Everything You Need to Know About Lumber Types and Specifications

🪵 EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT LUMBER TYPES AND SPECIFICATIONS

The Definitive ERP-Backed Guide for Distributors and Contractors

Lumber is complex. It may look simple on a loading dock, but in the ERP, on the quote, and in the inspector’s eye, every detail matters — species, grade, treatment, and even moisture content.

If you want to prevent jobsite rejections, mismatched bundles, or spec confusion, you need a structured, ERP-powered lumber tracking system.

This guide breaks down everything distributors and contractors need to know — and how to use ERP to make sure lumber is quoted, picked, shipped, and installed right the first time.

🌲 LUMBER TYPES TO TRACK

TypeDescription

Dimensional LumberSPF, DF, Hem-Fir — used for framing and general construction

Engineered WoodLVLs, OSB, I-joists, Glulam — precision structural products

Treated LumberPressure-treated or FRT — for outdoor or fire-rated use

Specialty ProductsCedar, redwood, reclaimed or FSC-certified materials

🔍 WHAT SPECS NEED TO BE IN YOUR ERP?

Species (e.g., SPF vs. Douglas Fir)

Grade (e.g., #2, Select Structural, Appearance grade)

Moisture (e.g., Kiln-Dried, Green)

Treatment Type (e.g., Ground Contact PT, FRT)

Length and Nominal Size

Mill or Tag Number (for tracing origin)

🧠 Include these fields in product catalogs, quote templates, and delivery slips.

📦 FIELD SCENARIO: DECKING SPEC FAIL

A contractor receives 2×6 lumber assumed to be pressure-treated. It wasn’t. Now they’re tearing out decking they just installed.

✅ With ERP: The original order clearly flagged non-treated SPF. Delivery paperwork listed it. Contractor used ERP portal to confirm before install — rework avoided.

📊 ERP FEATURES THAT MATTER

FeaturePurpose

SKU-level spec taggingPrevents mis-picks and confusion

Treatment verificationEnsures accuracy for fire and outdoor code

Barcode bundle tagsTracks bundles from mill to site

Delivery note specsConfirms what’s dropped aligns with what was quoted

Moisture level and grade filtersHelps sales match spec to job requirement

🏁 FINAL THOUGHT

You don’t just sell wood — you sell consistency, code compliance, and construction-ready clarity. The right ERP setup makes your lumber smarter, safer, and more trusted by every contractor on your list.

📞 Want to reduce lumber errors and boost contractor satisfaction? Let’s upgrade your ERP for full-spec lumber tracking.