TS EN 13556

TS EN 13556 is a terminology standard for the naming of tree species used in round and sawn timber traded in Europe. Its central purpose is to help ensure that the same timber species is understood consistently across countries, languages, and commercial contexts. The focus is therefore on nomenclature and identification in the timber trade, rather than on performance requirements or test methods.

Why common timber nomenclature matters

In timber commerce, one species may be known by local, trade, and scientific names at the same time. In a multilingual European market, that can create confusion, especially when specifications, invoices, or technical documents rely on species names. Distinguishing between hardwoods and softwoods is also important in general technical practice, because those groups are often associated with different customary uses, densities, workability characteristics, and market traditions. This standard addresses naming and terminology; it does not define material properties or prescribe testing.

What this standard covers

• Commercial hardwood and softwood timbers used in Europe
• Species names used in the context of round timber and sawn timber
• A common terminology framework across languages and trade usage
• Standardised nomenclature for timber identification and documentation

In practical terms, TS EN 13556 supports clearer communication in the timber sector by bringing species names into a shared reference framework. In general technical terms, a terminology standard explains what a product is called; it does not, by itself, determine how the timber is graded, tested, or certified.