It is crucial for log trucking businesses to be completely educated regarding secure truck loading methods. Working with logs can present many hazards; which is why long hauling insurance is such an important protection. However, properly securing and releasing logs, along with safe work spaces, can help prevent employee injury.

Crosswise Loading

The key to secure truck loading using a crosswise technique begins by ensuring the load is crowned in a slight arch so that when the tie-downs tighten, forces are distributed evenly throughout the stack, preventing the top logs from shifting.

Auto-tensioners can hold tension on the tiedown as logs shift, and they are recommended to be used for crosswise loads, along with anti-slip devices. Two tie downs should be used per each stack and secured roughly one-third and two-thirds down the length of the logs.

For vehicles longer than 33 feet, a center stake or “comparable device” must be used to divide the load in equal sections. Each tiedown must secure the highest log on each side of the center stake and be fastened below those logs. Tiedowns can either be fixed at each end and tensioned in the middle or fixed in the middle and tensioned at the end.

Crib/Bunk Loading

Tiedowns are not necessary for crib/bunk types of truck loading, as long as the following criteria is met:

• Stacks are secured by stakes and cradled in a bunk.
• Trailer is equipped with front and rear structures that prevent movement.
• Logs are secured with two stakes.
• Logs are solidly packed.
• The highest logs are centered below the top of each stake.

The last rear stack must be tied down if there is not a rear-structure grate preventing logs from moving backwards; and without front-structure grate preventing logs moving forward, two tiedowns are required on the front stack.

If there is a space between stacks, one tiedown should be used per stack on both sides of the space.

Top Precationaries  

• Only qualified personnel should be permitted in the loading area.
• Without uploading stakes, each tie down must be left in place over the peak log.
• Tiedowns should only be released from the side on which the unloading machine operates, unless the employee making the release is protected by effective devices.
• Each stake used to trip loads must be activated from the opposite side of where the load is released.
• Position transport vehicles to provide working clearance between the vehicle and the deck.
• The load should be positioned to prevent slippage or loss during handling.
• Workers could be struck/crushed by logs due to unsafe work practices so safe access to the head rig is critical.
• Log decks should have adequate stops, chains, or other safeguards, preventing logs from rolling down the deck onto the carriage or its runway.
• Be prepared to put up a barricade to stop logs between the sawyer’s stand and the log deck.
• Never allow any equipment that may strike employees to hang over the log deck.

About Tobico Trucking Insurance

Trucking insurance is one of the most difficult types of insurance to obtain, but it doesn’t have to be. At Tobico Trucking Insurance, we are experienced and knowledgeable about the trucking insurance market and the needs of trucking operations of all types and sizes. You need an agent who has the specialized knowledge of this ever-changing industry, and we have the products and the dedicated customer service to provide you with what you need. For more information, contact us any time of day at (469) 731-0707 to find out how we can help you.