MAZ timber trucks - a wide range of machines with a high degree of reliability

The MAZ company is one of the oldest manufacturers of timber trucks in the entire post-Soviet space, and even today you can see the very first models on the roads. The manufacturer’s equipment is characterized by high maneuverability, good reliability, and a wide range, so you can choose the optimal model for any task.

Timber trucks MAZ

The Minsk Automobile Plant began its history in 1944 to assemble and produce trucks for the military needs of the USSR. Later, after the end of the war, serial production of heavy-duty vehicles for the civilian market began, and after a certain time the model range was replenished with buses, trolleybuses and various trailed equipment.

Design features

The Minsk Automobile Plant boasts a wide range of various equipment for transporting timber:

• Long-frame tractors, called log trucks, with a special body for transporting short-length timber. Such models are characterized by good cross-country ability, which is facilitated by a short wheelbase, and are also capable of transporting cargo over medium and long distances;
• Tractors with a rotating bunk, which works in tandem with a trailer. This design makes it possible to transport long lengths of timber and provides excellent maneuverability, but this design is best suited for local movements, namely from the logging site to the collection base. Trucks have good maneuverability;
• A semi-trailer that can be used in tandem with a truck tractor, which will be the best solution for long-distance transportation of timber of any length;
• Trailers come in a variety of lengths, but most are inferior to semi-trailers. However, they can be used with a log carrier or even as part of a road train;
• It is also worth mentioning separately the manipulators, which are made in the form of a crane arm with a grab bucket for working with wood and pipes. This design is additionally equipped with hydraulic supports to ensure stability during operation.

The newest models of MAZ timber trucks have a telescopic boom and a Z-shaped folding type, which allows the boom reach of about 7 meters in the working position. When transporting, on the contrary, the entire structure becomes incredibly compact, which provides many advantages.

Advantages and disadvantages

Advantages of MAZ timber trucks:

• Excellent maneuverability of all timber transportation equipment;
• A wide range of models that will allow you to choose the best option for transporting timber;
• High quality workmanship;
• Good unification of parts;
• Wide selection of cars on the secondary market;
• Use of modern assembly technologies, as well as the latest developments in the design of all components and assemblies;
• Relatively low price;
• Wide dealer network in Russia.

Among the disadvantages is that the cars are inferior in terms of comfort and equipment to their foreign counterparts, however, their low price, reliability and ease of maintenance make them an excellent choice in their price range.

Ten points affecting the productivity of a timber truck

The forestry and woodworking industries are modernizing and re-equipping today. Do you know that transporting one cubic meter from a plot to a timber exchange can fluctuate around 150 rubles, and this is almost 10% of the cost of the finished lumber. Today the woodworker's blog has made a selection of the main criteria that influence the efficiency of a timber truck on the line:

• Optimization of forest roads using computer technology, more details here.
• A quality road is needed. The better the quality of the roads and the faster the timber truck moves, the lower the cost of timber removal.
• The shorter the distance for roundwood removal, the cheaper the removal will be, this is a return to the point of road optimization.
• Timber trucks on good roads can easily drive through the forest in any area, without causing traffic jams or congestion.
• A separate point can be noted that in addition to the quality of the road, the efficiency of a timber truck is also affected by the geography of timber removal; for example, in the mountains and hills, costs increase several times more than on flat roads. At the same time, in winter, work efficiency decreases.
• During periods of muddy roads and bad roads, in order to reduce wear and tear on the vehicle fleet, round timber is stocked in production. At this time, inspections and regular repairs are carried out on timber trucks, and drivers can go on vacation.
• Use of specialized timber trucks with trailers. The volume of round timber transported by one timber truck is about 20 cubic meters, but a timber truck with a trailer transports about 40 cubic meters - the benefit is obvious. To use a timber truck with a trailer, it is necessary to have high-quality roads. By the way, the volume of wood in one timber truck depends on a number of parameters: Wood species. For example, birch has a greater curvature than spruce, so one timber truck with birch can be loaded with one or two cubic meters less than the same timber truck with spruce.
• The length of the timber also affects the loading volume of the timber truck. Today, there are universal timber trucks that can transport sawlogs and firewood from three meters to seven meters, and sometimes even logs. But if you load such a timber truck with shorter wood, the volume decreases.
• Correct and careful stacking of logs, alternating large and small, allows you to put more of them in one cart, and this will contribute to a larger load volume.

Device

The design of these units is quite simple. The basis is an ordinary MAZ truck, which can also be used for other special equipment. So, what are the different types of technology:

• Log carriers are a base chassis on which a special lattice body is installed to hold logs. Between the body and the cabin a manipulator can be placed, which is nothing more than an excavator arm with grab equipment. Such trucks can be either all-wheel drive or rear-wheel drive and have a 6x4 or 6x6 wheel arrangement.
• Trucks with a swivel bunk have a short wheelbase and are a regular tractor, to which a swing trailer with a second bunk is attached. The logs are secured between them, and the rotating structure is necessary to make it possible to make a turn. A hydraulic manipulator can also be located immediately behind the cabin. For easier transportation, the trailer is lifted onto the truck using a winch.
• For the trailer, a regular frame is taken, on which a special body is simply installed to hold the logs. And since there is no need to transport bulk materials, it can be made of lattice to save material and reduce weight. The semi-trailer is made according to the same principle.

