The best way for landowners actively selling timber to protect themselves from timber theft is to have a well written contract. At a minimum, the contract should spell out specifics such as: Type of work to be done; Consequences if the contract is not followed as agreed upon; Methods used to verify the type and amount of wood harvested; Documentation to be provided (such as load or scale tickets); How the process will be monitored; Consequences for not staying within the boundary lines; Length of contract; Payment terms.