Two of Pakistan's most widely traded softwoods compete head-to-head in nearly every industrial application. But the real comparison starts only after you factor in moisture content, machining waste and logistics — not just the per-cubic-foot price tag.
Mechanical properties at a glance
Yellow Pinewood averages 410–470 kg/m³ at 12% MC, with a Janka side hardness around 380 lbf. Deodar (Cedrus deodara) runs 430–530 kg/m³ and 360–410 lbf. On paper they're close. In practice, the dimensional stability of kiln-dried pine gives it a significant edge for precision joinery.
Cost per usable cubic metre
Once you subtract machining waste (pine: 6–8%; deodar: 9–12%) and adjust for typical moisture content at delivery, Yellow Pine delivers roughly 15% more usable volume per rupee spent in packaging-grade applications.
About the author — Saima Malik manages timber procurement at NatureTech. She oversees the supplier network across Punjab and KP and negotiates forward contracts for export-grade shipments.
