REGINA, Sask. –Saskatchewan continues to remove barriers for trucking companies, most recently amending its Vehicle Weight and Dimensions Regulations to allow B-trains to operate at 63,500 kgs on more roadways. The new weight limit matches that in Alberta and B.C. and adds about 1,000 kg of payload, the province announced. This will improve productivity by 2.5%.

“This is just one of many changes we’ve introduced to harmonize rules for commercial carriers across Western Canada, keeping the goals of the New West Partnership very clearly in mind,” Highways and Infrastructure Minister Jim Reiter said.

“These and other amendments are aimed not only at harmonization but at increasing the profitability of shippers and making Saskatchewan an even more competitive place to do business.”

Highways that can now accommodate 63,500 kg B-train loads include: Hwy. 6 from Regina to Melfort; Hwy. 9 from Hwy. 1 to Yorkton; Hwy. 13 from Manitoba to its junction with Hwy. 39; Hwy. 18 from Manitoba to its junction with Hwy. 39; Hwy. 39 from Hwy. 6 to Hwy. 1; and Hwy. 40 from its junction with Hwy. 4 to its junction with Hwy. 29.

Saskatchewan also has approved the use of tridem-drive trucks and truck tractors, allowing them to be used without special single-trip or term permits. And it also amended the regulations to allow the wider use of aerodynamic evices, wide-base tires, lift axles that automatically deploy and other features that lower emissions and reduce operating costs. For a complete list, visit www.highways.gov.sk.ca.