Member Exclusives
Joining the National Hardwood Lumber Association (NHLA) gives your business instant industry credibility, access to premium resources, and exclusive cost-saving opportunities. Whether you’re a sawmill, distributor, manufacturer, supplier, or anywhere in the hardwood industry, NHLA membership provides the tools you need to expand, connect, and thrive in the hardwood industry.
Build Trust & Strengthen Your Reputation
- Industry Recognition: Display the NHLA logo on your website, marketing materials, and sales pitches to establish trust and professionalism in the hardwood market.
- Stronger Sales & Networking: Leverage NHLA membership to make high-impact sales calls and connect with key decision-makers.
- NHLA Board of Directors Service: Influence industry policies & standards while building the network of a lifetime.
- Hardwood Federation & Fly-In Participation – Advocate for hardwood industry interests at the highest level with strong allies by your side.
Exclusive Business Discounts Outside of NHLA
Bass Pro Shops/Cabela’s Discounts: Enjoy exclusive discounts on outdoor gear from brands like Ariat, Columbia, Carhartt, and YETI
What You Get:
- Up to 30% off on Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s private label brands.
- Up to 15% off on national brands like Ariat, Columbia, Carhartt, Under Armour, YETI, and many more.
- Customizable products: Add your company’s logo with embroidery, engraving, or decal applications.
- Free logo set-up with low minimum order quantities.
FedEx Alliance: As a member of NHLA, you’re eligible for exclusive discounts¹ through the FedEx Advantage® program. All you need to do is join. No minimum shipping requirements. No additional fees.
Use these discounts to reach your customers across town or around the globe.
You can save up to:
- 75% on FedEx Freight®
- 42% on FedEx Domestic One Rate®
- 40% on expedited shipping
- 20% on FedEx standard shipping
Get more value by joining FedEx Rewards! You already ship daily, so why not be rewarded for it? On the first of the month you’ll receive personalized offers for gift cards and merchandise. Activate your offers before the 15th of the month, then ship to meet the goals in your offers. when the goal is met, you can redeem your reward. As a thank-you for enrolling, you’ll also receive a $10 gift card for your first eligible shipment.2
1FedEx shipping discounts are off standard list rates and cannot be combined with other offers or discounts. Discounts are exclusive of any FedEx surcharges, premiums, minimums, accessorial charges, or special handling fees. Eligible services and discounts subject to change. For eligible FedEx services and rates, please call 1.800.GoFedEx 1.800.463.3339. See the applicable FedEx Service Guide for terms and conditions of service offerings and money-back guarantee programs.
2FedEx Rewards may be modified or terminated at any time without notice. Only qualifying transactions count toward program rewards. See FedEx Rewards Terms and Conditions at https://getrewards.fedex.com/us/en/login.html for additional details.
Exclusive Paychex Discounts
NHLA members can take advantage of special discounts through Paychex to help manage payroll, HR, and retirement solutions. These exclusive benefits are designed to save you time and money while simplifying your business operations.
Discounts Available:
- Payroll Bundles: 25% off
- 401(k), HR Essentials, and HR Pro Setup Fees: 25% off
- HR Pro Administrative Fees: 25% off
How to Access Your Discount:
It’s easy! Just mention your NHLA Membership when signing up, and these discounts will automatically apply.
Labor Solutions
- Exclusive access to post job openings to the NHLA Career Center, plus free promotion in Hardwood Matters and on our social channels
Save on Events & Services
- NHLA Annual Convention – Enjoy reduced attendance and exhibit booth fees.
- Industry-Hosted Training Events – Discounted rates for specialized training.
- Inspection Services – Discounted rates on work performed by NHLA National Inspectors.
- KD Certification Program – Reduced program fees, saving money on exports
- In-House Training – Reduced pricing for on-site employee training from NHLA National Inspectors tailored to your business needs.
Stay Informed & Ahead of the Competition
With your NHLA Membership, you gain access to:
- Hardwire Newsletter: Breaking news, trade updates, market trends, member news, & so much more.
- NHLA Community App: Network, share insights, and collaborate with industry leaders via our exclusive app on Google Play Store & Apple App Store.
