1. Product, grade or application
If you know the product or grade, include it. If you do not, describe what the timber needs to do or the finished application so the requirement can be narrowed from there.
Timber buyer guide · Sutcliffe Trading
Published 21 September 2026
How to specify
a timber enquiry.
For a useful first response, include the product or grade, dimensions, quantity or volume, treatment requirement and delivery point. If some of those details are still open, describe the application and our team can help narrow the requirement.
2. Dimensions
Give the required thickness, width and length, including any flexibility that would still work for the job.
3. Quantity or volume
State the number of pieces, packets or commercial volume you expect to require. If the quantity is not final, an estimated range is still useful.
4. Treatment requirement
If treatment is required or already specified for the project, include that requirement. If it is still open, make the intended application clear.
5. Delivery point
Include the delivery town, city or project location so freight and practical supply options can be considered from the start.
You do not need every field finalised before contacting Sutcliffe Trading. If you know the intended application, approximate volume, delivery location and the constraints that matter, send those first.
That gives the timber team enough context to discuss practical supply options rather than forcing a product choice before the requirement is clear.
Application: Commercial outdoor project
Product: Treated Radiata Pine posts and rails
Dimensions: Required sizes and lengths listed
Volume: Estimated commercial quantity
Treatment: Project requirement included if known
Delivery: Town, city or site location
The point is not the format. It is giving enough context for the supplier to understand the requirement.