My load got wider

Exactly right. Most of the logging truck drivers that I've known personally that got killed on the job were struck by a log coming off of the load.
There's been far too many friends lost that way.

 

I probably would have tried slipping a chain around those 2 bottom bundles and using 2 ratchet binders bring them together. Not sure it would work or not but easier than getting permits.

 

Had a load of pipe try to take me out once when I popped the binders. I dove under the trailer and got between the tires so #### fast... The guy with me thought I got crushed. It was a hap-hazard load to begin with... Old rusted out 10" irrigation mainline that had just been tossed on the trailer with no rhyme or reason. Scared the hell out of me.

 

Glad to hear you got that dangerous load off your truck man....we face enough dangers out there to worry about the LOAD killing us....dang!

 

check with MT and ID dot, most lumber producing states and provinces give annual permits to 9ft or more for "raw logs" to the mill to allow for twist and bends in the wood. usually the wood is loaded between 8 ft pegs or bunks and can have butts out 6" on either side.
if you carry 4' or 6' pegs chain them tight together before and after the first layer is on to prevent bottom spread.
2X3.5 channel with a stop welded 5" from the end works good ( if they fit in your pockets otherwise grind to fit). I used to carry 4 of each when i did flat/step but I also hauled oilfield pipe too.

 

I can relate to that.

What did they use those pecker-poles for? Firewood, fence posts maybe?