REGINA, Sask. –Beginning in early February, Saskatchewan has made changes that have loosened the regulatory chain on long combination vehicles (LCVs) and improved harmonization with Alberta.

Effective Feb. 1, turnpike doubles, triple-trailers and Queen City Triples can be operated at 100 km/h, up from 90 km/h, on designated four-lane highways. LCV operators no longer need to monitor speeds using tacographs or other devices. Trucking companies are still required to make a “reasonable effort” to monitor adverse weather along transport routes.

Later this year, B-train gross vehicle weights will be increased to 63,500 kgs from their current cap of 62,500 kgs.

The changes came as the Saskatchewan Ministry of Highways and Infrastructure shifted some of its regulatory components to Saskatchewan Government Insurance and also as a result of a recently-signed memorandum of understanding with the province of Alberta. The Saskatchewan Trucking Association (STA) applauded the changes.

“Our industry’s relationship with the ministry continues to grow,” said STA president, Glen Ertell. “There’s a constructive dialogue going on here and these changes show they’re listening.”

The changes were also lauded by the Alberta Motor Transport Association and Manitoba Trucking Association. The western provinces are seeking to harmonize LCV regulations across the Prairies.