When ordering natural wood, information such as how it is to be prepared, must be included on the order form. This includes the section / size and whether it will be supplied rough sawn or planed.
Timber is normally ordered planed, especially if a large amount is required. Planing rough sawn wood by hand often takes too long, even when using a planer thicknesser machine. The advantage of planed wood is that it already has an accurate and smooth finish to the sides and edges.
Planing at a wood suppliers is carried out in different ways, as outlined below. The type of planing required should be stated clearly, on the order form.