This thesis examines the complex logistical, technical, and safety challenges characteristic of the transport of unprocessed timber. The transport of logs represents one of the key—and at the same time most demanding—links in the entire forestry and timber supply chain, as it serves as a direct link between the logging phase in the forest and industrial processing. Unlike standardized cargo, logs are characterized by irregular shapes, heavy weight, varying moisture content, and a slippery surface, which requires carriers to possess specific expertise and utilize specialized transport equipment and vehicle superstructures.
In this paper, we examine the hypothesis that, due to the specific nature of the cargo and the challenging conditions of forest roads, the transport of logs is significantly more demanding in terms of logistics, technology, and safety than the transport of standardized industrial goods, which are typically carried in closed trailers or semi-trailers with tarpaulins. In addition to defining transport procedures, methods of storing logs at forest depots, and analyzing the applicable legal frameworks, we compared the characteristics, advantages, and disadvantages of road, rail, and water transport of logs. We placed special emphasis on safety, where proper weight distribution and the use of appropriate safety equipment directly affect vehicle stability and the safety of all road users. We analyzed the challenges and opportunities in log transport using the business operations of a selected micro-carrier as a case study. The analysis revealed that the key limiting factors are high fuel costs, lengthy waiting times during loading on challenging terrain, unpredictable weather conditions, a high level of driver expertise, and the coordinated operation of all logistics links, which must be capable of quickly adapting to the natural properties of the wood and on-site conditions.
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