Log Volume and Load Calculator Forestry Tools
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Log Volume and Load Calculator

Calculate log volume from small-end diameter, butt-end diameter, and length, then estimate load weight from density.

Editable volume rules and density tables make it easier to adapt the page to regional log grading and truck loading workflows.

Supports Smalian, Frustum, Mean diameter, and custom multiplier rules Calculates batch rows for multiple log lots in one screen Normalizes density to kg/m3 and volume to m3 internally Estimates truck load ratio and approximate truck count from payload

What this tool can do

  • Estimate log volume from small-end diameter, butt-end diameter, and length with a choice of volume rule.
  • Convert density tables to kg/m3 internally so that local units and reference values stay comparable.
  • Track many log lots at once and keep a rough inventory record for the yard or landing.
  • Estimate truck load ratio, remaining payload, and approximate truck count when capacity is entered.
  • Save the current conditions in the browser, a share URL, JSON, or CSV depending on how much data you want to carry.

How to use

  1. Choose the measurement system and the default diameter, length, and weight units.
  2. Enter small-end diameter, butt-end diameter, length, and count for each log lot.
  3. Pick a volume rule and a density profile, then check the resulting volume and weight.
  4. Add truck capacity if you want a payload ratio and an approximate truck count.
  5. Use JSON or CSV export to share the current state, or save the page locally for later use.

Examples

Metric log lot

Input

Small-end 18 cm, butt-end 28 cm, length 4 m, count 20, density 860 kg/m3, rule Smalian

Output

About 0.174 m3 per log, 3.48 m3 per lot, and about 2.99 t total weight

Imperial log lot

Input

Small-end 7 in, butt-end 11 in, length 16 ft, count 10, density 54 lb/ft3, rule Smalian

Output

About 7.42 ft3 per log, about 399 lb per log, and about 3,990 lb total weight

Regional override

Input

Apply a Smalian × 0.92 regional factor and replace the density table with a local reference set

Output

The difference from the default values becomes visible so that teams can align on one shared assumption

Glossary

Small-end diameter

The diameter at the thinner end of the log. Local rules may treat bark inclusion differently.

Butt-end diameter

The diameter at the thicker end of the log. Some regional rules call it the butt-end diameter.

Smalian

A volume formula that multiplies the average of the two end areas by the log length.

Frustum

A frustum approximation that uses both end diameters and the log length.

Density

Mass per unit volume. It changes a lot with species, moisture content, and bark assumptions.

Load ratio

The share of truck payload used by the current load, shown as a percentage of the maximum payload.

Formulas

  • A(d) = π × d2 / 4
  • Smalian: V = L × (As + Ab) / 2
  • Frustum: V = π × L × (ds2 + ds × db + db2) / 12
  • Mean diameter: V = π × L × ((ds + db) / 4)2
  • Weight = Volume × Density
  • Load ratio = Total weight / Truck max payload
  • Approximate truck count = ceil(Load ratio)

FAQ

Which volume rule should I use?

Use the regional rule that your yard, mill, or buyer expects. When no local rule is defined, start with Smalian.

Can I enter mixed units?

Yes. The page accepts unit-tagged values such as 18 cm, 7 in, 16 ft, 54 lb/ft3, and 0.86 g/cm3.

Can I share custom rules or density tables?

Yes. Use JSON export and import for the full libraries. The share URL is for the current operating state only.

Does the truck payload check enforce legal limits?

No. It only shows an approximate ratio and truck count. Always confirm legal and company limits separately.

Can I use this on mobile?

Yes. The page switches to input and output tabs on small screens, and the main calculation stays in the browser.

Important notes

  • Density changes with species, moisture content, bark, and local measuring practice.
  • Volume rules also vary by region. Always keep the rule name and basis visible when you share the result.
  • Truck payload results are approximate only. Confirm the actual vehicle spec, road rules, and company policy before dispatch.
  • This page is for estimation and yard management, not for legal overloading checks or structural design.