Recommendations for purchasing a log truck

• When purchasing a timber truck, you should pay attention to the quality of the superstructure. Modern superstructures are installed on log carriers; an example is the STS-Forest superstructure. This superstructure is made of an aluminum base made of steel from the Swedish concern SSAB.
• Choose a hydraulic manipulator. With its help you can load cargo weighing more than 20 tons.
• In addition to log carriers, purchase a trailer with 4 axles and reliable bunks. With a powerful fastening, you will transport fairly large cargo quickly and safely.

The lineup

The MAZ company produces a variety of equipment for transporting timber, but due to its excellent reliability, the most popular are the older models, which have a low cost and are still capable of doing the job efficiently. Let's look at the most popular and common models:

MAZ 509

This truck was produced from 1966 to 1978. It is a tractor with a semi-trailer and rotary bunks. Technical characteristics of the MAZ-509 timber truck:

Photo of timber truck MAZ-509

MAZ 500

The peculiarity of this model is that it was created specifically for work in the Far North. It is for this reason that the car received an insulated cabin, which is heated by a high-power liquid heater. There is also a preheater. It was possible to install spotlights on the roof for operation in long polar night conditions. Due to its specifics, the machine is not very common.

Technical characteristics of the MAZ-500 timber truck:

Photo of timber truck MAZ-500

MAZ 501

One of the oldest models, which was produced from 1955 to 1966. For its time, it was an excellent machine, since before its appearance, Soviet loggers had to work with equipment that was poorly suited for working with such a load. The car had a wooden cabin with metal upholstery.

The tractor worked in tandem with a trailer and rotary bunks. You can also find later cabover versions, which, however, were not timber carriers.

Technical characteristics of the MAZ 501 timber truck:

MAZ 6317

A more modern machine that went into mass production in 1991 and continues to roll off the assembly line to this day. During this time, modifications were mainly made to the engine to meet rising emissions standards. In this case, two modifications can be noted, namely: the design of the machine in the form of a log carrier, as well as with a disbanding trailer. Thanks to this, unification of components and assemblies was achieved, as well as the ability to work with different types of forest using familiar equipment. Technical characteristics of the MAZ 6317 timber truck:

In the video, a MAZ 6317 timber truck with a manipulator in operation:

MAZ 630308

This model is a log carrier, which is additionally equipped with a hydraulic manipulator and supports. However, the entire mechanism is located at the rear, and not in the middle of the frame.

This machine is still in production today and is one of the latest developments, which will facilitate maintenance due to the presence of specialized service centers.

Specifications:

Video review of MAZ timber trucks:

Choose

As recommended by experienced specialists, when choosing a timber truck you should pay attention to the following things:

• A newer fleet of timber trucks and fewer repairs will reduce the cost of maintaining the fleet and increase the efficiency factor. Therefore, experienced experts recommend using only new equipment under warranty and service for difficult roads.
• The purchase is made of specialized timber trucks selected for the operating technology of the enterprise. After all, there are not only universal timber carriers, but also specialized ones. Here are the main criteria for timber trucks by which timber trucks can be classified according to logging technology: For example, for each length of saw log there is its own body. The body can be for three-meter, four-meter, six-meter, nine-meter saw logs and also for transporting logs.
• Timber trucks can be from different manufacturers. For example, the Ural timber carrier is more passable and is used for transporting round timber in hard-to-reach forests with difficult roads. But a Kamaz-based timber truck is more convenient for transporting timber along good dirt roads and asphalt.
• The use of timber trucks from manufacturers with more powerful engines is more convenient in places with slopes, hills and difficult roads. But less powerful engines allow you to significantly save on fuel when working on good roads.
• Timber trucks with individual hydraulic manipulators are convenient for transporting round timber from constantly different places, for example, from different plots in the forest. The use of specialized forklifts for loading and unloading is more effective for large volumes of transportation and permanent loading and unloading locations; the presence of manipulators on each machine is eliminated.

And this technology makes it possible to transport about 55 cubic meters of roundwood on good roads. Unloading and loading can be carried out by an installed manipulator. Relevant when transporting timber along a high-quality road at a distance of more than 150 kilometers.

Review of the top 5 best timber trucks

We know what your time is worth and that's why we've put together a short list of the 5 best log haulers on the market instead of making a long list of the top 10 or 20 best log haulers.

The world's best log carrier: Amagabeli Sturdy Wood Carrying Bag.

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Amagabeli has developed a premium log transporter that allows you to transport logs, firewood, kindling and branches of any length.

It's strong enough to carry a heavy load, so you can transport large pieces of oak, maple, etc. from the log pile to the fireplace.

The body of the bag is made of durable waxed canvas for water resistance. You can use it comfortably in snowy or wet conditions.

The soft handles are comfortable and protect your fingers from injury when carrying logs. To tighten the load inside the carrier, there is an adjustable strap in the middle of the carrier.

This convenient and lightweight log carrier is easy to store. You can fold it or hang it by the straps when not in use.

