Key data
| Stowage factor | 0.18–0.30 m³/t (typical 0.25)6.4–10.6 ft³/t (typical 8.8) |
|---|---|
| Form | Breakbulk |
| IMSBC group | n/a Not classified under the IMSBC Code (e.g. breakbulk or bagged goods). |
| Broken stowage | 8% |
ft³/t values are per metric tonne (1 m³/t ≈ 35.31 ft³/t). Stowage factors are indicative — see note below.
Description
Steel plates are flat-rolled steel shipped as a breakbulk product to fabricators and yards. At around 0.25 m3/t they stow very tight and are strongly deadweight-limited. As manufactured steel they fall outside the bulk regime, and their care is about stowage, securing and condition rather than chemistry.
Stowage & loading
Plates are loaded by crane in lifts and stowed on adequate dunnage to spread the heavy load over the tank top and prevent point overloading. They are blocked and secured against shifting, with attention to the sequence so weight is distributed and the structure not overstressed.
Hazards & handling
The hazards are physical: great unit weight, sharp edges and the risk of shifting if poorly secured, all demanding sound lashing and careful handling. Rust and wet damage are the main commercial concerns, so pre-shipment condition is surveyed and any existing rust noted on the receipts.
Carriage & discharge
The stow is kept secure and as dry as practicable, with lashings checked, since seawater and condensation promote rust claims. Discharge is by crane in lifts; dunnage and securing are cleared, and the cargo's condition is recorded against the receipts on completion.
Key hazards
- Great unit weight and point loading on the tank top
- Shifting if inadequately secured, and sharp edges
- Rust and wet damage driving condition claims
Loading precautions
- Stow on adequate dunnage to spread load and avoid point overloading
- Block and lash securely against shifting
- Survey and record pre-shipment condition and any 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.