LIMITATIONS 



It might appear as though unit banding is the panacea for material handling. Like 

 anything else it has its limitations or disadvantages. 



Pattern stock . --Although some pattern stock has been banded, it generally has been 

 done on a limited or experimental basis. Where edges have been run to a pattern, 

 damage can occur from the side compression in the banding process. This occurs from 

 the difficulty in accurately matching all the layers in the unit. Also, there is a 

 tendency for these layers to become better alined as the load is vibrated in transit. 

 As this alinement occurs under pressure, the pattern work tears and the pieces come 

 together. This reduces the tension of the strapping and increases the possibility of 

 coring in the unit. 



Lot volume . --Another limitation in unit packaging becomes apparent when the 

 customer demands lot volumes not suited for unitized loads. Not only does this 

 prohibit unit handling but it relegates the difficult highly specified orders to hand 

 loading. This will probably raise hand loading costs as the proportion of flatcar 

 loaded orders increases. 



Most Montana sawmills ship highly mixed stock. In fact, some of them feel this is 

 the most important part of their sales. At times, market conditions are such that this 

 is a very strong factor in keeping the order file at a reasonable level both volumewise 

 and pricewise. 



Claim adjustment . --It was mentioned previously that banding lumber can possibly 

 reduce claims due to breakage. On the other hand, when claims are justified, a serious 

 delay can occur when the unit is wrapped. The basis for claim will not be noticed 

 lantil the wrapping is removed; this can be at deliver^' time or some months later. 



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