If you’ve ever received a shipment of wood and asked yourself how to tell if lumber is treated, you’re not alone.
Manufacturers and industrial buyers often encounter this question, and the answer matters. Using the wrong type of lumber in industrial applications can lead to compliance issues, safety risks, or even damaged products.
At Conner Industries, we know the difference between treated and untreated lumber can be critical for your business.
That’s why we’ve put together five easy ways you can confirm if your lumber has been treated.
1. Check for Lumber Stamps and Tags
One of the simplest ways to tell if lumber is treated is to look for a stamp or tag.
Lumber stamps are industry-standard markings pressed or printed directly on the wood. They usually identify the species, grade, and treatment information.
- Standard abbreviations include ACQ (Alkaline Copper Quaternary), Bor (Borate), or FDN (Foundation).
- Tags may provide additional details, such as the treating company, the chemical used, or the intended application.
This is often the fastest and most reliable method for manufacturers, especially those handling bulk orders of dimensional lumber, pallets, or crates.
2. Review the Fact Sheet from Your Supplier
Reviewing the product’s fact sheet is another dependable way to tell if lumber is treated.
Reliable lumber suppliers, like Conner Industries, provide documentation with each order that specifies:
- The size and species of lumber
- Any treatments performed
- Compliance with standards such as ISPM-15 (necessary for export packaging)
Ask your supplier if your shipment didn’t come with a fact sheet. For industrial buyers, documentation confirms treatment and supports traceability for audits and customer requirements.
3. Look for Visual Cues
When paperwork isn’t available, your eyes can still help you determine how to tell if lumber is treated.
Treated wood often displays a greenish or bluish tint, caused by the chemicals used in the process.
- Freshly treated wood often has a darker, richer green tone.
- Older treated lumber may fade, but cutting into the board usually reveals color differences beneath the surface.
While visual inspection isn’t perfect, it’s a valuable method for busy manufacturers who need to make a quick call in the field.
4. Use the Smell Test
Chemically treated lumber carries a distinct odor that can be a strong clue.
If you’re still wondering how to tell if lumber is treated, try smelling the wood:
- Treated lumber often smells oily or like chemicals.
- Untreated lumber will smell more natural, like pine, cedar, or the species itself.
This method is best for newer shipments since the odor fades over time.
As always, handle treated wood in a well-ventilated space to minimize exposure.
5. Ask Your Supplier Directly
At the end of the day, the easiest and most foolproof way to tell if lumber is treated is to ask the supplier who provided it.
Reputable packaging suppliers like Conner Industries won’t leave you guessing. We’re committed to transparency, and we’ll make sure you have full documentation, visual assurance, and clear communication about the type of lumber you’re purchasing.
Read: Why You Need Lumber Suppliers
Why It Matters for Manufacturers
Knowing how to tell if lumber is treated isn’t just a lumberyard trick; it’s a business necessity.
Treated wood impacts compliance, product safety, and long-term durability. Whether you’re building pallets for heavy steel coils, crates for glass shipments, or protective packaging for sensitive equipment, choosing the right lumber is critical.
At Conner Industries, we’ve worked with manufacturers for over 40 years, providing industrial lumber and integrated packaging solutions that protect products, reduce risk, and support efficient supply chains.
Read: 5 Myths of the Lumber Industry
Partner with Conner Industries
Need help sourcing the right lumber or packaging solutions for your operation? Conner Industries is here to guide you, from identifying treated lumber to designing complete protective packaging systems.
Contact Conner Industries today and let’s build packaging solutions that protect your products and your bottom line.
