If you have black walnut trees on your property, you might be sitting on a valuable natural resource. Black walnut is one of the most sought-after hardwoods in the U.S., used for furniture, flooring, gunstocks, and veneer. Some trees can be worth thousands of dollars, but finding the right buyer is crucial to getting the best price.
Before you start cutting trees down, you need to know:
✔ Who buys black walnut trees?
✔ How much is a black walnut tree worth?
✔ Where can you find timber buyers near you?
This guide will walk you through the selling process, from valuing your trees to finding the best buyers in your area.
How Much Is a Black Walnut Tree Worth?
The value of a black walnut tree depends on:
1. Tree Size (Diameter & Height)
🌳 Larger trees = higher value.
- Trees with a diameter of 20 inches or more are most valuable.
- 40-inch diameter trees can be worth $3,000+ each.
2. Tree Quality
💰 Premium veneer-grade trees fetch the highest price.
- Straight trunks with no branches or knots are ideal.
- Logs without defects are worth more to veneer buyers.
3. Current Market Prices
📈 Prices fluctuate based on supply and demand.
- Average sawmill price: $1 – $2 per board foot.
- Veneer quality logs: $5 – $10 per board foot.
💡 Pro Tip: A professional forester can appraise your trees before selling.
Where to Sell Black Walnut Trees Near You
Finding the right buyer is key to maximizing your profits. Here are your best options:
1. Timber Buyers & Logging Companies
Many logging companies specialize in buying standing timber. They often harvest and transport the logs for you.
🔎 How to Find Timber Buyers Near You:
✅ Search “black walnut tree buyers near me” on Google.
✅ Contact your state forestry department for licensed buyers.
✅ Check local sawmills and logging businesses.
🔹 Example Timber Buyers:
- American Walnut Company – Buys high-quality black walnut logs nationwide.
- Timber Works – Buys walnut and oak logs in multiple states.
- Beiler’s Sawmill (PA) – Specializes in black walnut timber sales.
📞 Before selling, ask:
✔ What price per board foot do you offer?
✔ Do you provide harvesting and transportation?
✔ Do you charge fees for tree removal?
2. Sawmills That Buy Black Walnut Logs
Sawmills process logs into lumber, making them a great option for selling black walnut trees.
🔎 How to Find Local Sawmills:
✅ Search “hardwood sawmills near me” on Google.
✅ Use directories like Wood-Mizer’s sawmill locator.
✅ Check your state’s Forestry Commission website.
🔹 Example Sawmills That Buy Black Walnut:
- Baillie Lumber Co. (NY, PA, OH, KY)
- Walnut Timber Buyers (IL, MO, IN, KY)
- Kretz Lumber Co. (WI, MI, MN)
📞 Ask sawmills:
✔ What’s your current price for black walnut logs?
✔ Do you buy standing trees, or do I need them cut first?
✔ Do you accept lower-quality logs?
3. Veneer Buyers for High-Value Trees
If your walnut trees are straight, large, and knot-free, they may qualify for veneer buyers, who pay the highest prices.
🔎 How to Find Veneer Buyers:
✅ Search “veneer log buyers near me”.
✅ Contact high-end furniture makers or veneer mills.
🔹 Top Veneer Buyers in the U.S.:
- Superior Veneer & Plywood (IN, OH, KY, WV, PA)
- Abenaki Timber (Northeast U.S.)
- Pennsylvania Veneer Logs (PA, NY, NJ)
📞 Ask veneer buyers:
✔ What are your minimum size requirements?
✔ Do you provide log grading services?
✔ How do you determine pricing?
4. Selling to Private Woodworkers & Lumber Dealers
Many small-scale woodworkers and furniture makers buy black walnut logs or slabs for custom projects.
🔎 Where to Find Buyers:
✅ List your trees on Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, or Woodworking Forums.
✅ Contact local furniture shops, cabinet makers, or wood suppliers.
✅ Post in Facebook Groups like “Hardwood Lumber Exchange.”
📞 Before selling, ask:
✔ Do you buy logs, or do I need to cut them into slabs?
✔ What sizes and quality do you need?
✔ Will you pick up the wood, or do I need to transport it?
How to Sell Your Black Walnut Trees for the Best Price
🚀 Follow these steps to maximize your profits when selling black walnut trees:
Step 1: Get Your Trees Appraised
- Hire a forester or timber consultant to estimate your trees’ value.
- Check the diameter, height, and quality of your trees.
Step 2: Contact Multiple Buyers
- Reach out to at least 3 timber buyers or sawmills.
- Get written offers to compare prices.
Step 3: Understand Harvesting Costs
- Some buyers cut and remove the trees for free.
- Others charge a fee for logging services.
Step 4: Get a Contract in Writing
- Ensure the price, payment terms, and tree removal process are documented.
- Read the fine print before signing!
💡 Pro Tip: Never take the first offer—shop around for the best deal!
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Selling Black Walnut Trees
🚫 Selling Without an Appraisal – You might undervalue your trees.
🚫 Not Checking Buyer Reviews – Avoid shady logging companies!
🚫 Ignoring the Contract – Always get the terms in writing.
🚫 Selling to the First Buyer – Compare multiple offers first.
Final Thoughts: Who Buys Black Walnut Trees Near You?
Black walnut trees can be extremely valuable, but finding the right buyer is key.
Best Places to Sell Black Walnut Trees:
🏆 Timber buyers & loggers – Best for quick sales.
🏆 Sawmills – Best for selling multiple trees.
🏆 Veneer buyers – Best for top-dollar prices.
🏆 Private woodworkers – Best for custom wood sales.
💡 Before selling, always get multiple offers and check buyer credentials!