Firewood retailers are a mixed lot. Some are highly ethical and will give you a full, seasoned cord of hardwood as promised, but often, the wood is not as seasoned as its claimed to be. If you find someone you like, stick with them. The absolute best way to make sure you get seasoned firewood is to buy it a full year or two in advance, if you are buying hardwood. Softwoods can season quicker. To make sure its seasoned well once you by, make sure to stack it off the ground, under a roof, and ideally in the sun. Don’t stack rows tightly together, so that air can circulate. Seasoned wood is rarely available once the winter sets in unless you buy kiln dried wood.If you haven't bought firewood often, do some research first. The State of Maryland has a good resource page on firewood.