What stock turnover rate should timber dealers target?

Stock turnover targets vary by product category: fast-moving structural softwood (C24 standard sizes) should turn 8–12 times per year (30–45 days average stock holding); sheet materials 6–10 times per year; treated timber 6–8 times per year; hardwoods 3–5 times per year (slower-moving, higher margin); and specialist products 2–4 times per year. Overall blended stock turn for a general timber merchant should be 6–8 times per year.

Stock turnover targets vary by product category: fast-moving structural softwood (C24 standard sizes) should turn 8–12 times per year (30–45 days average stock holding); sheet materials 6–10 times per year; treated timber 6–8 times per year; hardwoods 3–5 times per year (slower-moving, higher margin); and specialist products 2–4 times per year. Overall blended stock turn for a general timber merchant should be 6–8 times per year. Below 5 turns indicates overstocking or dead stock; above 10 turns may indicate understocking and lost sales. Monitor stock turn by category monthly and take action on items below target — mark down, promote, or return to supplier.

Why this matters

This question relates to Timber Dealer Margins & Distribution: Industry Guide, which covers the broader topic in detail. Understanding this specific aspect helps architects, builders, and timber dealers make informed specification decisions.

For full context and additional technical detail, see our comprehensive guide:

→ Timber Dealer Margins & Distribution: Industry Guide

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About this answer

This answer is part of the PuurModulair Knowledge Base — comprehensive timber specification guidance for architects, builders, and dealers across the UK, EU, and Scandinavia.