Strapping Pipe

I had a load of 16" steel pipe, four across the deck and stacked 3 high. I forget the length but the load was 47000 lbs. 4 x 4's separated each stack and they nailed the little cleats on the outside of the 4 x 4's to help hold the pipes in place. Are any straps required on each row or was it just required over the top.

Me personally I would strap each layer individually plus a belly band in the center. Had a load very similar to that last week. Used 12 straps plus two to make the belly band. I stagger them also. So the first strap goes over the top, second strap over the middle layer and third strap over the bottom layer. Then start at the top again and work your way down. After that put in a belly band and start from the rear, should be a mirror image of the front. Some folks may call it overkill but you can never oversight. And I've seen to many pics of pipe going through a cab to take shortcuts.

I've always lived by the rule of, "If I have to ask if have enough straps, I probably don't". It is always better to have to many than not enough. You can't add more straps/chains once the load falls and injures someone. But you can always take the extra few moments to over secure before. As time goes on you will learn what it takes for each load. It's always better safe than sorry.

I would strap/chain each layer on a pipe load like that myself.