How do I calculate timber volume in cubic metres?

Multiply width × height × length in millimetres, then divide by 1,000,000,000 to convert to cubic metres. For example, a piece 50mm × 100mm × 2400mm = 12,000,000 mm³ = 0.012 m³.

How do I calculate the volume of a round log?

Use the formula π × r² × length, where r is the radius (half the diameter). For a log 300mm diameter and 2000mm long: π × 150² × 2000 = 141,372,000 mm³ ≈ 0.1414 m³.

What is the difference between cubic metres and board feet?

One cubic metre equals approximately 424 board feet. Cubic metres are the standard metric unit, while board feet are the traditional unit for buying hardwood. One board foot is 1 inch × 12 inches × 12 inches = 2,360 cm³.

Is timber sold by volume in the UK?

Softwood timber in the UK is typically sold by the linear metre at a given cross-section size. Hardwood is often sold by the board foot or cubic metre. Sheet goods are sold per sheet. The pricing method varies by merchant.

WoodCalcs

Timber Volume Calculator — Calculate Wood Volume

Calculate the volume of timber pieces in cubic metres, cubic feet, and board feet.

Timber Shape

Width

Height (Thickness)

Length

Quantity

Price per Cubic Metre (optional)

Leave blank to skip cost estimate

How We Calculate This

This calculator computes timber volume using standard geometric formulas.

Rectangular timber

Volume = Width × Height × Length

All measurements in millimetres, result converted to cubic metres by dividing by 10&sup9;.

Round timber (logs, dowels)

Volume = π × (Diameter/2)² × Length

Conversions

1 m³ = 35.3147 ft³
1 m³ ≈ 424 board feet
1 board foot = 0.002360 m³

Frequently Asked Questions

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Calculate the total cost of timber based on quantity and price per unit.

Last updated: February 2026

All calculations are estimates. Always verify measurements and material quantities before cutting or purchasing.