Key data
| Stowage factor | 1.20–2.40 m³/t (typical 1.60)42.4–84.8 ft³/t (typical 56.5) |
|---|---|
| Form | Breakbulk |
| IMSBC group | n/a Not classified under the IMSBC Code (e.g. breakbulk or bagged goods). |
| Broken stowage | 30% |
ft³/t values are per metric tonne (1 m³/t ≈ 35.31 ft³/t). Stowage factors are indicative — see note below.
Description
Logs are round timber shipped breakbulk to mills, commonly carried both under deck and as a substantial deck cargo. The stowage factor varies widely with species and form, around 1.60 m3/t, making them a measurement cargo. Securing, stability and water absorption dominate their carriage.
Stowage & loading
Logs are loaded by crane and stowed compactly fore-and-aft under deck, with the deck stow built up and secured to the timber deck cargo regime – lashings, uprights and wires. Stowage and the deck load are planned around stability, since a heavy, high deck stow raises the centre of gravity.
Hazards & handling
The principal hazards are the deck stow shifting if securing fails, and stability: logs absorb water and gain weight through the voyage, which, with a high deck load, can erode stability if not allowed for. Rolling in a seaway and lashing loads are watched, and personnel kept clear during handling.
Carriage & discharge
Lashings are tightened and checked throughout, as they slacken with working and with the logs taking up water, and stability is monitored against the increasing deck-cargo weight. Discharge is by crane or by self-dischargers; securing is released in a controlled way with personnel clear.
Key hazards
- Deck-stow shifting if lashings fail
- Stability loss from a high deck load and water absorption
- Slackening lashings and rolling in a seaway
Loading precautions
- Build and secure the deck stow to the timber deck cargo regime
- Plan the deck load around stability and water-absorption weight gain
- Tighten and re-check lashings as they work loose
Stowage factors are indicative and vary with grade, origin, moisture and packing. Always verify against the shipper's cargo declaration and the applicable IMSBC Code schedule before fixing or loading. This is general information, not professional or safety advice.