A common problem with a log carrier is that it easily feels dirty after carrying logs on it. To solve this problem, Amagabeli chose a stain-resistant color for this product.

This well-built timber log will last for years without tearing even in the harshest weather. Moreover, Amagabeli provides a guarantee for a certain period of time.

If you are not satisfied with their product, you can exchange it for a new one, no questions asked.

• Material: canvas
• Size: 39 x 18 x 22 inches
• Design: open with soft handles
• Load-bearing capacity: large
• Color: dark brown
• Warranty or Guarantee: 1 year warranty

Check latest prices here

Best Budget Log Tote: Panacea 15251 Log Tote

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If you are looking for an affordable logging truck, then the Panacea 15251 Log Bag is your best choice. The body is made of durable and durable canvas-like material.

Unlike some logs, its handle is made of reinforced fabric rather than a rod. This makes it more convenient to carry.

Since it's a closed bag, you don't have to rush out to the vacuum cleaner to clean the floor after bringing the firewood into the house. This beautiful and shiny log can carry a large number of logs.

Not only is it easy to use, but it is also easy to store as it is a collapsible log carrier. You can also carry groceries in this bag.

Available in black with cream trim. The beautiful color and design make this media particularly attractive in terms of appearance. You can gift this log stand to family or friends on any special occasion.

This timber truck is manufactured in China and the manufacturing company, Panacea, is committed to providing good quality products at a comparatively low price. That's why this bag is available at a relatively low price.

If you often carry heavy loads with this bag, it will tear easily. This is important to remember to increase the life of your bag.

• Material: canvas fabric
• Size: 2.28 x 5.79 x 10.08 inches
• Design: Reinforced fabric handle included
• Load-bearing capacity: large
• Black color
• Warranty or Guarantee: No

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Best Lightweight Log Carrier: CLC Canvas C390 Log Carrier

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The CLC Canvas C390 is manufactured by Custom LeatherCraft and is designed to carry logs easily. This heavy-duty canvas carrier is strong and durable and can carry up to 6 medium-sized logs at a time.

The reinforced leather handles are crafted from suede for added comfort. To make the handle strong and durable, the handles are riveted to the canvas body and covered with thick stitching.

Be careful not to exceed the recommended weight capacity of the CLC C390 canvas frame as this may cause the leather handle to rip.

If you prefer to transport larger and heavier loads, we recommend that you choose a log carrier with a larger capacity. However, this carrier is ideal for women who prefer to carry 6 medium-sized logs at a time.

Custom LeatherCraft provides a warranty on this product. I almost forgot to mention its beautiful color. The bag is white, the handles are brown.

This color combination is attractive and contrasts with regular black or brown logs.

• Material: Canvas
• Size: 17 x 36 x 1 inches
• Design: Open with suede handles
• Load-bearing capacity: medium
• Color: white-brown
• Warranty or Warranty: Limited Lifetime Warranty against defects in materials and workmanship.

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Best All-Purpose Logging Carrier: SC Lifestyle Premium Firewood Carrier

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The premium firewood carrier made by SC Lifestyle is a two-in-one product. The SC Lifestyle Premium firewood trolley works both as a wood cutter and as a firewood transporter.

This carrier is made of heavy-duty material with durable stitching. It is very durable and you don't need a support to hold it open when loading logs.

The bag is large enough to hold a large number of logs at once.

It is designed to ensure cleanliness. Since it is made of waterproof material, you can carry wet and snowy logs in it without getting your floor dirty. The closed design of this bag will prevent debris and dirt from escaping.

The brown color of the woodpile looks beautiful next to your fireplace, without having to buy an additional rack to store firewood.

This journal media comes with a limited warranty.

• Material: canvas
• Size: 14.3 x 11.9 x 0.9 inches
• Design: Complete with nylon handle
• Load-bearing capacity: large
• Color: brown or dark brown
• Warranty or Guarantee: 1 year warranty

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Best Heavy Duty Carrier: BONTHEE Extra Large Waterproof Firewood Carrier

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The BONTHEE Extra Large Waterproof Firewood Cart is strong and durable. Made from wear-resistant, waterproof fabric. The large size of this container makes it ideal for transporting large loads in one trip.

An additional feature of this carrier is the shoulder strap and it can also be carried by two people using the handles. The color of the media is perfect as dirt and dust are not easily visible.

This is a fully enclosed log cart, so your floors won't get dirty with dirt and debris. When you're not using the bag, you can fold it up and store it easily.

It is also a versatile carry bag because it can be used to carry household items such as groceries or to store household belongings.

• Material: Canvas
• Size: 23.62 x 11.81 x 19.69 inches
• Design: Complete with shoulder strap and handles
• Load-bearing capacity: very high
• Brown color
• Warranty or Warranty: No

Check latest prices here

Magazine Media FAQs

Is it possible to stack logs?

Most carriers can be folded for easy storage.

Is it possible to store firewood in timber trucks?

Firewood should not be stored indoors for long periods of time as it may attract insects and may serve as a breeding ground for rodents or other pests.

How to make a self-transporter for logs?

Watch this video to learn how to create your own log canvas: