Modeling the lay-down of pipelines and subsequently the in- service conditions for a pipeline involves definition of a pipe-soil interaction model. A generalized true 3D elasto-plastic spring element based on an anisotropic hardening/degradation model for sliding is presented. The basis for the model is the elasto-plastic framework. A generic format is selected, allowing different yield criteria and flow rules to be implemented in a simple way. The model complies to a finite element format allowing it to be directly implemented into a standard finite element code. Examples demonstrating the robustness of the model are presented.