The changes being made to trucking rules in Saskatchewan are being touted as improvements by regulatory agencies and the trucking industry itself.
It was announced on Oct. 27 the wheels of the province’s export-based economy will run more smoothly as several red-tape items are being cut or brought into line with more acceptable international regulations.
The changes are being made to help protect roads from damage, even as lengths and cargo weights are being increased.
Changes to the vehicle weights and dimensions regulations include increasing the length of B Train double trailer truck combinations from 26 to 27.5 metres. The list of highways at which they they can operate at 63,500 kg. and by adding 300 kilometres to a 6,400 km. highway span that allows the larger units. The change in length of B-trains harmonizes Saskatchewan’s regulations with rules in other provinces.
“Better regulation of commercial trucking supports our economy by lowering costs, allowing more efficient movement of products across provincial borders and making exporters more competitive,” said Nancy Heppner, minister of highways and infrastructure. “Our government has helped to pave the way for these changes through significantly increasing the length of the primary weight network and harmonizing regulations with our New West Partners and across the country.”
Other changes include increasing the allowable length of aerodynamic devices attached to the back of trucks to improve fuel efficiency, reduce carbon emissions and costs. In addition, new regulations on axle weights for self-propelled equipment such as front-end loaders and wheeled backhoes are being added to clarify rules and protect highways from undue damage when this equipment is driven on the road.
“It’s a win all-around,” said Al Rosseker, Saskatchewan Trucking Association’s executive director. “It shows what positive results can be achieved when government and industry work together to bring about more efficiencies in freight transport.”
