Short answer: A garden centre is handy for small jobs, plants and ready-made packs. A Dutch timber merchant (houthandel) fits better when you need garden timber, beams or project quantities: more sizes, cut-to-size, honest price per metre and advice on species and ground contact. Houthandel Jan Sok in Meppel is that second type - webshop plus yard, delivery across the Netherlands.
Timber merchant and garden centre: the difference
| Topic | Garden centre | Timber merchant |
|---|---|---|
| Timber range | Limited sizes, often packs | Broad: species, lengths, thicknesses |
| Cut to size | Rare | Standard at serious yards |
| Advice | General garden advice | Use class, species, fasteners |
| Pricing | Often per pack / piece | Usually per metre or m², project pricing |
| Large delivery | Limited | Truck, sometimes truck with a Moffett |
Both channels have a place. It is about the job - not “better or worse”.
When a garden centre fits
- You need one or two boards or a small fence part today.
- You combine plants, soil and a small timber item in one trip.
- You want a ready-made screen or furniture, not structural timber.
When a timber merchant fits
- Fence, canopy, deck or sheet piling over many metres.
- You want to choose between Douglas, impregnated or hardwood - with explanation.
- You need cut-to-size, repeat orders or trade invoicing.
- You want quantities calculated before you buy - see material calculation.
Choosing a merchant: choosing a timber merchant in the Netherlands. Range breadth: comparable assortment.
Price per metre versus pack price
Garden centres often show an attractive piece price. Timber merchants more often price per linear metre or m². Convert both to the same unit before you decide. Include cutting, fasteners and transport. A “cheap” screen gets expensive if the height is wrong and you still have to trim or re-order.
Practical example
One loose board for a planter: garden centre can be fine. Twenty-eight metres of fencing boards plus posts and concrete shoes: timber merchant. We regularly see customers visit three shops first and then order in Meppel or online - because lengths and advice meet there. Prefer to get it right first time: checklist.
Project garden timber: buy garden timber at Jan Sok.
What Houthandel Jan Sok adds
- Own stock in Meppel (Drenthe) - you can visit.
- Order online, delivery NL (and BE/DE where applicable).
- No minimum order; project advice for landscapers and homeowners.
- Cutting and clear lead times - lead time and stock.
Request a quote or call 0522 851 551.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a Dutch timber merchant and a garden centre?
A timber merchant focuses on species, sizes, cutting and project delivery. A garden centre combines plants and garden products with a smaller, often pre-packed timber range.
Is garden timber better bought at a timber merchant?
For larger garden projects usually yes: more choice in species and lengths, cut-to-size and durability advice. For a tiny job a garden centre can be fine.
Does Houthandel Jan Sok supply private customers?
Yes. Homeowners and businesses order from the same range.
Do you stock materials beyond garden timber?
Yes: structural timber, sheet materials, sheet piling, fasteners and more via the webshop.