OTTAWA, Ont. — The Canadian Trucking Alliance (CTA) is asking the National Task Force on Vehicle Weights and Dimensions (NTF) to remove the permit requirements for double drop and low bed trailers.

The CTA made its pitch during a recent presentation to the task force. Currently, double drop and low bed trailers with a wheelbase of more than 12.5 metres must move under permit and under strict conditions, meaning the trailers are built for sole purpose use.

“This proposed change will introduce productivity and efficiencies into the supply chain without compromising road safety or maintenance,” suggested CTA regional vice-president (Manitoba), Bob Dolyniuk.

The CTA proposal calls upon Canadian jurisdictions to allow the use (without permit) of tandem and tridem axle double drop and low bed trailers with a minimum wheelbase of 6.25 metres and maximum overall length of 16.15 metres. CTA said that the only time a permit should be required is when an over-dimensional load is being hauled, or if the actual trailer itself is over-dimensional.

“There is a need to increase the allowable wheelbase on these trailers to allow for an increased deck well length in an effort to accommodate farm, harvesting and construction equipment which are becoming larger,” said CTA vice-president of operations, Geoff Wood.