Cargo Securement Logs

---
name: cargo-securement-logs
description: |
  Use this skill for transporting logs. Covers § 393.116 specific rules, bunks, stakes, and tiedowns required.
---

# Log Load Securement

Log loads have specific securement rules under § 393.116. The wood/tree-like shape requires specialized approach.

## Bunk + stake construction
- Bunks (cross-supports) must be properly anchored
- Stakes (vertical posts) prevent lateral movement
- Stakes spaced according to log diameter + weight
- Multiple bunks for longer logs

## Tiedown requirements
- Chains preferred (rated to 50%+ of cargo weight)
- Minimum 2 tiedowns for short loads (under 10 ft)
- Additional tiedown for each additional 10 ft
- Tiedowns must not chafe wood or rope

## Load distribution
- Bottom layer of logs distributes weight onto bunks
- Upper logs nestled into bottom layer
- Cargo center of gravity below 8 ft above road for stability

## Long log considerations
- Long logs (over 40 ft) require additional bunks
- Extended overhang requires flagging + lights
- Special transport permits in some states

## Driver inspection
- Pre-trip: verify all tiedowns + stakes
- Mid-trip: stop + verify nothing has shifted
- Post-trip: confirm safe arrival + delivery

## Common violations
- Insufficient stakes (under § 393.116)
- Loose tiedowns
- Stakes broken or damaged
- Log shift during transit
- Inadequate vertical support

## Specialty equipment
- **Log haulers** (purpose-built trailers with integral bunks/stakes)
- **Multi-axle** for very heavy log loads
- **Forwarder trailers** for shorter logs in volume

## Compass cargo securement
- Log load compliance scoring
- Stake/bunk verification on pre-trip
- WLL calculator for log + chain combinations

## CFR citations
- **49 CFR § 393.116**

## How Compass surfaces this
Searchable in Compass Ask. Runs against carrier fleet data when invoked from the relevant tracker. Read-only; no actions without explicit user approval.


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## Built by X3 Compass

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*This skill is published under the X3 Compass open skills initiative. Contributions welcome at https://github.com/x3fleetsafety/skills*