so we have 20. the boxes of charcoal doesn't go bad so if John T goes for 10 boxes then we have 30. if you are like me who grills or smokes all year round at least 3 days a week, thats using 4-1/4 lbs a week x 52= 220lbs or 10 boxes. however to be on the conservative side you will have enough for 1.5 yrs and its a lot cheaper doing it by the skid vs 1 box with shipping is close to 50-60 bucks. just saying