Loading logs using heavy machinery in British Columbia

B.C. Timber Rate Model: A better way to set your equipment rates

What is the B.C. Timber Rate Model?

The B.C. Timber Rate Model is an online tool that calculates fair and defensible hourly rates for equipment used in B.C.’s forest industry. It gives you a baseline, all-found rate for a selected piece of equipment and lets you adjust inputs like area, steep-slope operations, fuel, labour and more to reflect your own operation.

The model is regularly updated with new data to reflect changing costs and operating conditions across the province.

Key highlights:

  • Built specifically for B.C. logging contractors
  • Covers a wide range of harvest regions and equipment types
  • Download your rate details for records and negotiations

Built with industry, supported by MNP

The B.C. Timber Rate Model was developed as a joint project of the B.C. Truck Loggers Association (TLA), Interior Logging Association (ILA) and North West Loggers Association (NWLA), using data provided by contractors and other industry sources.

To help build and refine the model, MNP convened an advisory committee with representatives from across the sector — including logging contractors, licensees, and service providers — and continues to support the rollout and training.

Our goal is simple: give contractors a transparent, data-driven tool to support rate discussions and help ensure harvesting work remains financially sustainable.

The Truck Loggers Association Logo          Interior Loggers Association          North West Loggers Association          MNP Logo

Why use the B.C. Timber Rate Model?

Check if your rates cover your true costs

See the full breakdown of fixed, operating, labour, profit, and risk components built into each rate.

Bring data to the table

Use printable outputs as a starting point for discussions with licensees, mills, and other partners.

Test what-if scenarios

Quickly see the impact of changes in fuel price, wages, hours, or equipment choices.

Contribute to a stronger sector

Every user and every piece of feedback helps refine the model and keep it relevant for coastal and interior operations.

How to get started

1. Create your account

visit bctimberharvest.ca and follow the prompts to set up a free account. 

2. Choose your area and equipment

Select your harvest region, steep-slope setting if applicable, and the equipment category, type, make, and model that best match your machine.

3. Adjust the inputs

Review and adjust key parameters, including labour, fuel, and utilization, so they better reflect your actual costs and production.

4. Review and download your rate

The model calculates an hourly rate and shows you the breakdown. Download or print the summary to support your internal planning or rate negotiations.

Your feedback helps improve the model

The model is designed to evolve. As more contractors use it and share their experiences, the data becomes stronger and the tool becomes more useful for everyone.

If you notice a gap or have suggestions, you can share feedback directly with the team at [email protected].

Talk to MNP’s Forestry team

Have questions about how to use the model in your business, or want to dig into your cost structure in more detail?

MNP’s Forestry and Forest Products team works with logging contractors across B.C. on costing, rate models, capital planning and more.

Connect with our Forestry team