- Webinar Resources: Monthly webinars focused on providing real solutions for your business. Attend live for free or view replays in our online store.
- Hardwood Matters Magazine: Published since 1999, Hardwood Matters delivers industry insights, market trends, and member stories right to you. Advertising opportunities are available
- Hardwood & Design Magazine: Our newest publication showcases the beauty, versatility, and sustainability of hardwood, offering expert insights, design trends, and real-world applications set to inspire consumers to incorporate hardwood into their homes and projects. Advertising opportunities available.
The Industry Standard Since 1898
Since 1898, NHLA has been the backbone of industry standards in hardwood lumber. The introduction of the Rules for the Measurement & Inspection of Hardwood & Cypress created a uniform and stable trade system, providing reliability and consistency for the entire industry—elements that continue to shape the way North American hardwoods are traded today.
NHLA Grading Rules Change Process
To ensure that these grading rules remain relevant and adaptable to the evolving needs of the market, NHLA reviews the hardwood lumber grading rules every four years and invites proposals for changes from members. The Rules Change Process includes a crucial voting stage where ballots are sent to all Active Members. Each member has 30 days to cast their vote on the proposals. Any rule changes that receive a two-thirds majority vote from properly cast ballots will be adopted, becoming effective on January 1 of the following year. With your membership, you gain direct access to shaping the future of the hardwood industry at its very core.
Designed by Experts for Your Success
At NHLA, our educational programs are designed specifically for professionals in the hardwood industry, providing the essential knowledge and tools needed to stay ahead in an increasingly competitive market. Whether you’re aiming to enhance your personal expertise or drive growth for your staff members, we’ve got you covered.
Our diverse range of educational opportunities includes:
- NHLA Inspector Training School – The gold standard in hardwood lumber grading education, trusted by professionals worldwide to ensure expertise in hardwood inspection. Now offering in-person and hybrid online learning options.
- Short Courses – Typically ranging from 1-day sessions to 2-week courses, our Short Courses offer hands-on training designed to rapidly build essential skills in specific areas of the hardwood industry.
- Webinars – Convenient, expert-led sessions that cover timely industry topics, emerging trends, and best practices.
From foundational training to advanced development, NHLA’s educational programs are here to support your success at every stage of your career and business journey.
NHLA Services: Your Partner in Hardwood Success
NHLA offers expert-developed services that have consistently proven to help our members achieve profitability, overcome industry challenges, and drive business growth in the hardwood sector.
Dispute Prevention & Resolution
Avoid costly disputes and keep operations running smoothly with our Strap & Seal Financial Guarantee Program. This program ensures that shipments meet or exceed contract expectations, giving you peace of mind and safeguarding your business.
When disputes arise, NHLA is here to help:
- Quick Assessments: Suspect off-grade lumber? We provide a professional opinion without the need to examine the entire load, saving you time and money.
- Comprehensive Inspections: If necessary, we’ll conduct a full inspection of the shipment to resolve disputes efficiently and ensure fairness.
Exclusive NHLA Member Benefits
As an NHLA member, you gain access to powerful services designed to enhance quality and improve efficiency:
- Facility Grade (FG) Certification: Ensure that your facility complies with high industry standards, enhancing your business’s credibility and marketability.
- Quality Control Program: Improve production consistency and product reliability, ensuring your products meet the expectations of your customers.
- Yield Analysis Study: Optimize sawmill yield and production efficiency, helping you increase profitability while reducing waste.
Expand Your Network and Grow Your Business
NHLA membership offers exclusive access to thousands of decision-makers, industry influencers, and professionals across the global hardwood supply chain. Maximize your visibility and grow your customer base through NHLA’s marketing channels, events, and networking platforms tailored to help your business thrive in a competitive market.
Market Your Business through NHLA’s Exclusive Channels:
- Hardwire E-newsletter: Reach a wide audience of industry professionals every week
- Hardwood Matters Magazine: Showcase your brand to key stakeholders in the hardwood industry through this trusted publication.
- Hardwood & Design Magazine: Target architects, designers, and industry leaders interested in cutting-edge trends in hardwood design.
- NHLA.com: Gain online visibility through NHLA’s official website, connecting with professionals across the globe.
