I recently bought two 8/4 boards that are 6 inches wide and 72 inches long, which should total 12 board feet. However, when I checked out, the staff claimed it was 14 board feet. They explained their calculation method as width x length x thickness divided by 144, and then they divide by 0.8 to account for what they call 'fall-off,' which refers to losses from milling and moisture. I understand that 8/4 isn't exactly 2 inches thick due to such factors, but I feel like I'm being charged for fall-off twice—with the formula using 2 inches initially and then dividing by 0.8. Is my thinking correct here? Shouldn't I just be charged once for the fall-off?
3 Answers
I can't say I've encountered that either. It seems like a bad practice on their part. If they're going to charge you for fall-off, they should factor it into the price per board foot, not spring it on you at checkout, which feels misleading.
You're absolutely right! They're basically adding a 25% surcharge for fall-off, and that doesn’t make much sense. If they’ve already taken into account the 1.75 inches, there shouldn’t be a need for additional charges.
Exactly, I’ve never seen that before. It feels a bit like they’re trying to confuse you with math to hike up the price!
You definitely have a point. Normally, you shouldn't be charged for fall-off like that unless the lumber is rough sawn. I've always been charged just for the board feet with separate fees for any milling. Sounds like they are trying to overcharge you with that fall-off calculation.
I get that they may have a process, but it feels like you're being nickeled and dimed. It's always been straightforward for me, where the board feet are marked clearly, so you're not left guessing!
Exactly! If they want to charge for quality, it should just be included in the pricing upfront. It definitely leads to mistrust.