Trucking weights were not increased in the Southwest during the inaugural list of winter weights which were approved today by the Saskatchewan Ministry of Highways and Infrastructure.
Winter weights were introduced for the Kindersley/Rosetown, the Yorkton/Melville, plus the Weyburn region, and will take effect at 12:01 a.m. on Thursday, November 16. A full list of roads impacted by the winter weight season can be found on the Highway Hotline or Saskatchewan Ministry of Highways and Infrastructure website.
Winter weights are weather-dependent, typically beginning mid-November and are traditionally in effect before removed around March 15. As in the past, when temperatures rise and roadbeds remain soft, the ministry may remove winter weights in some areas. Commercial truckers and shippers are encouraged to check the status regularly at www.saskatchewan.ca/truckingweights.
“With Saskatchewan’s export-based economy, trucking plays a major role in getting our goods to port,” Highways and Infrastructure Minister David Marit stated in a press release. “Winter weights season allows shippers to haul heavier loads during colder winter months, resulting in fewer trips and cost savings for the industry.”
When a roadbed is frozen, secondary weight highways contain the same strength as primary weight highways, which supports the heaviest legal loads on Saskatchewan roads. Shippers using secondary weight highways benefit the most because this allows efficient movement from secondary to primary weight highways.
For technical and regulatory information, commercial carriers can contact the Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Inquiry Line weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at 1-866-933-5290.