- Printed Buyers Guide: Get your business in front of thousands of buyers and suppliers through our comprehensive, printed directory.
- Social Media Platforms (Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, X, TikTok and YouTube): Leverage NHLA’s social media presence to promote your products and services to an engaged audience.
NHLA members stay connected year-round through our dynamic online community, including:
- NHLA Community App: Access exclusive content and stay engaged with industry peers.
- NHLA News Center: Stay informed with thought leadership, industry insights, and updates on hardwood market trends. Looking to submit a piece to share on our News Center? Reach out to us at info@nhla.com.
- Social Media Groups and Channels: Join discussions and interact with hardwood industry professionals anytime.
- Webinars and Educational Events: Gain valuable knowledge and connect with experts through educational opportunities and industry events.
Member Directory, Find and Be Found
Your business will be featured in the NHLA Member Directory, an interactive resource accessible across desktop and mobile. With one-click access to web links, email contacts, and real-time updates, you’ll always be connected to potential customers and suppliers in the hardwood industry.
Sponsorship Opportunities
Get your brand in front of key industry players with NHLA’s member-exclusive sponsorship options:
- NHLA Annual Convention & Exhibit Showcase: The hardwood industry’s largest gathering of the year! Showcase your brand to key decision-makers through fun, interactive ways designed drive engagement.
- Special Event Sponsorships: Align your brand with industry-leading events and increase visibility among professionals.
- Webinar Sponsorships: Position your business as an industry leader through sponsored webinars and educational content.
Advocacy & Promotion: Championing the Hardwood Industry’s Future
At NHLA, we’re more than just a membership organization—we are your voice and advocate, working diligently to address critical issues impacting your business and the entire hardwood industry. Through strategic partnerships, policy advocacy, and promotional initiatives, we ensure the long-term success and growth of American hardwoods. These efforts, along with the work of the Real American Hardwood Coalition and the Hardwood Federation, wouldn’t be possible without the financial support of NHLA and our members. Together, we are investing in the future of our industry.
Advocating for Industry Priorities
Ten percent of membership dues directly support the Hardwood Federation’s administrative and operational funds, ensuring that your concerns are heard in national legislative discussions. From trade and environmental policy to sustainable forestry, NHLA is dedicated to advocating for the success of the hardwood sector.
Promoting American Hardwoods Worldwide
NHLA is a founding member of the Real American Hardwood Coalition (RAHC), a promotional program focused on positioning American hardwoods as the Naturally Authentic choice for consumers, designers, and architects.
Five percent of membership dues, along with NHLA staff time, directly support the RAHC’s efforts to boost global awareness and increase demand for real American hardwood products.
Why Advocacy & Promotion Matter
- Influence Policies: Shape policies impacting trade, sustainability, and industry growth in the hardwood sector.
- Promote Real Hardwood Products: Combat the rise of fakes and alternatives by advocating for the use of authentic hardwood.
- Drive Awareness and Demand: Increase recognition and demand for American hardwoods in both domestic and international markets.
Showcase Your Sustainability
Demonstrate your dedication to sustainable practices with NHLA’s Sustainability Verification Certificate (SVC). This essential resource helps you effectively address questions about the sustainability of North American hardwoods and provides your customers with clear, credible documentation of your commitment to environmentally responsible practices.
Why the SVC Matters
Developed in collaboration with the American Hardwood Export Council (AHEC), the Sustainability Verification Certificate highlights NHLA’s and its members’ dedication to sustainability, education, and advocacy for North American hardwoods. The certificate offers:
- Credible Documentation: Provides proof of your commitment to sustainability for customers and stakeholders.
- Verified Data: Backed by scientific research, academic reports, and input from independent and government agencies.
How It Works
The SVC is issued annually to NHLA members in good standing and delivered via both email and traditional mail. Members can effortlessly share the SVC with customers as part of their sustainability communications.
If you are a member in need of an SVC, please contact our Membership team or call 901-377-1818.
Connect with NHLA Today
Connect with NHLA Today
Get in touch with the National Hardwood Lumber Association and join our vibrant community of hardwood industry professionals, enthusiasts, and partners. We’re excited to connect with you and shape the future of the hardwood industry together!
