy the timber.  I guess it's job security for them.  Thank you for any advice!

[JDeere]

Get a copy of a current Norther Logger & Timber Processing magazine and look in the classifed section. There are always a number of buyers listed there. It may be a good place to start.

[Ohio_Bill]

I have had good luck selling directly to the mill . We have several large mills in the area . I stay in contact with there log buyer and find out what they are needing and that is what I take them . I don't take stuff they don't need so they have been, IMO more than fair with me .  By having my own mill I only sell the logs that bring a higher % profit in log form compared to me sawing them and on higher grade logs I get more out of the log than I could the lumber .

[MJD]

Try meister log and lumber in Wi., I hear they buy in 5 states.

[westyswoods]

I am in the same situation looking for reputable buyers. Meisters has been mentioned although it is my understanding they have been bought out by a larger corp and now are Midwest Mills or something like that. One of their processing plants is in Reedsberg, WI.

Will let you know how I do when get some contacts. Supposed to have one buyer come down this week and look.

[stavebuyer]

The state DNR maintains/publishes a listing of all Timber Buyer License holders which includes all out of state buyers licensed to buy in IL. Been a few years since I worked in IL but I think that list contains contact information. Your right in thinking that the folks your planning on competing with probably won't volunteer to tell you who they are dealing with. You may find that buyers are reluctant or unwilling to bid against local producers that have been supplying them on a long term basis. I'd wager you would have better luck bringing in someone new.

[Autocar]

Here in Ohio the Department of Forestry has a list of buyers and ask alot of question your weed alot of fellows out pretty quick.

[craigc]

What part of Central Illinois are you from?  Also what kind of logs are you dealing with most, Grade or Blocking?

[NWP]

I send mine from MO to Meister in Reedsburg WI.  Midwest Hardwoods and Meister are owned by the same outfit.  Call them and they can probably put you in contact with a buyer for your area.  I sell them walnut, white oak, and cherry.