Key data
| Stowage factor | 1.40–2.20 m³/t (typical 1.70)49.4–77.7 ft³/t (typical 60.0) |
|---|---|
| Form | Breakbulk |
| IMSBC group | n/a Not classified under the IMSBC Code (e.g. breakbulk or bagged goods). |
| Broken stowage | 12% |
ft³/t values are per metric tonne (1 m³/t ≈ 35.31 ft³/t). Stowage factors are indicative — see note below.
Description
Sawn timber is processed lumber shipped breakbulk in strapped packages, frequently both under deck and on deck. At around 1.70 m3/t it is a light, bulky measurement cargo. Its care is about securing the packages, protecting them from moisture and weather, and managing any deck stow.
Stowage & loading
Packages are loaded by crane and stowed compactly on dunnage, blocked and lashed, with deck stows built and secured to the timber deck cargo regime. Stowage is planned to keep the cargo dry and the stow stable, and broken or wet packages are set aside.
Hazards & handling
The hazards are securing and condition: packages shifting or a deck stow working loose if lashings fail, and wetting or weather damage degrading and staining the timber. A high deck stow affects stability, and slackening lashings and rolling are watched through the voyage.
Carriage & discharge
Lashings are checked and tightened as they work, the deck stow is monitored against stability, and the cargo is kept as dry as practicable. Discharge is by crane; securing is released with personnel clear, and damaged or wetted packages are noted against the receipts.
Key hazards
- Packages or deck stow shifting if lashings fail
- Wetting and weather damage degrading the timber
- Stability effects of a high deck stow
Loading precautions
- Stow on dunnage, blocked and lashed, securing deck stows to the timber regime
- Keep the cargo dry and set aside broken or wet packages
- Re-check and tighten 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.