Convert Stere (st (vol)) to Cord (cd) instantly.
About these units
Stere (st (vol))
A stere is exactly 1 cubic meter, but with a particular association: it was defined specifically for measuring stacked firewood. Logs are irregular, so the stere measures the approximate space that a cubic meter of stacked wood occupies (including air gaps). The stere is still used in France and some other European regions as part of forestry traditions. Firewood sales often use the stere to maintain consistency with historical practices. The stere's survival shows how volume measurement often reflects cultural and economic tradition rather than purely scientific convenience, especially in long-standing industries like wood harvesting.
Cord (cd)
The cord is a large unit used in North America to measure firewood, defined as a neatly stacked pile measuring 128 cubic feet (usually arranged as 4 ft × 4 ft × 8 ft). Its strict definition helps prevent fraud in firewood sales and ensures fairness in trade. The cord accounts for both wood and air space, though the amount of actual wood can vary depending on how tightly it is stacked. Despite the prevalence of metric units worldwide, the cord remains a robust standard in forestry, firewood commerce, and rural heating practices across the US and Canada.