Key data
| Stowage factor | 0.40–0.90 m³/t (typical 0.60)14.1–31.8 ft³/t (typical 21.2) |
|---|---|
| Form | Breakbulk |
| IMSBC group | n/a Not classified under the IMSBC Code (e.g. breakbulk or bagged goods). |
| Broken stowage | 18% |
ft³/t values are per metric tonne (1 m³/t ≈ 35.31 ft³/t). Stowage factors are indicative — see note below.
Description
Steel pipes and tubes are shipped breakbulk for pipelines, construction and industry. Being hollow they carry considerable void space, giving a stowage factor around 0.60 m3/t – higher than solid steel – while remaining deadweight cargoes. Their care is about securing, void management and protecting the pipe and any coating.
Stowage & loading
Pipes are loaded by crane and stowed in tiers, often nested to reduce voids, on dunnage and chocked so the round units cannot roll. They are blocked and lashed, with care taken not to damage bevelled ends or protective coatings during handling and stowage.
Hazards & handling
The hazards are physical: round units prone to rolling and shifting if not chocked, heavy weights, and damage to ends and coatings. Rust and wet damage are commercial concerns, and the void space means stowage planning matters to use the space and keep weight low and secure.
Carriage & discharge
Securing against rolling and protecting coatings are the carriage focus, with the stow kept dry as practicable. Discharge is by crane with appropriate slings or hooks; damaged ends, coatings or rust are noted, and condition recorded against the receipts.
Key hazards
- Round units rolling or shifting if not chocked and secured
- Damage to pipe ends and protective coatings
- Rust and wet damage; void space complicating stowage
Loading precautions
- Nest and chock pipes on dunnage to manage voids and prevent rolling
- Block and lash securely, protecting ends and coatings
- Survey and record condition, coating and rust
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.