How to test timber origin

Scientific origin testing can verify whether a product's declared harvest origin is correct using the chemical signatures in wood compared against verified reference data. Before commissioning any testing, there are three things to confirm.

Before you test

Check whether your product is testable: Testing requires real wood large enough for laboratory analysis. The traded sample collection guide covers what materials are suitable, minimum sample sizes, and how to prepare and ship samples. Download our Traded sample collection guide (PDF)

Check whether your claim is testable: You need a declared harvest origin and a species or genus. Both should appear in your supplier documentation or certification records. If either is missing or vague, clarify with your supplier before proceeding.

Check whether reference data exist: The Data Explorer shows where World Forest ID reference data supports origin verification — by species and by region. Use it to confirm your question is answerable before commissioning testing.

Explore our reference data coverage with our Data Explorer

After testing

Laboratory results are evaluated against World Forest ID spatial origin models. The output is an evaluation report assessing whether a sample's chemistry is consistent with its claimed harvest location at national or sub-national level. Find out about our Evaluation Platform

Laboratories we work with

These laboratories work with World Forest ID to provide scientific testing that supports origin verification. Testing may be arranged through World Forest ID or by contacting a laboratory directly.

Adelaide University adiff@adelaide.edu.au / adelaide.edu.au

Fera Science Ltd simon.kelly@fera.co.uk / fera.co.uk

Oritain ogerman@oritain.com / oritain.com

For questions about data coverage, laboratory access, or the evaluation process, contact info@worldforestid.org